Authentic Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp is packed with tropical flavors and it is easy to make. You'll love the combination of sweet pineapple, juicy shrimp, and fragrant jasmine rice. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to put together!
Pair your Thai pineapple with this Prik Nam Pla sauce or Thai green chili sauce for added flavors and kick! They belong together side-by-side on the tables! (:
Learn how to cut a pineapple with this step-by-step guide. For tasty pineapple recipes, check out these delicious recipes: Thai pineapple curry, Thai sweet and sour chicken with pineapple, and pineapple habanero salsa (with a secret ingredient!)
This recipe dish also includes colorful veggies and a tasty mix of curry powder, fish sauce, and soy sauce for a burst of authentic Thai taste.
For more reader-favorite recipes, check out Thai basil fried rice, Thai shrimp fried rice, Thai vegetarian fried rice, and Thai green curry fried rice. Lots of options to choose from, and they are slightly different from each other, but all with full flavors to satisfy all dietary preferences!
Jump to:
- Pineapple Fried Rice versions
- Why You'll Love Thai pineapple fried rice with shrimp
- What is Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
- What makes Thai pineapple fried rice different from other fried rice?
- What's the special ingredient in Thai pineapple fried rice with shrimp?
- What type of rice is used with pineapple fried rice?
- Ingredients for Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- How to Make Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- Garnishing Options
- Helpful Kitchen Notes and Important Tips
- Helpful Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
- What to Serve With Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- Variations
- Substitutes
- Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Thai recipes you'll love
- Authentic Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- More Thai Recipes
Pineapple Fried Rice versions
In Asian countries, you can find different versions of Pineapple fried rice. They are quite similar but have some variations in ingredients and ways of cooking. They are even different in Thai restaurants, depending on the chefs.
The key things to remember about this dish are that it is the best-fried rice, with juicy pineapple and crunchy cashews. It is up to you to adjust the flavors and seasoning until your taste buds are happy!
Why You'll Love Thai pineapple fried rice with shrimp
- A tasty meal! It is a popular dish in Thai cuisine and has a great flavor. The rice itself tastes delicious.
- Pineapple fried rice with shrimp is a quick and easy Thai dish that is savory, sweet, and delicious.
- It's a one-plate meal that can be whipped up in no time to serve as the main dish or for pairing with family-style dining.
- The combination of shrimp and pineapple offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
- It's a great meal to customize the spiciness and adjust the flavor to suit your taste.
- A feast for the eyes and palate, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, especially if you use the pineapple shell for serving it.
- It's a great way to use leftover rice and create a delicious meal with minimal effort.
What is Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that marries the sweetness of ripe pineapple with the savory goodness of shrimp and fragrant jasmine rice. The dish is elevated with aromatic curry powder, fish sauce, and soy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of Thai seasonings.
The result is a colorful and aromatic stir-fried rice that satisfies both your taste buds and appetite.
What makes Thai pineapple fried rice different from other fried rice?
There are many types of fried rice from different cultures. A special seasoning sauce called Maggi sets Thai pineapple fried rice apart. I also add cashews for a nutty taste and crunchy texture. Another difference is fish sauce, which is important in Thai cooking.
What's the special ingredient in Thai pineapple fried rice with shrimp?
I'll let you in on a family secret to make the tastiest Thai pineapple fried rice with shrimp. The real secret is the Maggi seasoning sauce. I use four sauces in my recipe: soy sauce, Maggi seasoning sauce, fish sauce, and rice vinegar.
Typically, I use the Golden Mountain brand, but I used Maggi seasoning sauce for today's recipe because it's easier to find in most grocery stores. (Making things easier for you!) (:
It yields the exact same flavor. If you can get your hands on the Golden Mountain brand, go for it! They are sold in most Asian markets.
Learn more about the different sauces used in Thai cooking here.
What type of rice is used with pineapple fried rice?
For pineapple fried rice, you should use Thai jasmine rice that has been cooked and cooled down. Letting the rice dry out is important so it doesn't stick together. You can do this by fluffing the rice or leaving it in an open pot or flat surface to cool off. Let the rice rest for at least 30-60 minutes before cooking the fried rice. This step is important for making the best pineapple fried rice.
Ingredients for Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
The best thing about this shrimp pineapple fried rice is that all these ingredients can be found at regular grocery stores!
- Fresh whole pineapple. Fresh is better than canned. But if using canned, squeeze out the extra liquid from the pineapple chunks with paper towels. We don't want mushy pineapple chunks.
- Cooked jasmine rice (day-old rice works best). Using long-grained white rice is the next best substitute.
- Raw shrimp. Peel and deveined tails are found. Use large shrimp if possible.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, Red bell peppers, and spring onions all dice small.
- Cashew nuts. Peanuts can be used as a substitute.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnishing
- Vegetable oil
- Fish sauce. It adds the umami flavor that sets Thai pineapple fried rice apart from other cuisines.
- Soy sauce. Any brand will do.
- Maggie seasoning sauce. The secret ingredient in this recipe
- Rice vinegar. Lime juice is a great substitute.
- Curry powder. Use yellow curry powder.
- Ground pepper. Black or white pepper is fine.
How to Make Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
Follow these easy steps for making authentic Thai pineapple fried rice. See this blog post for instructions on how to cut a pineapple.
Step 1. Prepare the pineapple. Cut the pineapple in half horizontally and carefully hollow out the center, creating a pineapple bowl. Set aside the chunks of pineapple pieces for later use.
See this detailed post on how to cut a pineapple.
Step 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and garlic and cook until lightly browned.
Step 3. Add the cashews and cook for less than a minute.
Step 4. Add the shrimp and cook for a minute, until lightly browned
Step 5. Push the ingredients on the wok aside and add the eggs. Lightly scramble them until done.
Step 6. Add the cooked rice and mix it well with everything in the wok. Break up the big clumps of rice as needed. Cook for one minute.
Step 7. Add all the vegetables to the wok, stir well, and cook for 2-3 minutes
Step 8. Add the sauces and the curry powder, mix in well, cooking for one minute.
Step 9. Add the pineapple, stir well together, and cook for two minutes more or until the desired tenderness of the vegetables and pineapple.
Step 10. Taste and adjust as needed using fish sauce, vinegar, or sugar. That's it! Serve immediately using pineapple bowls for a more festive and fun look.
Garnish with your favorite ingredients. ENJOY!
Garnishing Options
Garnish your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced green onions, and chili flakes, and serve with lime wedges for an extra refreshing touch.
Make this quick and easy Prik Nam Pla sauce for the ultimate sauce to serve alongside Thai shrimp fried rice. It's meant to be served with all Thai fried rice dishes!
Helpful Kitchen Notes and Important Tips
- Instead of using large plates for serving, make a pineapple boat and use it to serve your fried rice. Learn how to cut a pineapple here.
- For the best results, use day-old rice, which has a firmer texture and won't become too mushy during stir-frying.
- Like white or basmati rice, long-grain rice is best for making fried rice recipes.
- Make the pineapple stir-fry sauce separately and use it later. Combine fish, soy, seasoning, vinegar, sugar, and ground pepper in a small bowl. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Helpful Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
- A flat bottom wok or a large pan or skillet
- A sharp knife for dicing vegetables and pineapple.
- A large skillet for stir-frying the ingredients.
What to Serve With Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- This dish is a complete meal or can be served as a side dish. But you can serve it with a side of cucumber salad or with grilled Moo Ping.
- Make this Prik Nam Pla sauce or Thai green chili sauce for added flavors and kick!
Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and substitute it with tofu, tempeh, or vegetables.
Substitutes
- If you don't have jasmine rice, you can use any other type of rice available in your pantry. Experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or long-grain rice, for a unique twist.
Storage
- Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp is best fresh and as leftovers for the next day!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and in the freezer for up to 2 months!
Frequently Asked Questions
The bold pineapple chunks add sweetness, while soy sauce and seasoning sauce infuse the umami flavors into the rice. The aromatic notes of curry powder and the richness of fish sauce elevate the dish, creating a unique culinary experience.
While fresh pineapple provides a juicier and more authentic Thai flavor, canned pineapple chunks can be used as a substitute if fresh pineapple is not available.
Absolutely! Add chopped fresh Thai chilis or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat if you prefer a spicier kick.
The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors is adjusting the amounts of fish sauce, soy sauce, and seasoning sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Yes, omit the shrimp and add more vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
More Thai recipes you'll love
- Best Thai pineapple curry
- Green curry fried rice recipe using green curry paste.
- Sweet and sour chicken with pineapple
- How to cut a pineapple
- Red curry with pineapple
- Vegetable stir fry with leftover turkey meat. (Or roasted chicken)
- Pad Kee Mao
- Eggplant stir fry with Thai basil and chicken.
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Authentic Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Authentic Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp is packed with tropical flavors and is easy to make. You'll love the combination of sweet pineapple, juicy shrimp, and fragrant jasmine rice. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to put together!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 4 cloves garlic, diced
- 1 cup whole cashew
- 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on is fine.
- 2 eggs
- 2 ½ cups cooked jasmine rice
- ⅓ cup carrots, cubed
- ⅓ cup bell peppers, cubed
- ⅓ cup white onions, cubed
- 3 sprigs of green onion, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- 1 tablespoon ground white or black pepper. Adjust as needed for spice level.
- 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar or Monk fruit sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon Maggi seasoning sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons rice wine vinegar, lime juice, or apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ cups pineapple, bite-size pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple. Cut the pineapple in half horizontally and carefully hollow out the center, creating a pineapple bowl. Set aside the chunks of pineapple pieces for later use. See this detailed post on how to cut a pineapple.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and garlic and cook until lightly browned.
- Add the cashews and cook for less than a minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook for a minute, until lightly browned
- Push the ingredients on the wok aside and add the eggs. Lightly scramble them until done.
- Add the cooked rice and mix it well with everything in the wok. Break up the big clumps of rice as needed. Cook for one minute.
- Add all the vegetables to the wok, stir well, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the sauces and the curry powder well, cooking for one minute.
- Add the pineapple, stir well together, and cook for two minutes more or until your desired tenderness of the vegetables and pineapple are.
- Taste and adjust as needed using fish sauce, vinegar, or sugar. That's it! Serve immediately using pineapple bowls for a more festive and fun look. Garnish with your favorite ingredients. ENJOY!
Notes
- Make this quick and easy Prik Nam Pla sauce for the ultimate sauce to serve alongside Thai shrimp fried rice. It's meant to be served with all Thai fried rice dishes!
- Instead of using large plates for serving, make a pineapple boat and use it to serve your fried rice. Learn how to cut a pineapple here.
- For the best results, use day-old rice, which has a firmer texture and won't become too mushy during stir-frying.
- Like white or basmati rice, long-grain rice is best for making fried rice recipes.
- Make the pineapple stir-fry sauce separately and use it later. In a small bowl, combine fish, soy, seasoning, vinegar, sugar, and ground pepper. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
** Thank you so much for visiting my blog! This is truly a passion for me. If you have enjoyed these recipes and appreciate the hard work I put into them, I would love it if you would share them with your friends! Your recommendation is the highest review I could hope for, and I’d appreciate it! **
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: fried rice, rice
- Method: Stir-fried recipes
- Cuisine: Thai
Suwanee says
I"m so happy to hear this, ClauPop! Hope you enjoy it many many more times! Thank you for leaving the comment too.
ClauPop says
Absolutely delicious! We normally order this dish in our local Thai restaurant but let me tell you, this is better than theirs! I’m so glad I found and tried this recipe. It’s our favorite now! Thanks for sharing! 🙏❤️
Suwanee says
I'm so so delighted to hear this, Laurie! ENJOY! Greatly appreciate your comment and star ratings!
Laurie says
My hubby said this is his favorite rice dish EVER! So many great flavors and a beautiful dish. I’ll make this over and over. Thanks Suwannee! I knew I could count on you. Every recipe I’ve tried from your site has been WONDERFUL.
Justin H says
Another delicious recipe with the pie apple in season! Easier to make than expected and the taste was simply divine.
Bobby Haas says
Fantastic recipe with full flavors from the spices and sauces. The pineapple was fresh and adds a lovely tango Ed’s to rice. Wonderful fried rice recipe.