Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Easy Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick weeknight meal. This vibrant and flavorful recipe showcases the sweet and savory combination of pineapple and veggies, making it a delightful option for vegans and non-vegans alike. Plus, it’s healthy, gluten-free, and creates fantastic leftovers that keep well in the fridge!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
• Step 2: Cook the Pineapple
• Step 3: Sauté Bell Pepper and Onion
• Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage
• Step 5: Combine Everything
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• As a Standalone Dish
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Lime Wedges
• Paired with Tofu Scramble
• Served in Pineapple Halves
• With Hot Sauce
• How to Perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• Reheating Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?
• Can I use different vegetables in Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?
• Is Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice gluten-free?
• How do I spice up Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This vegan pineapple fried rice can be whipped up in just 30 minutes!
• Flavor Packed: The blend of tamari, maple syrup, and fresh vegetables delivers an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish. It’s great for any meal!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from the colorful veggies and wholesome brown rice.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Easy to store and reheat, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious vegan pineapple fried rice, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything comes together perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for perfect stir-frying without needing much oil.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

Easy vegan pineapple fried rice made with perfectly stir fried veggies, a simple sweet and savory tamari sauce and tons of flavor. Healthy, filling, gluten free and makes perfect leftovers.

Ingredients:
– 4-5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled)
– 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
– 1 red bell pepper (diced)
– 3/4 cup green peas (frozen & thawed in hot water)
– 1 cup purple cabbage (shredded)
– 1/2 red onion (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 tbsp tamari
– 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 3/4 tsp hot sauce or red chili flakes
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)

How to Make Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl whisk together all the stir-fry sauce ingredients and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pineapple

Start with a hot cast iron skillet that has been seasoned well; this way you won’t need to use any oil. Quickly stir-fry the pineapple chunks until lightly caramelized. Once desired color is achieved, transfer them to a bowl. If you don’t have a seasoned cast iron skillet, use another skillet with a drizzle of sesame oil or water.

Step 3: Sauté Bell Pepper and Onion

Add the bell pepper and onion to the hot skillet. Stir quickly until they start to get some color. Work fast to avoid burning; if needed, add a splash of water to keep things moving. Scoop out the sautéed onion and pepper into the bowl with the pineapple.

Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage

In the same skillet, add purple cabbage and stir-fry for about one minute until it starts to wilt. Move it to one side of the skillet. Add a little drop of oil (or use water for WFPB diets) before adding minced garlic. Cook until just fragrant while stirring quickly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked brown rice along with green peas into the skillet. Pour in your prepared stir-fry sauce. Remove from heat and gently mix in reserved vegetables.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro, scallions, and sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your vegan pineapple fried rice with a fresh squeeze of lime!

How to Serve Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is a colorful and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways. It’s not just versatile but also perfect for meal prep. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• This dish is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, showcasing the delightful combination of sweet pineapple and savory veggies.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor. The herbs add freshness that complements the fried rice beautifully.

Accompanied by Lime Wedges

• Serve with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime just before eating enhances the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Paired with Tofu Scramble

• Combine with a tofu scramble for added protein. This pairing makes it an excellent breakfast option or a filling lunch.

Served in Pineapple Halves

• For a fun presentation, serve the fried rice in hollowed-out pineapple halves. It’s visually appealing and makes for an impressive dish at gatherings.

With Hot Sauce

• Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick. This allows each guest to customize their heat level.

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How to Perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Making the perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, day-old brown rice prevents clumping and ensures each grain remains separate during cooking.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying on high heat helps achieve that signature wok hei flavor. It locks in moisture while adding a slight char.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible for better flavor and texture. Frozen veggies can work, but fresh ones offer more nutrients.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the tamari and maple syrup according to taste. Balancing sweet and salty will enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Stir-fry vegetables just until tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for crunch or swap in different veggies based on what you have on hand.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Pairing your Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spring Rolls: Crunchy vegetable spring rolls add texture and freshness, making them a great accompaniment.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast, enhancing your Asian-inspired meal.
3. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the fried rice.
4. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt adds protein while being easy to prepare.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can bring additional nutrients and flavors, rounding out your meal beautifully.
6. Chili Garlic Sauce: Serve this spicy condiment as an extra option for those wanting more heat in their meal.
7. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a delightful contrast in texture and temperature, making them an excellent choice alongside fried rice.
8. Tofu Skewers: Grilled or baked tofu skewers marinated in soy sauce or teriyaki add heartiness and protein, complementing the fried rice perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making vegan pineapple fried rice, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky. Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking vegetables: Soft, mushy veggies can ruin your dish. Stir-fry quickly on high heat to keep them crisp.
• Skipping the sauce: A bland fried rice is not appealing. Don’t skip the tamari and maple syrup – they add essential flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can leave your dish flat. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Not using enough pineapple: Pineapple adds sweetness and balance. Use plenty for a delicious contrast in flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium in a skillet with a splash of water or oil, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about vegan pineapple fried rice that can help with your cooking process.

What is Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?

Vegan pineapple fried rice is a flavorful dish made with stir-fried rice, vegetables, and sweet pineapple chunks, all tossed together in a savory sauce.

Can I use different vegetables in Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Is Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice gluten-free?

Yes, when you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this dish remains gluten-free while maintaining its delicious taste.

How do I spice up Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?

Add more hot sauce or red chili flakes if you like heat. You can also experiment with adding ginger or sesame oil for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Vegan pineapple fried rice is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and makes amazing leftovers! Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this healthy meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings!