Tropical Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful twist on the classic, blending sweet and savory flavors with a hint of the exotic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch, it combines fresh ingredients that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-drenched beach.
Shrimp are the protein stars here, providing a juicy, tender bite that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. Vegetable oil is used for frying, giving a neutral base that doesn’t overpower the dish.
Salt and black pepper season the shrimp, enhancing its natural flavors. Onion and garlic bring a savory depth, while red bell pepper adds color and a slight crunch.
Pineapple chunks are the sweet element, balancing the savory notes with their natural sugars. Jasmine rice, with its fragrant aroma, serves as the comforting base of the dish.
Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, while soy sauce brings umami depth. Sesame oil finishes the dish with its nutty aroma.
Green onions and cilantro are fresh garnishes that lift the dish with their bright flavors, and lime wedges add a zesty, tangy finish when squeezed over the top.
Pair this dish with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. A side of steamed vegetables can also complement the rich flavors, adding more nutrients to your meal.
Start by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook them until they're pink and opaque, which should take about three minutes. Once done, scoop them out and set them aside for later.
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté until they're fragrant, about two minutes. Next, add the chopped red bell pepper and pineapple chunks, cooking until the bell pepper softens slightly, roughly three minutes.
Now, stir in the cooked jasmine rice, followed by the coconut milk, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors combine evenly. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together and cooking for another two minutes until all the ingredients are heated through.
Finish by removing the skillet from the heat. Garnish your masterpiece with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side, ready for squeezing.