If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and a touch of tropical flair, then this Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. With juicy pineapple chunks, caramelized ham, and fragrant ginger and garlic all tossed with fluffy rice, this dish is a vibrant celebration of flavor and color. It’s a versatile and easy dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals, yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings its own little sparkle — from the savory ham to the bright red bell pepper and sweet pineapple, creating layers of flavor and texture you won’t want to miss.
- Soy sauce: Adds a rich, salty depth that ties all the ingredients together.
- Pineapple juice: Brings natural sweetness and a hint of acidity for balance.
- Coconut oil: Imparts a subtle tropical aroma and helps to lightly toast the ingredients.
- Leftover ham, diced: The star protein that adds heartiness and a smoky note.
- Pineapple chunks: Burst of juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory ham.
- Red bell pepper, diced: Provides a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic base flavor.
- Fresh grated ginger: Adds a zesty warmth that wakes up the palate.
- Cooked long grain rice (preferably chilled): Ensures the fried rice has the perfect texture without becoming mushy.
- Eggs, beaten: Adds richness and a lovely fluffy texture when scrambled into the rice.
- Salt, to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Blend
Start by whisking together the pineapple juice and soy sauce in a small bowl. This flavorful blend will infuse the dish with that signature sweet and salty character right from the start.
Step 2: Caramelize Ham and Pineapple
Heat your pan on medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of coconut oil. Toss in the diced ham and pineapple chunks, cooking them for about 3 to 4 minutes. The goal here is to get a beautiful golden caramelization that intensifies the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness to the savory ham.
Step 3: Add Bell Pepper and Set Aside
Throw in the diced red bell pepper and cook everything together for another 2 minutes. This will soften the pepper slightly while maintaining its satisfying crunch. Transfer this colorful mixture to a plate and set it aside for now.
Step 4: Toast Aromatics and Rice
Add another 1 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil to your hot pan. Toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add your chilled cooked rice, stirring to coat it evenly with the aromatics. Spread the rice out in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to toast it lightly. This toasting step adds a wonderful nutty flavor and prevents sogginess.
Step 5: Cook the Eggs Separately
Scoop the rice to one side of the pan to make room for the eggs. Add the final ½ tablespoon of coconut oil to the empty side, then pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble gently until the eggs are mostly cooked but still slightly runny. Then, gradually mix the eggs in with the rice to combine that fluffy texture throughout the dish.
Step 6: Combine Everything with Sauce
Pour your prepared soy sauce and pineapple juice mixture evenly over the rice and egg blend. Stir slowly, making sure the liquid is absorbed and everything is coated with that perfect sweet-salty glaze. Return the caramelized ham, pineapple, and bell pepper mix back into the pan and fold it all together.
Step 7: Final Cooking and Serve
Let the entire mixture cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally until all the liquid is cooked off and the rice has developed some of those irresistible slightly crispy bits. Serve your homemade ham fried rice with pineapple hot and enjoy the incredible harmony of flavors.
How to Serve Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can add a layer of freshness and visual appeal. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even a few sprigs of cilantro on top. A squeeze of lime can also brighten the dish if you like a zesty hint.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed veggies, crunchy Asian slaw, or even fresh cucumber slices. For a bit of heat, spicy kimchi or a drizzle of chili oil adds a delightful kick.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe inside hollowed-out pineapple halves for an exotic and festive presentation. Alternatively, plate it with a fried egg on top for a restaurant-quality touch that elevates every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover ham fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, though the texture of the pineapple may change slightly after thawing. If freezing, portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and consume within 1-2 months for best flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil for best results. Stir frequently to warm it evenly and bring back some of the original texture. Avoid microwaving directly as it may make the rice clump or turn soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked rice instead of leftover chilled rice?
While you can, leftover chilled rice is ideal because it’s drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool and dry slightly before cooking.
Is there a substitute for coconut oil in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil, peanut oil, or any neutral oil you have on hand. Coconut oil adds a mild tropical flavor, but the dish will still be delicious with other oils.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and replace it with tofu cubes or your favorite plant-based protein. You might want to adjust seasoning to boost umami flavor, perhaps adding a touch of mushroom soy sauce or vegetarian seasoning.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Make sure your pan is adequately heated and use enough oil to coat the surface. Using chilled rice also helps, and try to avoid stirring constantly during the toasting phase to allow the rice to develop a nice texture without sticking.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in peas, carrots, green beans, or any veggies you enjoy. Just add them in at appropriate times so they stay crisp and don’t overcook.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cheerful and comforting flavors of the Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe to brighten up any mealtime. It’s a brilliant way to repurpose leftovers with a tropical twist that feels fresh and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own — it’s sure to become a happy staple in your kitchen!
Print
Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
A flavorful Ham Fried Rice with Pineapple recipe that combines savory ham, sweet pineapple, and aromatic garlic and ginger, stir-fried with rice and eggs to create a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for using leftover ingredients.
Ingredients
Sauce
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
- 1 cup leftover ham, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 3 cups cooked long grain rice, refrigerated overnight
- 3 eggs, beaten
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: Combine the pineapple juice and soy sauce in a small bowl and set aside for later use.
- Cook Ham and Pineapple: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add the diced ham and pineapple chunks and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is golden and starts to caramelize.
- Add Bell Pepper: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes. Transfer this ham mixture to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Toast Rice: Add 1 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chilled rice, mix with the aromatics, and spread it out in the pan. Cook without stirring too much for about 5 minutes until the rice starts to get toasted.
- Cook Eggs: Push the rice to one side of the pan and add the remaining ½ tablespoon coconut oil to the empty side. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until mostly cooked but still slightly runny. Then mix the eggs into the rice until well combined.
- Add Sauce and Ham Mixture: Pour the prepared soy sauce and pineapple juice over the rice mixture. Stir slowly to incorporate the liquid evenly. Return the cooked ham, pineapple, and bell pepper mixture back into the pan and stir everything together thoroughly.
- Finish Cooking and Serve: Continue cooking for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has cooked off and the flavors meld. Taste and season with salt if needed. Serve immediately for a warm and tasty meal.
Notes
- Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy and ensures better texture.
- Adjust soy sauce and salt according to your taste preference.
- For extra flavor, add chopped green onions or a splash of sesame oil before serving.
- This recipe is a great way to use leftover ham and pineapple, reducing food waste.
- Ensure eggs are not overcooked to keep the fried rice moist and creamy.
