As the sun dips below the horizon, the aroma of sizzling ham and sweet pineapple wafts through the kitchen, transporting me straight to a tropical paradise. My Hawaiian Fried Rice recipe brings together savory ham, vibrant veggies, and juicy pineapple for a quick and easy dinner that feels like a vacation on your plate. This dish is not only a delightful escape from fast food, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests—who wouldn’t want a colorful, fun meal that takes just minutes to prepare? Ready to dive into this delicious adventure and discover how to make the most of your next dinner? Let’s get cooking! Why is Hawaiian Fried Rice Awesome? Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it a fantastic solution for hectic evenings when you crave something homemade but don’t have much time. Bursting with Flavor: The delightful mix of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and fresh veggies creates a harmonious taste that dances on your palate. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite! Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out the ham for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein! You can even make a low-carb version using quinoa or cauliflower rice. Colorful Presentation: Who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes? The vibrant colors of this fried rice will brighten up your table and impress your guests. Crowd-Pleaser: This Hawaiian Fried Rice is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it up as a main dish or a side, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Aloha!” Try pairing it with Hawaiian Roll French for an unforgettable meal! Hawaiian Fried Rice Ingredients For the Rice • Cooked Rice – 2 cups, preferably day-old; provides the necessary base and texture for the dish. For the Protein • Ham – 1/2 lb, diced; adds savory depth and protein. Can be substituted with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. For the Sweetness • Pineapple Chunks – 1 cup; introduces sweetness and a tropical flavor. Fresh or canned can be used. • Pineapple Juice – 1/2 cup; enhances the sauce with sweetness and acidity. Fresh juice is preferable, but bottled works as well. • Brown Sugar – 1 tablespoon; boosts the sweetness of the sauce. Coconut sugar can be used as an alternative. For the Vegetables • Peas – 1/2 cup; adds color and nutrition. Substitute with green beans if desired. • Carrots – 1/2 cup, diced; provides sweetness and crunch. Frozen peas and carrots can be used for convenience. • Green Onions – 1/4 cup, sliced; offers a fresh, mild onion flavor. Can be replaced with chives or omitted. For the Seasoning • Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons; supplies umami flavor and seasoning. Use tamari for a gluten-free version. • Sesame Oil – 1 tablespoon; enhances the dish with nuttiness. Substitutable with vegetable oil if necessary. • Salt and Pepper – to taste; essential for seasoning. Adjust based on personal preference. For the Binding • Eggs – 2, lightly beaten; adds richness and binds the ingredients. For a vegan version, use scrambled tofu. • Cornstarch – 1 teaspoon, dissolved in 2 teaspoons water; thickens the sauce. Ensure it is fully dissolved before adding to the pan. For the Sauce • Ketchup – 1/4 cup; contributes tanginess and sweetness to the sauce. Can be replaced with chili sauce for a spicier kick. • Rice Vinegar – 1 tablespoon; adds acidity to balance flavors. Substitutable with apple cider vinegar. Dive into this delightful Hawaiian Fried Rice and let the flavors whisk you away to a tropical paradise! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Fried Rice Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the tablespoon of sesame oil, allowing it to coat the bottom of the pan. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers slightly. This step will create a fragrant base for your Hawaiian Fried Rice. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Ham Add the diced ham, carrots, and peas to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the carrots are tender and the ham starts to brown slightly. Keep everything moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and maximize flavor. The vibrant colors will make your dish pop! Step 3: Scramble the Eggs Push the sautéed ingredients to the side of the skillet, creating a space in the center. Pour the beaten eggs into this empty space and let them cook for about a minute before scrambling them with a spatula. Cook until they are just set and mix everything together well, incorporating the eggs into the Hawaiian Fried Rice. Step 4: Add Rice and Pineapple Next, add the day-old rice and pineapple chunks to the skillet, breaking up any clumps of rice with your spatula. Pour in the soy sauce, and stir-fry the mixture for 5-7 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through. The pineapple will add a sweet tropical touch, brightening your fried rice. Step 5: Prepare the Sauce In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture until it starts to simmer, then add the cornstarch dissolved in water, mixing continuously. Cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens, and you achieve a glossy texture, perfect for drizzling over your completed Hawaiian Fried Rice. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Once the fried rice is well-mixed and hot, serve it promptly in bowls. Drizzle the thick sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. The vibrant Hawaiian Fried Rice is best enjoyed while hot, letting its sweet and savory flavors transport you straight to a tropical paradise. How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Fried Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, make sure the rice cools before sealing it. Freezer: Place cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portioning it into smaller servings makes reheating easier. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Hawaiian Fried Rice again, reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if needed. Room Temperature: If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety. After that, refrigerate or freeze the leftovers for best quality. What to Serve with Hawaiian Fried Rice Enhance your tropical dinner experience with delicious pairings that elevate every bite and whisk you away to a paradise of flavors. Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Juicy grilled pineapple adds an extra touch of sweetness and complements the tropical vibe of the fried rice. Drizzle with honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful twist. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights filled with fresh veggies and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce provide a fantastic contrast in texture, making your meal even more exciting. Thai Cucumber Salad: The refreshing cucumber salad, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, brings a crisp, cool balance to the savory fried rice, while adding a burst of vibrant color. Teriyaki Chicken: Tender chicken glazed with a rich teriyaki sauce complements the sweet and savory notes of the fried rice perfectly. It’s a heartier option that will satisfy the hungriest of appetites. Mango Smoothie: A creamy, tropical mango smoothie not only acts as a refreshing beverage but also ties in the fruity elements of your meal to create a complete dining experience. Coconut Lime Sorbet: A light dessert with a burst of citrus and coconut that cleanses the palate after the savory meal, offering a sweet ending reminiscent of a sunny day on the beach. Sparkling Water with Lime: For those seeking something bubbly, a glass of sparkling water with fresh lime slices provides a refreshing drink option that complements the vibrant flavors of the dish without overpowering it. Hawaiian Fried Rice Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Hawaiian Fried Rice by customizing it to match your family’s preferences and dietary needs! Protein Swap: Change the ham to cooked chicken or shrimp for a delightful twist. This variation offers different textures and flavors to savor. Plant-Based Option: Use scrambled tofu instead of eggs to create a vegan Hawaiian Fried Rice. It’s a wonderful way to keep that satisfying creaminess! Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute traditional rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice. These swaps provide a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor. Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or even broccoli for added color and nutrition. The more, the merrier—each bite will be a delicious explosion of flavors! Spice it Up: If you crave some heat, add a dash of chili sauce or sriracha to the mix. It’ll elevate the flavor profile to a fiery new level! Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a naturally sweeter, unique twist that’s also soy-free. Different Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for honey or agave syrup if you prefer a different kind of sweetness in your sauce. It will give your Hawaiian Fried Rice its own unique flair. Zesty Finishing Touch: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving. This brightens up the dish and gives it an exciting finish! For additional meal ideas, why not pair your Hawaiian Fried Rice with Cheesy Hamburger Rice or some delightful Fourth of July Rice Krispie Treats? Enjoy your culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, making your busy weeknights a breeze. To do this, simply chop the vegetables and cube the ham, then refrigerate them in airtight containers. You can also cook the rice a day ahead and store it in the fridge to enhance the texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just stir-fry everything as instructed, adding the eggs and sauce at the end for that fresh, delicious flavor. This way, your Hawaiian Fried Rice will be just as delightful, with minimal effort when you’re short on time! Expert Tips for Hawaiian Fried Rice Choose Day-Old Rice: Using rice that’s been cooked and chilled overnight helps prevent clumping and achieves that perfect fried rice texture. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and pineapple will elevate your dish, giving it vibrant colors and flavors. Canned options can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the freshness. Don’t Overcook the Eggs: Scramble the eggs in the center of the skillet until just set. Overcooking can make them rubbery; tenderness is key for a deliciously creamy bite! Balance the Sauce: Adjust sweetness and savoriness according to your taste. If it’s too sweet, a splash more soy sauce can do wonders in achieving perfect Hawaiian Fried Rice flavor. Customize Protein Options: Don’t hesitate to switch out the ham for chicken, shrimp, or tofu based on your dietary needs. This recipe is versatile and caters to many preferences! Prep Ahead: For even quicker meals, chop your vegetables and proteins in advance. Having everything ready to go can cut cooking time significantly during busy weeknights. Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe FAQs What type of rice is best for Hawaiian Fried Rice? Using day-old rice is highly recommended as it has dried out slightly, preventing clumping and giving your dish the perfect texture. If you don’t have any cooked rice on hand, simply cook some fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet, and let it cool for about 30 minutes before using it in your recipe. How should I store leftover Hawaiian Fried Rice? Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the rice fresh, allow it to cool completely before sealing it. If you’re not planning to eat it soon, it’s best to freeze it. Can I freeze Hawaiian Fried Rice? Absolutely! To freeze Hawaiian Fried Rice, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For easier reheating, portion it into smaller servings before freezing. What should I do if my fried rice is too sticky? If your Hawaiian Fried Rice turns out overly sticky, try using day-old rice next time, as freshly cooked rice tends to have a higher moisture content. Additionally, ensure you’re using enough oil in the pan when cooking, and avoid overcrowding it with ingredients, which can release excess moisture. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? When making Hawaiian Fried Rice, consider that it contains soy sauce, which contains gluten unless you choose a gluten-free alternative like tamari. If you’re cooking for those with egg allergies, you can substitute the eggs for scrambled tofu or omit them entirely for a delicious vegan option. How long can I keep Hawaiian Fried Rice at room temperature? To ensure food safety, you should consume Hawaiian Fried Rice if left out at room temperature within 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze any leftovers to maintain quality and safety. Tropical Hawaiian Fried Rice for Quick, Flavorful Dinners This Hawaiian Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful dinner option bursting with tropical flavors, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice2 cups Cooked Rice preferably day-oldFor the Protein1/2 lb Ham diced; can be substituted with cooked chicken or tofuFor the Sweetness1 cup Pineapple Chunks fresh or canned1/2 cup Pineapple Juice preferably fresh1 tablespoon Brown Sugar can substitute with coconut sugarFor the Vegetables1/2 cup Peas or substitute with green beans1/2 cup Carrots diced; frozen peas and carrots can be used1/4 cup Green Onions sliced; optional replacement with chivesFor the Seasoning2 tablespoons Soy Sauce or tamari for gluten-free1 tablespoon Sesame Oil or substitute with vegetable oilSalt and Pepper to tasteFor the Binding2 Eggs lightly beaten; can use scrambled tofu for vegan1 teaspoon Cornstarch dissolved in 2 teaspoons waterFor the Sauce1/4 cup Ketchup or chili sauce for a spicier kick1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar or substitute with apple cider vinegar Equipment Large skillet or wok Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Fried RiceBegin by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the tablespoon of sesame oil, allowing it to coat the bottom of the pan.Add the diced ham, carrots, and peas to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the carrots are tender and the ham starts to brown slightly.Push the sautéed ingredients to the side of the skillet, creating a space in the center. Pour the beaten eggs into this empty space and let them cook for about a minute before scrambling them with a spatula.Next, add the day-old rice and pineapple chunks to the skillet, breaking up any clumps of rice with your spatula. Pour in the soy sauce, and stir-fry the mixture for 5-7 minutes.In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture until it starts to simmer, then add the cornstarch dissolved in water.Once the fried rice is well-mixed and hot, serve it promptly in bowls. Drizzle the thick sauce over the top or serve it on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 14gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesUsing day-old rice helps prevent clumping and achieves that perfect fried rice texture. Customize protein options as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
