Name: Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1⅓ cups jasmine rice; 1¼ cups coconut milk; 1¼ cups coconut water; ¼ tsp salt; 1½ tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1¼ cups red bell pepper; ⅓ cup Green Onions; 2 tsp cloves garlic; 2 tsp fresh ginger; 2 cups ham; 2 cups fresh pineapple; 3 large eggs; ½ cup Green Onions; 3 tbsp fresh cilantro; 1 tbsp soy sauce

Hawaiian fried rice is a delightful fusion of classic Asian flavors and tropical Hawaiian ingredients. The combination of savory ham, juicy pineapple, and fragrant coconut-infused rice creates a unique and delicious dish that is perfect for any meal.

Photos of Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be in your pantry, such as coconut milk, coconut water, and fresh ginger. These are essential for achieving the authentic flavor and can be found in the international or Asian section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients For Hawaiian Fried Rice

Jasmine rice: A fragrant, long-grain rice that provides the perfect texture for fried rice.

Coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the rice.

Coconut water: Enhances the tropical taste and helps cook the rice.

Salt: Essential seasoning to bring out the flavors.

Olive oil: Used for frying and sautéing the ingredients.

Sesame oil: Provides a nutty, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Red bell pepper: Adds color and a slightly sweet taste.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; divided into light and green portions.

Garlic: A pungent, aromatic addition to the dish.

Fresh ginger: Adds a zesty, spicy note to the fried rice.

Ham: Provides a savory, meaty component.

Fresh pineapple: Brings sweetness and a tropical twist.

Eggs: Adds protein and texture to the fried rice.

Cilantro: Adds freshness and a hint of citrus flavor.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

One reader, Angus Acosta says:

This Hawaiian fried rice recipe is a delightful blend of flavors! The coconut milk and pineapple add a tropical twist, while the ham and ginger provide a savory balance. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. A new favorite in our household!

Angus Acosta

Techniques for Perfect Hawaiian Fried Rice

How to cook rice: Bring coconut milk, coconut water, and salt to a boil, then add rice, cover, and simmer until liquid is absorbed. How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet, add bell pepper and light green onions, and cook until tender. How to scramble eggs: Add eggs to the skillet, season lightly with salt, and cook until just set. How to combine ingredients: Mix cooked rice, green onions, cilantro, and soy sauce with the other ingredients in the skillet.

How To Make Hawaiian Fried Rice

Savor tropical flavors with this Hawaiian fried rice recipe that cooks the rice in coconut milk, with added pineapple, ham, and eggs for a filling meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1⅓cupsjasmine rice,rinsed and drained well
1¼cupscoconut milk
1¼cupscoconut water,or water
¼tspsalt
1½tbspolive oil,divided
1tspsesame oil,divided
1¼cupsred bell pepper,diced
⅓cupgreen onions,light portion, sliced
2tspcloves garlic,minced
2tspfresh ginger,peeled and minced
2cupsham,diced
2cupsfresh pineapple,diced
3large eggs
½cupgreen onions,green portion, sliced
3tbspfresh cilantro,minced
1tbspsoy sauce,or more to taste

Instructions

In a medium saucepan bring coconut milk, coconut water, and salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add in rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes until the liquid has been absorbed.
Remove rice from heat and let rest off the heat for 10 minutes.
While rice is resting, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil in 12-inch (and deep) skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat.
Add bell pepper and light green onions to the skillet and saute for about 4 minutes until peppers are tender.
Stir in garlic and ginger, then toss in ham and pineapple and let cook for about 1 minute until heated through.
Scoot everything in the pan to one far side. Add remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil to the empty side of the skillet.
Add eggs, season lightly with salt and scramble, and cook until just set.
Add in rice, green portion of green onions and cilantro and drizzle in soy sauce, then toss everything.
Serve warm with Sriracha if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 606.75kcal
Fat: 29.90g
Saturated Fat: 15.64g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.82g
Carbohydrates: 60.10g
Fiber: 3.52g
Sugar: 10.23g
Protein: 25.22g
Cholesterol: 165.12mg
Sodium: 1239.24mg
Calcium: 88.37mg
Potassium: 883.27mg
Iron: 6.14mg
Vitamin A: 118.82µg
Vitamin C: 84.81mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Hawaiian Fried Rice

When cooking jasmine rice with coconut milk and coconut water, ensure you stir the mixture well before bringing it to a boil. This helps to evenly distribute the coconut flavors throughout the rice, resulting in a more cohesive and aromatic dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop red bell pepper, green onions, garlic, ginger, ham, and pineapple in advance to streamline cooking.

Use leftover rice: If you have leftover jasmine rice, use it instead of cooking fresh rice to save time.

One-pan method: Cook everything in one large skillet to minimize cleanup and speed up the process.

Quick scramble: Scramble the eggs in a separate pan while the vegetables are cooking to save a few minutes.

Pre-measure liquids: Measure out coconut milk and coconut water beforehand to quickly add them when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe

jasmine rice - Substitute with basmati rice: Basmati rice has a similar texture and aroma, making it a good alternative for jasmine rice in fried rice recipes.
coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can provide a similar creamy texture, though it will have a different flavor profile.
coconut water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a savory depth of flavor, though it will change the overall taste of the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a good substitute for olive oil.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a nutty flavor, making it a suitable alternative to sesame oil.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a good substitute for red bell peppers.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for green onions.
cloves garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic cloves, though it will have a slightly different flavor intensity.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, though it will have a different texture and slightly less pungent flavor.
ham - Substitute with bacon: Bacon can provide a similar salty and savory flavor, though it will add a different texture and smokiness.
fresh pineapple - Substitute with canned pineapple: Canned pineapple can be used in place of fresh pineapple, though it may be sweeter and less firm.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a protein-rich alternative to eggs, especially for a vegan version of the dish.
green onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for green onions.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, though it will lack the citrusy notes.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar umami flavor.

Presenting Hawaiian Fried Rice

Use a pineapple bowl: Hollow out a fresh pineapple and use it as a bowl to serve the Hawaiian fried rice. This adds an authentic tropical touch and enhances the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Top the dish with finely chopped fresh cilantro and additional green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
Create a colorful layout: Arrange the red bell pepper, ham, and pineapple pieces in a visually appealing pattern on top of the rice to highlight the vibrant ingredients.
Serve with a side of sriracha: Place a small dish of sriracha sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a contrasting color and flavor.
Use edible flowers: Decorate the plate with a few edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.
Drizzle with sesame oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle some sesame oil over the dish to enhance the aroma and give it a glossy finish.
Add a citrus twist: Place a wedge of lime or lemon on the side of the plate for an optional zesty kick that diners can squeeze over the dish.
Serve with chopsticks: Present the dish with a pair of elegant chopsticks to enhance the dining experience and add an authentic touch.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the rice, scrambled eggs, and other ingredients in the bowl to create a visually appealing stratification.
Use a large white plate: Serve the Hawaiian fried rice on a large white plate to make the colors of the ingredients pop and give it a clean, professional look.

Essential Tools for Making Fried Rice

Medium saucepan: Used to bring the coconut milk, coconut water, and salt to a boil and to cook the rice.
Lid: Essential for covering the saucepan to allow the rice to simmer and absorb the liquid properly.
12-inch skillet or saute pan: A large and deep pan needed for sautéing the vegetables, ham, and pineapple, and for scrambling the eggs.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring the ingredients in the skillet and for scrambling the eggs.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the rice, coconut milk, coconut water, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring smaller quantities like salt, oils, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the bell pepper, green onions, garlic, ginger, ham, pineapple, and cilantro.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping and dicing all the fresh ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Handy for holding the scrambled eggs before adding them to the skillet.
Whisk or fork: Used to beat the eggs before scrambling them in the skillet.
Serving spoon: Useful for serving the finished Hawaiian fried rice.
Sriracha bottle: Optional, but useful if you want to add a spicy kick to the dish when serving.

Storing and Freezing Hawaiian Fried Rice

Let the Hawaiian fried rice cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the rice from becoming soggy and mushy.
Place the cooled fried rice in a shallow, airtight container. This will help the rice cool down faster and prevent it from clumping together.
If you have a large batch of Hawaiian fried rice, consider dividing it into smaller portions before storing. This will make it easier to reheat and serve later on.
To refrigerate: Store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
To freeze: Transfer the cooled fried rice to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Freeze the Hawaiian fried rice for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat frozen fried rice, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
If the reheated fried rice seems dry, you can add a splash of coconut milk or water to help moisten it up. Stir well to combine and heat through before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Fried Rice

Stovetop method: heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil or sesame oil. Once hot, add the leftover Hawaiian fried rice and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
Microwave method: place the leftover Hawaiian fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the rice from drying out during reheating.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover Hawaiian fried rice in an even layer on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow the rice to crisp up slightly.
Air fryer method: preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Hawaiian fried rice in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method, you can add a splash of coconut milk or water to help moisten the rice and prevent it from drying out. You can also adjust the seasoning by adding a little extra soy sauce, sesame oil, or green onions to refresh the flavors.

Interesting Fact About Hawaiian Fried Rice

A unique aspect of this Hawaiian fried rice recipe is the use of coconut milk and coconut water to cook the jasmine rice, which adds a rich, tropical flavor that complements the pineapple and ham.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The Hawaiian fried rice recipe is moderately cost-effective. Using jasmine rice, coconut milk, and coconut water adds a unique flavor but can be pricier than regular ingredients. Ham and pineapple are relatively affordable, while bell peppers and green onions are budget-friendly. The overall verdict is a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD.

Is Hawaiian Fried Rice Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Hawaiian fried rice recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Jasmine rice, which is a whole grain
Coconut milk and water, providing healthy fats and hydration
Vegetables like red bell pepper, green onions, garlic, and ginger, offering vitamins and minerals
Fresh pineapple, a source of vitamin C and antioxidants
Eggs, providing protein and essential nutrients

However, there are also some less healthy components:

Ham, which can be high in sodium and saturated fat
Soy sauce, another high-sodium ingredient
The use of olive oil and sesame oil, which can contribute to a higher calorie count

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the ham with a leaner protein source, such as chicken breast or tofu
Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce the salt content
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish, adding more bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra fiber and nutrients
Opt for a smaller portion of rice and a larger serving of the vegetable and protein mixture
Use a minimal amount of oil, or replace it with a cooking spray to reduce the calorie count
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for added flavor without extra calories

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Hawaiian fried rice while maintaining a more balanced and nutritious meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe

This Hawaiian fried rice recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and classic fried rice elements. The use of coconut milk and coconut water to cook the jasmine rice adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the savory notes of the ham. The fresh ginger and garlic provide a fragrant depth, while the cilantro and green onions add a refreshing finish. The balance of flavors is well thought out, making it a vibrant and satisfying dish. A touch of sriracha at the end would elevate the dish with a hint of heat.

Enhance Your Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Imagine a vibrant salad bursting with the tropical flavors of mango and creamy avocado. This refreshing side dish adds a delightful contrast to the savory notes of the Hawaiian Fried Rice, making every bite a journey to paradise.

Coconut Shrimp: Dive into the crispy goodness of Coconut Shrimp, where succulent shrimp is coated in a crunchy coconut crust. This side dish pairs perfectly with the rich and aromatic Hawaiian Fried Rice, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.

Papaya Salsa: Add a zesty twist with Papaya Salsa, a vibrant mix of ripe papaya, red onion, and cilantro. This tangy and sweet salsa complements the savory elements of the Hawaiian Fried Rice, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Lemongrass Chicken Skewers: Elevate your meal with Lemongrass Chicken Skewers, where tender pieces of chicken are marinated in fragrant lemongrass and grilled to perfection. These skewers add a smoky and aromatic touch to the Hawaiian Fried Rice, making it a feast for the senses.

Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: End on a sweet note with Pineapple Coconut Sorbet, a refreshing dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut. This light and icy treat is the perfect way to cleanse your palate after enjoying the rich and flavorful Hawaiian Fried Rice.

Similar Recipes to Hawaiian Fried Rice

Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry: Dive into a tropical twist with this vibrant stir-fry! Juicy chicken chunks, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers come together in a savory soy sauce glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Coconut Shrimp Curry: Transport your taste buds to the islands with this creamy coconut shrimp curry. Infused with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a hint of lime, this dish is a delightful blend of flavors that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

Mango Chicken Salad: Refresh your palate with this zesty mango chicken salad. Crisp greens, juicy mango slices, and tender chicken breast are tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. A perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Teriyaki Beef Skewers: Grill up some fun with these flavorful teriyaki beef skewers. Marinated in a rich soy sauce blend, these skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick dinner. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Brighten your day with this refreshing tropical fruit salad. A medley of pineapple, mango, kiwi, and papaya tossed in a light honey and lime dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Hawaiian Fried Rice

Appetizers:

Tropical Shrimp Skewers: Tropical Shrimp Skewers are a delightful way to start your meal. Marinate shrimp in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Skewer them with chunks of mango and red bell pepper. Grill until the shrimp are perfectly cooked and the fruits are slightly caramelized. Serve with a dipping sauce made from coconut milk and a touch of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Coconut Chicken Bites: Coconut Chicken Bites bring a taste of the islands to your table. Coat chicken breast pieces in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Pair these bites with a pineapple salsa made from fresh pineapple, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño. The combination of crunchy chicken and refreshing salsa is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Transform your dining experience with a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that perfectly complements your Hawaiian fried rice. Imagine a moist, buttery cake topped with caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries. Infuse the batter with a hint of coconut milk to echo the tropical flavors of your main course. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Coconut Haupia: Elevate your meal with a traditional Coconut Haupia, a Hawaiian coconut pudding that is both simple and elegant. Create a creamy, gelatinous dessert using coconut milk and a touch of sugar. Garnish with fresh mango slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. Chill thoroughly before serving to ensure a refreshing end to your tropical feast.

Why trust this Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe:

This Hawaiian fried rice recipe combines the tropical flavors of coconut milk and pineapple with savory ham and soy sauce. The use of fresh ginger and garlic adds a delightful zing, while the jasmine rice provides a fragrant base. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process, making it easy for anyone to recreate this delicious dish at home. Trust this recipe for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds to a Hawaiian paradise.

Share your thoughts on this Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this dish!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice like basmati or long-grain rice, but jasmine rice gives the best texture and flavor for this dish.

Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Do I have to use both coconut milk and coconut water?

Using both coconut milk and coconut water adds a rich, tropical flavor, but if you only have one, you can use it and substitute the other with regular water or broth.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Make sure to let the rice rest off the heat for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps it firm up and prevents it from becoming mushy when you mix it with the other ingredients.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.