Name: Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 4-5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled); 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen); 1 red bell pepper (diced); 3/4 cup green peas (frozen & thawed in hot water); 1 cup purple cabbage (shredded); 1/2 red onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tbsp tamari; 1.5 tbsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 3/4 tsp hot sauce or red chili flakes; 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional); Fresh cilantro (to taste); Scallions (to taste); Sesame seeds (to taste); Fresh lime (for squeezing)

Introduction

This vegan pineapple fried rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Loaded with colorful veggies, sweet pineapple, and a savory tamari-based sauce, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. The caramelized pineapple adds a delightful twist to traditional fried rice.

A white bowl filled with a colorful mixed rice dish sits on a white marbled surface. The dish has several layers starting with cooked brown rice as the base, mixed with bright green peas and bits of grilled orange-yellow pineapple. Red bell peppers and purple cabbage pieces add vibrant color, scattered throughout the rice. Thinly sliced green onions are sprinkled on top, along with black sesame seeds giving extra texture. Fresh green cilantro leaves and a lime wedge resting on the side of the bowl complete the look, with a soft blue and white striped cloth partially visible beneath the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4-5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled)

2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)

1 red bell pepper (diced)

3/4 cup green peas (frozen & thawed in hot water)

1 cup purple cabbage (shredded)

1/2 red onion (diced)

3 cloves garlic (minced)

3 tbsp tamari

1.5 tbsp maple syrup

1/2 tsp garlic powder

3/4 tsp hot sauce or red chili flakes

1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, garlic powder, hot sauce (or chili flakes), and ground ginger if using; set this stir-fry sauce aside.

Step 2: Heat a well-seasoned cast iron skillet over high heat. Quickly stir-fry the pineapple chunks until they develop a slight caramelization, then transfer them to a bowl. If you don’t have a seasoned skillet, use any skillet with a drizzle of sesame oil or a splash of water.

Step 3: Add diced red bell pepper and red onion to the hot skillet. Stir rapidly until they start to brown slightly. If the pan gets too hot or ingredients stick, add a splash of water. Remove the veggies and combine them with the pineapple.

Step 4: In the same skillet, add shredded purple cabbage and stir-fry for about a minute until it wilts. Push the cabbage to the side, add a drop of oil or water (for oil-free diets), then add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, stirring quickly to avoid burning.

Step 5: Add the cooked, chilled rice and green peas to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together. Remove from heat, then gently fold in the reserved pineapple, pepper, and onion mixture.

Step 6: Garnish with fresh cilantro, scallions, and sesame seeds. Serve with a fresh squeeze of lime for extra brightness and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice for better texture; freshly cooked rice can be too soft and sticky.

For a nuttier flavor, toast the sesame seeds before adding them as a garnish.

Feel free to add tofu or your favorite plant-based protein for extra substance.

Adjust the heat level by using more or less hot sauce or chili flakes according to your taste.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, white rice works well too. Just make sure it is cooked and chilled to prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.

Is it necessary to chill the rice before cooking?

Chilling the rice helps to dry it out slightly, which prevents clumping and gives a better texture when stir-fried.

Dinner

Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe