Caribbean Pineapple Fried Rice

Name: Caribbean Pineapple Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp coconut oil; 1 cup diced pineapple; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups cooked jasmine rice; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp jerk seasoning; 1 cup cooked shrimp; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 lime, cut into wedges

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 15 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Caribbean Pineapple Fried Rice is a vibrant dish that brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table. It's a delightful fusion of sweet and savory, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal with friends.

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Ingredients for Caribbean Pineapple Fried Rice

Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical aroma, enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile. Pineapple is the star, providing sweetness and a juicy contrast to the spices. Red bell pepper adds crunch and a splash of color, while onion and garlic offer depth and a savory base. Jasmine rice is ideal for its fragrant, floral notes. Soy sauce brings umami, and jerk seasoning adds a kick of Caribbean heat. Shrimp provides protein and a sea-inspired flavor, while green onions and cilantro offer fresh, bright finishes. Finally, lime wedges are perfect for a zesty, citrusy squeeze before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Use day-old rice for the best texture; freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
Caramelizing the pineapple intensifies its sweetness and flavor, so be patient during this step.
Jerk seasoning can vary in heat, so adjust to your taste preferences.
If you prefer, swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp salad on the side. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled jerk chicken or fish to complement the flavors. A chilled tropical drink or a glass of white wine can also make a perfect accompaniment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?: Yes, but fresh pineapple is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?: Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp or replace it with tofu or more vegetables.
What can I use instead of jasmine rice?: Basmati rice or long-grain white rice can also work well in this dish.
How spicy is this dish?: The spice level depends on the jerk seasoning. Adjust according to your preference.

Caribbean Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced pineapple. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is caramelized and golden brown, about 5 minutes. This step really brings out its sweetness.

Next, toss in the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still vibrant in color.

Now, it's time to add the cooked jasmine rice. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle over the jerk seasoning. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and spices. This is where the magic happens and everything comes together.

Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and continue to cook for about 3 minutes, just until the shrimp is heated through. Remove the pan from heat and garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro.

Serve the fried rice hot, with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
A delightful mix of sweet pineapple and savory spices.
Uses simple, fresh ingredients for an authentic taste.
Customizable with your favorite protein or vegetables.

Ingredients

2 tbsp coconut oil

1 cup diced pineapple

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups cooked jasmine rice

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp jerk seasoning

1 cup cooked shrimp

2 green onions, sliced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add diced pineapple and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in bell pepper, onion, and garlic, cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.

4. Add cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce, and jerk seasoning; mix well to combine.

5. Stir in cooked shrimp and continue to cook until heated through, approximately 3 minutes.