There’s something undeniably magical about a plate of Hawaiian Fried Rice. Imagine the sweet aroma of pineapple mingling with savory soy sauce, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies. Each bite is like a mini-vacation to the islands, making you feel like you’re lounging on a sunny beach while sipping a tropical drink. If only cooking it could be as easy as dreaming about it! For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I tried Hawaiian Fried Rice at a friend’s backyard barbecue. The combination of flavors danced on my palate, and I knew I had to recreate that blissful experience at home. With summer parties and family gatherings fast approaching, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hawaiian Fried Rice is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
- Its delightful flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements that will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The colorful presentation makes it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy
- Versatile enough to include your favorite proteins or veggies, this dish can easily adapt to suit any taste preference
I served this dish during a family reunion, and the delighted smiles were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cooked Jasmine Rice: Day-old rice works best; it’s drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
Pineapple Chunks: Use fresh pineapple for a juicy burst of sweetness that elevates the dish.
Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color; don’t skimp on them!
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A quick way to get your veggies in! Choose those without added sauces.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still delivering umami goodness.
Eggs: They bring richness and protein; scrambled eggs add lovely texture.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle enhances the nuttiness of the dish—use it sparingly for maximum impact.
Protein of Choice (Shrimp, Chicken, etc.): Feel free to customize based on preferences; cooked leftovers work great here!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hawaiian Fried Rice
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients before you start cooking to ensure smooth sailing through your culinary adventure. Chop green onions, dice any desired protein, and have everything within reach.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add sesame oil. Once shimmering, toss in green onions until fragrant but not burnt—around 30 seconds should do it!
Add in the Veggies: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables and pineapple chunks. Cook until the vegetables are heated through and vibrant in color—about 3-5 minutes should suffice.
Incorporate the Rice: Add cooked jasmine rice into the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir well until everything is combined and heated thoroughly—around 4-5 minutes will make it nice and warm.
Scramble Those Eggs: Push all ingredients to one side of the pan; crack eggs into the empty space. Scramble them until just set before folding everything together for even distribution.
Add Soy Sauce & Seasoning: Drizzle soy sauce over your masterpiece while tossing everything together evenly. Adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or sesame oil according to your taste preference!
Now you have reached culinary bliss! Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite of your Hawaiian Fried Rice creation!
You Must Know
- Hawaiian Fried Rice is a delightful blend of flavors
- Feel free to use leftover rice; it enhances texture and prevents mushiness
- The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing, great for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing vegetables first, then add cooked rice to absorb their flavors. Finally, incorporate proteins and sauces for a harmonious blend.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping traditional veggies for pineapple or adding shrimp instead of chicken. These changes can create exciting flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture; it prevents clumping and makes frying easier
- Sauté your vegetables until they are just tender but still vibrant to add crunch
- Don’t skip on the soy sauce; it adds depth and umami flavor that balances sweet and savory notes
I once made Hawaiian Fried Rice for a friend’s potluck, and everyone raved about the flavors! It became my go-to recipe when I want to impress without too much effort.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Hawaiian Fried Rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How can I make Hawaiian Fried Rice vegetarian?
Simply omit meat and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein without losing flavor.
What is the best way to reheat leftover Hawaiian Fried Rice?
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out while warming.
Hawaiian Fried Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Escape to the tropics with this vibrant Hawaiian Fried Rice. This quick and easy dish combines sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and colorful veggies for a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. With its irresistible flavor profile and stunning presentation, this recipe will have your guests coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old preferred)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh)
- 4 green onions (chopped)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 cup protein of choice (shrimp, chicken, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping green onions and dicing protein.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté green onions for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables and pineapple chunks. Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in cooked jasmine rice, breaking up clumps, and heat for another 4-5 minutes.
- Push the mixture to one side of the pan, crack in eggs, scramble them until just set, then mix everything together.
- Drizzle soy sauce over the rice mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
