Name: Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ½ pound large peeled and deveined shrimp ((cut into ½-inch pieces)); Salt and freshly ground pepper ((to taste)); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ((divided)); 3 cups cooked cold white rice; ½ cup chopped carrots; 1 tablespoon peeled and minced fresh ginger; 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 cup shelled edamame or peas ((defrosted)); ½ cup thinly sliced scallions ((white and light green parts)); 2 cups small-diced pineapple ((either fresh, or canned pineapple in juice, drained)); 3 large eggs ((beaten))

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The combination of pineapple and shrimp (and the use of pineapple in many savory dishes) feels very Hawaiian to many of us. I guess when you have that many pineapples surrounding you at all times, you want to work them into as many dishes as possible. That’s perhaps a stereotypical idea of Hawaii, pineapples falling from the trees everywhere, but the combo of pineapple and pork, pineapple, and shrimp, definitely seems to be connected to Hawaiian food.

Pan of Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice with spoon

Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp

This is lighter and fruitier than many fried rice dishes and has an appealing sweetness to it. You can chop up the shrimp more finely, and you can also use diced or ground chicken or pork, but using bigger pieces gives this nice texture.

There is a real affinity between pineapple and shrimp: The sweet brininess of the shrimp is such a perfect match to the pineapple’s sweet-sourness. This combo is common to Asian dishes from Chinese to Southeast Asian cooking to Hawaiian. Carrots and peas or edamame give this dish some added color and nutrition.

Table setting with bowls of Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice

What Kind of Rice to Use

Day-old-cooked long- or medium-grain rice is best for this, or rice that is cold and slightly dry so that it stays separate. You can use white or brown rice…your choice. You might also try it with jasmine or basmati rice, but those grains are a little more delicate, so stir gently.

Pineapple in Fried Rice

The best option is fresh pineapple that you dice yourself. You can start with a whole fresh pineapple, or buy one that is cored or cut into spears to save some work. Or, use canned pineapple, but make sure it is in juice (not syrup, which will be way too sweet). You can either use drained canned crushed pineapple or drain and dice up larger chunks or rings. Also look for cans of pineapple “tidbits” which are little small pieces of pineapple, a pretty perfect size for this recipe.