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Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- If possible, use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. Cold rice has a firmer texture, which helps prevent it from getting mushy when stir-fried. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin or sweet chili sauce, curry powder, and turmeric powder. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables and Pineapple
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the diced carrot and bell pepper, stirring frequently until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 4–5 minutes.
- Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes, letting them caramelize slightly to enhance their sweetness.
4. Add the Rice and Sauce
- Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Pour the sauce over the rice and stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Toss in the green onions and peas, mixing until everything is well combined and the rice is heated through, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the Cashews (Optional)
- For an added layer of texture, stir in the cashews during the final minute of cooking. This adds a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the rice and vegetables.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
- Enjoy your Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice warm, as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite vegan sides.
Tips for the Best Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice: This is key for achieving the perfect texture in fried rice. Day-old rice is drier, which helps it fry better and absorb flavors without becoming sticky.
- Choose Fresh Pineapple if Possible: While canned pineapple works well in a pinch, fresh pineapple adds an extra level of natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add a dash of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the dish if you prefer a spicier kick.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, toss in tofu cubes, edamame, or chickpeas, which will pair well with the sweet-savory flavors.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try
Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. It’s a fresh and nutritious alternative to takeout fried rice and is easily customizable, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights. The combination of caramelized pineapple, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice covered in a savory-sweet sauce is incredibly satisfying, bringing new excitement to a classic dish.
Next time you’re in the mood for a flavor-packed meal, give this vibrant, tasty recipe a try. This Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation, offering a balance of wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and plenty of options to make it uniquely yours!