Delicious Vegetarian Pineapple Fried Rice

This Vegetarian Pineapple Fried Rice brings together the sweetness of fresh pineapple, the vibrant crunch of assorted vegetables, and the satisfying texture of fluffy rice for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. It is designed to be both nourishing and easy to adapt, making it a reliable go-to recipe when you want something colorful and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first made this during a weeknight when I had leftover rice and ended up loving how quickly it all came together. Now it is often requested by my family as a vibrant alternative to usual fried rice.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Two cups cooked rice: from the day before for the best texture and less clumping
• One cup fresh pineapple: which adds natural sweetness & canned pineapple drained can be used in a pinch
• One cup diced bell pepper: for color and a fresh crunch & choose firm and brightly colored peppers
• One medium carrot: sliced thinly to cook quickly and add a subtle earthiness
• One cup frozen peas: perfect for convenience and adding a pop of green
• One cup firm tofu: for plant-based protein & press and cube for best texture, optional but recommended
• Two tablespoons soy sauce or tamari: for its salty depth & tamari works well for gluten-free needs
• One tablespoon sesame oil: which infuses the rice with rich, nutty flavor
• One tablespoon maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar: to enhance sweetness, optional and adjustable depending on your pineapple’s sweetness

How to Make It

Prep the Rice:

Spread cooked rice on a baking sheet and cool it in the fridge for about thirty minutes. This step ensures the grains separate well and avoids mushiness when stir-fried.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Heat one to two tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper, thin carrot slices, and peas. Stir-fry gently for five to seven minutes until the vegetables soften but are still crisp. This builds a fresh base for your fried rice.

Mix in Pineapple and Sauce:

Add the chopped pineapple and pour in soy sauce or tamari. Stir thoroughly and cook for three to four minutes allowing the pineapple’s sweetness to meld with the savory sauce. This creates a delicious balance of flavors.

Incorporate the Rice:

Gently fold the chilled rice into the skillet. Stir-fry for five to six minutes, ensuring the rice is heated evenly and coated nicely with the sauce and vegetable mixture. Be patient and avoid stirring too aggressively to keep the rice fluffy.

Garnish and Serve:

Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish and add any optional toppings you like such as chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds. Serve while hot to enjoy the full flavors and textures.

I adore the crunch and bright flavor the bell peppers bring to this dish. One memorable time I made it for a potluck and everyone kept going back for seconds because the pineapple gave it such a refreshing twist.

Flavor Boosters

Serve with a side of steamed greens or a crisp Asian-inspired salad. Add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for an extra kick and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Try swapping pineapple for mango or peach for a different fruity sweetness. You can replace tofu with tempeh or edamame for a different protein texture.

Creative Twists

Pineapple fried rice is a popular variation in Southeast Asian cuisine, notably Thai, where the pineapple's natural sweetness balances spicy and savory notes. Using fresh produce and plant-based protein aligns with contemporary vegetarian trends.

This recipe is a colorful, flavorful vegetarian staple that can adapt easily to your pantry and preferences.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Day-old cooked rice is ideal as it prevents clumping and gives a fluffier texture when stir-fried.

→ Can I substitute tofu with another protein?

Yes, feel free to use tempeh, chickpeas, or even scrambled eggs for added protein.

→ How can I add more color and crunch to the vegetables?

Including bell peppers, carrots, and peas adds freshness and textural contrast to the meal.

→ Is canned pineapple suitable for this dish?

Canned pineapple works well if drained thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the stir-fry.

→ What alternatives can I use for soy sauce?

Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that maintains the savory umami flavor.