Easy Thai Pineapple Fried Rice in 30 Minutes

Thai pineapple fried rice is a quick and flavorful dish made with fresh pineapple, shrimp, and aromatic spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this authentic recipe is easy and served in a pineapple boat for a tropical presentation. Perfect for an easy, impressive meal!

This authentic Thai pineapple fried rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish made with fresh pineapple, shrimp, and aromatic seasonings like fish sauce, oyster sauce, curry powder, and turmeric. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes this dish irresistible.

One of the standout features of this recipe is its presentation. Serving the fried rice in a pineapple boat not only adds a festive, tropical touch but also makes it a show-stopping dish perfect for parties or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a Southeast Asian cuisine night or looking for something unique for a tropical-themed gathering, this dish will impress your guests.

What sets this recipe apart is the optional topping of Pork floss. This sweet and salty shredded pork adds crunch and depth of flavor, inspired by the best pineapple fried rice I enjoyed at a Thai restaurant in Hong Kong. While optional, it’s highly recommended for an authentic touch!

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for using leftover rice, and it comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Thai pineapple fried rice recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to become a favorite.

If you love exploring Southeast Asian fried rice dishes, you might also enjoy my recipe for Nasi Goreng, a classic Indonesian fried rice packed with bold flavors.

What Makes Thai Pineapple Fried Rice Unique?

Thai pineapple fried rice stands out for its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors. The combination of fresh pineapple, shrimp, and bold seasonings like fish sauce and curry powder creates a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting. Its signature presentation in a pineapple boat adds a fun, festive touch, making it a show-stopper for any occasion.

Ingredient List for Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

• Fresh pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and a tropical twist. Fresh is best for flavor and juiciness.
• Day-old rice: Best for fried rice to avoid clumping.
• Shrimp: Juicy and tender, it pairs perfectly with the sweet pineapple.
• Fish sauce and oyster sauce: These staples of Thai cuisine provide the rich umami base for the dish.
• Curry powder and turmeric: Give the rice its signature golden color and warm, aromatic flavor.
• Pork floss (optional): A sweet and salty topping that adds crunch and an authentic Thai-inspired touch.

Tips on Selecting Fresh Pineapple

Using fresh pineapple is essential for the best Thai pineapple fried rice, as it adds natural sweetness and juiciness to the dish. Here’s how to choose the perfect pineapple:

• Check the Color: Look for a pineapple with bright yellow skin at the base. A green pineapple may not be fully ripe, while overly brown spots could indicate it’s past its prime.
• Smell the Base: A ripe pineapple has a sweet, tropical aroma at the base. If it smells sour or fermented, it’s likely overripe.
• Feel the Texture: The pineapple should feel firm but give slightly when pressed. Avoid ones that are too hard or have soft spots.
• Examine the Leaves: The leaves of a fresh pineapple should be green and vibrant. If the tips are brown or dry, the pineapple may not be at its best.

For more fresh pineapple recipe idea, check out my pineapple salad with cucumber. It’s light and refreshingly delicious!

How to make Thai Pineapple Fried rice

Step 1. Prepare pineapple: Cut a fresh pineapple in half lengthwise. Scoop out the fruit and leave a hollow space in the middle — this will be our vessel for the fried rice. Dice the pineapple fruit into 1/2 inch chunks and reserve 1 cup.

Step 2. Make the fried rice sauce: Mix fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, curry powder, and turmeric powder in a small bowl; set aside.

Step 3. Stir-fry aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the shallot, garlic, ginger, and chili, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp, green onion, and red pepper to the wok. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through.

Step 5. Add Rice and Peas: Add the rice and peas to the wok, tossing to break up any clumps of rice. If the mixture seems dry, drizzle in an additional tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and evenly heated.

Step 6. Combine and Add the Sauce: Drizzle the sauce evenly over the rice mixture while tossing everything together to ensure the ingredients are well-coated, and the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Step 7. Add the Pineapple: Finally, add the pineapple chunks to the wok and stir-fry briefly until heated through. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. For a stunning presentation, serve the fried rice in fresh pineapple boats and top with pork floss, if desired. Enjoy!

Perfect Pairings for This Dish

Pair this dish with these Southeast Asian favorites for a delicious meal:

• Beef Massaman Curry This rich and creamy curry, made with tender beef, potatoes, and a blend of Thai spices, offers a hearty and comforting contrast to the light, fruity flavors of the fried rice.
• Thai Red Curry with Chicken Spicy and aromatic, this classic curry is packed with bold flavors of red curry paste, coconut milk, and tender chicken. Its robust and creamy texture complements the sweet and savory notes of the rice.
• Green Papaya Salad This refreshing and crunchy salad, made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, and a touch of spice, adds a tangy, zesty kick that balances the richness of the other dishes.