Name: Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 cups brown rice; 1 tsp oil; 1¼ lb shrimp; 1½ cup fresh pineapple; 5 large scallions; 3 garlic cloves; 1 fresh chili pepper; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp fish sauce; cilantro

Embrace the tropical flavors with this indulgent Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice. This dish brings the sweet and tangy essence of ripe pineapple together with succulent shrimp, all combined with fragrant, savoury fried rice. The result is a symphony of flavors, sure to transport your tastebuds to a beachside paradise.

Photos of Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this dish are commonly found in standard home kitchens, there may be a couple of items that catch your eye. Fresh pineapple, for instance, adds a tropical twist, and if it's not already in your fruit bowl, you might need to add it to your shopping list. Similarly, fish sauce, a staple in many Asian cuisines, brings a depth of flavor to this dish. If it's not in your pantry, you'll readily find it in the international aisle of supermarkets.

Ingredients for Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Brown rice: Packed with fiber and more nutritious than white rice. It gives this dish a hearty base and has a slightly nutty flavor.

Oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and veggies, it prevents sticking and adds a bit of richness.

Shrimp: Adds a touch of seafood flavor and a punch of protein.

Fresh pineapple: Brings a sweet and tangy flavor, balancing out the savory elements.

Scallions: Also known as green onions, they provide a mild oniony taste.

Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic note.

Chili pepper: Offers a hint of heat.

Soy sauce: Adds a touch of umami and a beautiful caramel color.

Fish sauce: Ensures depth of flavor with its salty and slightly sweet taste.

Cilantro: Adds a bright, fresh finish and complements the other flavors.

One reader, Ashby Beatty says:

This pineapple shrimp fried rice recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet pineapple and savory shrimp is a match made in heaven. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the presentation in the pineapple bowls is a showstopper. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their fried rice game!

Ashby Beatty

Techniques Required for Making Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

How to prepare the pineapple: Cut each pineapple in half, then hollow out both halves to make 4 bowls. Cut a piece off the bottom of the pineapple halves to create a flat base. Cut the pineapple into small pieces, then set aside.

How to cook the shrimp: Heat a nonstick wok on high heat, then when the wok is hot, add in the oil. Add the shrimp, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes until just opaque. Set aside.

How to sauté the ingredients: Add the scallions, chili, and garlic to the wok. Sauté for 1 minute, then add the rice, shrimp, and pineapple. Stir a few times.

How to finish the dish: Add the soy sauce and fish sauce, then stir to combine and cook for another 30 seconds. Divide and transfer the rice mixture into the hollowed out pineapples. Serve with a garnish of cilantro, and enjoy!

How To Make Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Grab a bite of this sweet and savory shrimp fried rice for lunch today! Cook these up in just 30 minutes for a belly-filling meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupsbrown rice ,cooked
1tspoil
1¼lbshrimp ,deveined and peeled
1½cupfresh pineapple
5large scallions,chopped
3garlic cloves,minced
1fresh chili pepper,or jalepeno, chopped
1tbspsoy sauce,or more to taste
1tspfish sauce
cilantro,for garnish

Instructions

Cut each pineapple in half, then hollow out both halves to make 4 bowls.
Cut a piece off the bottom of the pineapple halves to create a flat base.
Cut the pineapple into small pieces, then set aside.
Heat a nonstick wok on high heat, then when the wok is hot, add in the oil.
Add the shrimp, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes until just opaque. Set aside.
Add the scallions, chili and garlic to the wok.
Sauté for 1 minute, then add the rice, shrimp and pineapple. Stir a few times.
Add the soy sauce and fish sauce, then stir to combine and cook for another 30 seconds.
Divide and transfer the rice mixture into the hollowed out pineapples.
Serve with a garnish of cilantro, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 678.79kcal
Fat: 6.61g
Saturated Fat: 1.24g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.19g
Carbohydrates: 122.38g
Fiber: 6.88g
Sugar: 7.55g
Protein: 31.72g
Cholesterol: 178.60mg
Sodium: 1154.32mg
Calcium: 164.39mg
Potassium: 783.45mg
Iron: 3.80mg
Vitamin A: 112.88µg
Vitamin C: 53.40mg

Key Technique Tip for Perfecting Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

When hollowing out the pineapple, make sure to leave a thin layer of fruit on the skin. This will not only provide extra flavor to the fried rice, but also prevent the pineapple shell from getting too soft or soggy when filled with the hot rice mixture. Additionally, when cooking the shrimp, be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough and rubbery. They should be just opaque and still slightly tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, peel shrimp, and cut pineapple in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Use a large wok or skillet to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing clean-up time.

Ready-to-eat: Utilize pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.

Substitute Ingredients For Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a great substitute for brown rice as it is a complete protein and has a nutty flavor, adding a different dimension to the dish.
oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of tropical flavor to the dish, complementing the pineapple and shrimp.
shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp for those who prefer a different protein or have shellfish allergies.
fresh pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, adding a tropical twist.
scallions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to scallions, adding a different depth to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient alternative without compromising the flavor.
fresh chili pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick to the dish, similar to fresh chili pepper, but in a dried form.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
fish sauce - Substitute with oyster sauce: Oyster sauce can provide a similar savory and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.

Presenting Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Elevate the pineapple bowls: Carefully carve the pineapple halves to create elegant and visually appealing bowls for the fried rice. The presentation should be sophisticated and refined, showcasing the natural beauty of the pineapple.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle a generous amount of fresh cilantro on top of the pineapple shrimp fried rice. The vibrant green color and aromatic fragrance will add a pop of freshness to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.
Arrange the shrimp artistically: Place the cooked shrimp on top of the fried rice in a visually appealing manner. Consider creating a pattern or design with the shrimp to showcase attention to detail and culinary artistry.
Incorporate scallion curls: Create delicate scallion curls to adorn the dish. These elegant garnishes will add a touch of sophistication and finesse to the presentation, impressing the discerning palates of the Michelin-starred judges.
Balance the colors: Ensure a harmonious balance of colors on the plate. The vibrant hues of the pineapple, shrimp, scallions, and cilantro should come together to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to highlight the beauty of the dish. Thoughtfully arrange the components to allow the pineapple shrimp fried rice to take center stage, showcasing its exquisite flavors and textures.

Essential Tools for Making Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to quickly and efficiently prepare a wide range of foods.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining ingredients, whisking, or stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is used for a wide range of cooking and baking tasks.

Storing and Freezing Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Let the pineapple shrimp fried rice cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the rice from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
Store the leftover fried rice in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container to prevent any odors from seeping in and affecting the flavor of the dish.
If you want to freeze the fried rice, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, it's a good idea to portion the fried rice into individual serving sizes. This way, you can easily thaw and reheat only the amount you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
Fried rice can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To maintain the best quality, make sure to label the container or bag with the date of freezing so you can keep track of how long it has been stored.
To reheat frozen fried rice, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it in a microwave or a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and steaming hot.
If you find that the reheated fried rice is a bit dry, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten it and bring back some of its original texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Reheat the pineapple shrimp fried rice in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking and to add extra flavor. Stir-fry the rice for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the pineapple shrimp fried rice in the microwave. Transfer the rice to a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the rice from drying out.
If you have leftover pineapple shells, use them as serving bowls for the reheated fried rice. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the filled pineapple shells on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
For a crispy texture, spread the leftover pineapple shrimp fried rice in a thin layer on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the rice for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and crispy on the edges.
Add extra flavor and moisture to the reheated fried rice by stirring in some chicken broth, coconut milk, or soy sauce. This will help revive the flavors and prevent the rice from being too dry.

Random Fact About Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

The pineapple shrimp fried rice recipe is a fusion dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of shrimp and rice. This dish is a popular Thai-inspired recipe that offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. It's a great way to incorporate tropical fruits into a savory dish, and it provides a unique presentation when served in hollowed-out pineapple halves. This dish is also a great source of protein from the shrimp and offers a healthy alternative to traditional fried rice. It's a delicious and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Is Making Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice at Home Cost-Effective?

This pineapple shrimp fried rice recipe is fairly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as rice, shrimp, and pineapple, are reasonably priced and can be found in most grocery stores. The addition of scallions, garlic, and chili pepper adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this dish offers a good balance of cost and quality. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option.

Is Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pineapple shrimp fried rice recipe is a healthier twist on a classic dish, thanks to a few key ingredients:

Brown rice is used instead of white rice, providing more fiber, nutrients, and a lower glycemic index
The recipe incorporates fresh pineapple, which is rich in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants
Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and high in essential nutrients like iodine and selenium
The use of fresh chili pepper and garlic adds flavor while providing anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for oil, which adds extra calories and fat. Consider using a cooking spray or a smaller amount of a heart-healthy oil like olive oil
Soy sauce and fish sauce are high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. Opt for low-sodium versions or use them sparingly

To make this recipe even more nutritious, you could:

Add more vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a mix of brown and wild rice for added texture and a boost of antioxidants
Experiment with other lean proteins like tofu or chicken breast to vary the flavor and nutrient profile
Incorporate more herbs and spices, like ginger or turmeric, for added health benefits and flavor without extra calories or sodium

By making these simple adjustments, you can transform this tasty pineapple shrimp fried rice into an even healthier and more satisfying meal that you can feel good about enjoying.

Editor's Thoughts on Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

This pineapple shrimp fried rice recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The use of fresh pineapple as a serving bowl adds a unique and visually stunning element to the dish. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic and scallions, and the sweetness of pineapple creates a harmonious balance of savory and sweet. The addition of soy sauce and fish sauce enhances the umami profile, while the cilantro garnish provides a refreshing herbal note. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful tropical twist to a classic fried rice dish, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a special meal at home.

Enhance Your Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and tropical salsa to serve alongside the pineapple shrimp fried rice.

Coconut Rice: Cook jasmine rice with coconut milk and a pinch of salt for a creamy and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the fried rice.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a spicy sauce. It's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. It's packed with juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy dressing.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this creamy tomato basil soup. It's made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream for a luxurious texture. Perfect for a cozy night in.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with sea salt for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese. Dust the top with cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness to complement the sweetness of the dessert.

Why trust this Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining succulent shrimp with the sweetness of fresh pineapple. The use of brown rice adds a wholesome touch, while the aromatic blend of garlic, scallions, and chili pepper infuses the dish with depth and warmth. The addition of soy sauce and fish sauce elevates the umami profile, creating a harmonious balance of savory and sweet. The final touch of cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Trust in this recipe for a tantalizing experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine.

Want to share your experience making this Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe or discuss tips and variations? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using long-grain brown rice for this recipe. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple if fresh pineapple is not available. Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple before using it in the recipe.

Is there a substitute for shrimp for those with seafood allergies?

Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with diced chicken, tofu, or even just add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version of this fried rice.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and chop the ingredients in advance to save time. However, I recommend cooking the shrimp and assembling the fried rice just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How spicy is this dish with the chili pepper?

The spiciness level can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds and membrane from the chili pepper before adding it to the dish.