Hawaiian Fried Rice is a delightful twist on the classic fried rice that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right into your kitchen. This flavorful dish combines juicy pineapple, savory ham, and a medley of colorful vegetables stir-fried with day-old rice, creating an irresistible meal that the whole family can enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Hawaiian Fried Rice recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare and cook. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a fun way to introduce new flavors to your family, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Fried Rice
This Hawaiian Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to your dinner table. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love making this tropical fried rice dish:
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Customizable with your choice of protein—ham, chicken, or even tofu.
- Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost.
- Uses day-old rice, which improves the texture and flavor.
- Great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers.
- Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
- Brings authentic Hawaiian-style flavors to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Fried Rice
Gather these items:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cold and preferably day-old
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral oil like avocado oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup diced ham (or substitute with chicken or tofu)
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 green onions, chopped
How to Make Hawaiian Fried Rice Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in diced ham and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly.
- Step 3: Push everything to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked, then mix into the ham mixture.
- Step 4: Stir in the cold rice, pineapple, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, breaking up clumps of rice.
- Step 5: Pour in soy sauce, toss to coat, and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- Step 6: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Fried Rice
Keep these in mind:
- Use day-old rice for the best texture; it prevents clumping.
- Feel free to customize with your choice of protein to suit your taste.
- For added flavor, consider adding a dash of pineapple juice when stir-frying.
- Make sure to chop ingredients uniformly for even cooking.
Best Ways to Serve Hawaiian Fried Rice
This dish can be served in various delightful ways:
- Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve it as a side dish with your favorite tropical-themed dishes.
- Top with additional green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Fried Rice
To store your Hawaiian Fried Rice, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until hot, or stir-fry it in a pan for a few minutes. This is an excellent meal prep option, as it holds up well in the fridge and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Fried Rice
What’s the secret to perfect Hawaiian Fried Rice?
The key to perfect Hawaiian Fried Rice lies in using day-old rice, as it absorbs flavors better and prevents sogginess. Additionally, balancing the sweet and savory components enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make Hawaiian Fried Rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hawaiian Fried Rice ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a practical choice for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hawaiian Fried Rice?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you use cold, day-old rice to prevent clumping. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan while stir-frying, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy rice.
Variations of Hawaiian Fried Rice You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these easy Hawaiian Fried Rice variations:
- Swap ham for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add cashews or macadamia nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrients.
- Try using brown rice for a healthier twist on this Hawaiian-style dish.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making BBQ Chicken Fried Rice for a twist on this classic dish. If you’re interested in meal prep, our Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls are a great option!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of pineapple, you can visit Healthline.
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Flavor-Packed Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe Your Family Will Love
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Flavor-Packed Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe the Whole Family Will Love
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cold and preferably day-old
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral oil like avocado oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup diced ham (or substitute with chicken or tofu)
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced ham and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly.
- Push everything to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked, then mix into the ham mixture.
- Stir in the cold rice, pineapple, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, breaking up clumps of rice.
- Pour in soy sauce, toss to coat, and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for the best texture.
- Feel free to customize with your choice of protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Hawaiian Fried Rice, Fried Rice, Quick Dinner, Family Meal










