As soon as I smell the enticing blend of savory ham and sweet pineapple sizzling in the skillet, I’m whisked away to my favorite beachside escape. This Tropical Hawaiian Fried Rice has a way of capturing that carefree spirit, transforming any meal into a mini holiday. You see, it all began when I was on the hunt for something different after a week filled with fast-food dinners. I found this delightful recipe hidden among my old cookbooks and knew I had to give it a try.
This colorful dish marries fresh veggies and ham, all elevated by a glossy, sweet and tangy sauce. Not only is it easy to whip up during those busy weeknights, but it’s also a fantastic way to impress guests at your next gathering. Plus, it’s dairy-free, making it a hit for everyone at the table! So, let’s dive into this simple yet exotic recipe that will surely bring warmth, joy, and a taste of the tropics to your dinner table!
Why is Hawaiian Fried Rice so irresistible?
Tropical flavors come alive in every bite with this dish, infusing your palate with sweet pineapple and savory ham. Quick preparation means it’s weeknight-friendly, allowing you to enjoy this culinary getaway without fuss. Colorful veggies add not just nutrition but vibrant aesthetics, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Versatile and adaptable, you can easily swap proteins or add extra ingredients to suit your cravings. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo! If you’re in the mood for more delicious variations, check out our suggestions on customizing your fried rice experience.
Hawaiian Fried Rice Ingredients
For the Base
• Rice — 2 cups cooked, preferably day-old; it absorbs flavors better and prevents sogginess.
• Ham — 1/2 lb, diced; adds a savory meat flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple.
• Pineapple Chunks — 1 cup; contributes a sweet tropical flair, whether using canned or fresh.
• Peas — 1/2 cup; adds color and texture, but feel free to swap with green beans or corn.
• Carrots — 1/2 cup, diced; offers crunch and sweetness, or substitute with bell peppers for a different taste.
• Green Onions — 1/4 cup, sliced; provides freshness and a mild onion flavor; chives work too!
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce — 2 tablespoons; enhances umami flavor, with low-sodium varieties being a great option.
• Sesame Oil — 1 tablespoon; adds a nutty flavor; olive oil can substitute if needed.
• Pineapple Juice — 1/2 cup; sweetener for the sauce—orange juice is a great alternative for a unique note.
• Ketchup — 1/4 cup; imparts sweetness and slight acidity; try coconut aminos for a different flavor.
• Rice Vinegar — 1 tablespoon; adds tang; apple cider vinegar serves as a suitable substitute.
• Brown Sugar — 1 tablespoon; balances flavors nicely, or replace it with honey or agave syrup.
• Cornstarch — 1 teaspoon, dissolved in 2 teaspoons water; thickens the sauce for a delightful texture.
For Cooking
• Eggs — 2, lightly beaten; acts as a binder and provides protein; omit for a fully plant-based option.
• Salt and Pepper — to taste; elevate the overall flavor profile of your dish.
How to Make Hawaiian Fried Rice
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Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and swirl it around to coat the surface evenly. -
Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Toss in the diced ham, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant, soaking up those wonderful flavors. -
Scramble the Eggs:
Push the ham and vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the center and scramble until fully cooked, about 1-2 minutes. -
Combine the Base Ingredients:
Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and sliced green onions to the skillet. Drizzle everything generously with soy sauce, mixing well to combine. -
Stir-Fry It All Together:
Stir-fry everything together for 5-7 minutes, allowing all ingredients to heat through and blend beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Make the Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, mix together pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch mixture until thickened. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Hawaiian Fried Rice hot, drizzled with the sweet sauce or on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired for a pop of color!
Optional: Drizzle with extra pineapple juice for an added tropical flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Fried Rice
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Hawaiian Fried Rice fresh and ready to enjoy anytime.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions in tightly sealed bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or more soy sauce to restore moisture if needed.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Hawaiian Fried Rice out for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness. Enjoy it hot and fresh!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Fried Rice?
Elevate your meal by pairing this vibrant dish with delightful sides that complement its tropical flavors.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These savory rolls add crunch and a delightful contrast to the fluffy rice, making for a satisfying bite.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh pineapple, mango, and coconut complements the sweetness of the fried rice, enhancing the tropical theme.
- Green Salad with Citrus Dressing: A refreshing salad with a zesty dressing adds brightness and balances the richness of the fried rice.
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: The sweet and savory chicken matches the flavors of the fried rice, creating a harmonious meal that guests will love.
- Coconut Water: Serve with ice-cold coconut water for a refreshing drink that echoes the tropical notes in the dish.
- Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet cleanses the palate after the savory meal, perfect for a summery finish.
These pairings elevate your dining experience, making your Hawaiian Fried Rice dinner a delightful affair bursting with flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Fried Rice bowls are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the vegetables (carrots, peas, and green onions) and diced ham up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The cooked rice can also be made ahead and refrigerated overnight, ensuring that it’s ready for a quick stir-fry. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just heat the skillet, add your prepped ingredients, and follow the remaining steps to combine with the sauce. This way, you’ll have delicious Hawaiian Fried Rice on the table in no time, saving you precious minutes during busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: Ensure your rice is cooked a day prior. This helps achieve a firmer texture, preventing your Hawaiian Fried Rice from becoming mushy.
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Pre-Cook Ingredients: Cook all ingredients except for rice before combining. This way, you avoid overcooking veggies and keep their vibrant colors.
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Customize the Sweetness: Balance the sauce’s sweetness and acidity to match your taste. If you prefer a lighter touch, reduce the ketchup or increase the vinegar.
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Experiment with Proteins: Don’t hesitate to swap the ham with shrimp or diced chicken. This variation can give your Hawaiian Fried Rice a unique twist!
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables and ripe pineapple enhances the dish’s flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients to make each bite a delight.
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Rest the Dish: Let your fried rice rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
Hawaiian Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan eggs or omit them entirely for a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
- Protein Swap: Ditch the ham and try diced chicken or shrimp instead for a delightful twist that preserves the dish’s heartiness.
- Fruity Addition: Add diced mango along with or instead of pineapple for a tropical flair that’s both sweet and unique.
- Heat It Up: Toss in crushed red pepper or chopped jalapeños to ramp up the spice; it will bring an exciting kick!
- Vegetable Boost: Sneak in bell peppers or snap peas for an extra crunch and more color, making your dish even more vibrant.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative, ensuring everyone can relish the flavors.
- Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted cashews or peanuts on top before serving to add extra texture and a delightful nutty lift.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance freshness by finishing with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or basil; this adds another layer of aromatic flavor!
Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for Hawaiian Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is best for frying. It’s drier and firmer, ensuring that it won’t turn mushy during cooking. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry for about 30 minutes before using it in the recipe.
How long can leftovers of Hawaiian Fried Rice be stored?
You can refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it down before putting it in the fridge, and be mindful of reheating it thoroughly to ensure safety!
Can I freeze Hawaiian Fried Rice?
Yes, you can! For proper freezing, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags or containers. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
What if my Hawaiian Fried Rice is too sticky?
Very! If you encounter a sticky situation, it’s often due to too much moisture in the rice. For the next time, ensure to use day-old rice, and avoid using freshly cooked rice directly. If it’s still too sticky, you can try adding a bit of oil or sesame oil while reheating to help loosen it up.
Is this dish suitable for my vegetarian or dairy-free friends?
Certainly! This Hawaiian Fried Rice is already dairy-free, and you can easily make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting ham with tofu or leaving it out entirely. Just add extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to amp up the dish!
What if I have allergies to certain ingredients?
It’s important to customize the Hawaiian Fried Rice to suit your dietary needs. For soy allergies, consider using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. You could also replace eggs with scrambled tofu for a vegan option, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tropical delight!
Tasty Hawaiian Fried Rice: A Sweet Tropical Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and swirl it around to coat the surface evenly.
- Toss in the diced ham, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
- Push the ham and vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the center and scramble until fully cooked.
- Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and sliced green onions to the skillet. Drizzle with soy sauce and mix well.
- Stir-fry everything together for 5-7 minutes, allowing all ingredients to heat through. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a separate saucepan, mix together pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch mixture until thickened.
- Serve the Hawaiian Fried Rice hot, drizzled with the sweet sauce or on the side.
