Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
Easy vegan pineapple fried rice is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something delicious, this recipe has you covered. With its vibrant colors, hearty ingredients, and a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice stands out as a healthy and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Colorful: Enjoy the burst of flavors from fresh pineapple and colorful veggies that make every bite exciting.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber and nutrients, it’s a wholesome choice that keeps you feeling full.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand; this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.
- Great for Leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy it again for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy vegan pineapple fried rice recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet (or non-stick skillet)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Perfect for high-heat cooking, it helps achieve that desirable caramelization without needing oil.
- Mixing bowl: Great for combining your stir-fry sauce ingredients quickly before adding them to the pan.
Ingredients
Easy vegan pineapple fried rice made with perfectly stir-fried veggies, a simple sweet and savory tamari sauce, and tons of flavor. Healthy, filling, gluten-free, and makes perfect leftovers.
For the Rice Base
- 4-5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled)
- 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
For the Veggies
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 3/4 cup green peas (frozen & thawed in hot water)
- 1 cup purple cabbage (shredded)
- 1/2 red onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp tamari
- 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp hot sauce or red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
How to Make Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all the stir-fry sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Pineapple
Start with a hot cast iron skillet that has been seasoned well; this way, you won’t need any oil. Quickly stir-fry the pineapple chunks until they caramelize slightly. Once they achieve your desired color, transfer them to a bowl. If you don’t have a seasoned cast iron skillet, use any available skillet with a drizzle of sesame oil or a drop of water.
Step 3: Cook the Bell Pepper and Onion
Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the hot skillet. Stir quickly until they start to gain color. Be careful not to burn anything—if needed, add a splash of water to keep things moving. Once done, scoop them out along with the pineapple.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Cabbage and Garlic
In the same skillet, add shredded purple cabbage and stir-fry for about one minute until it wilts. Move it aside slightly, add a little drop of oil (or water for WFPB diets), then toss in minced garlic. Cook until fragrant while stirring quickly so it doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Add the cooked brown rice along with green peas into the skillet. Pour in your prepared sauce and remove from heat. Gently mix in the reserved vegetables.
Step 6: Final Touches
Sprinkle fresh cilantro, scallions, and sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice with a fresh squeeze of lime!
How to Serve Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Pair with fresh lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fried rice.
With Protein Additions
- Add grilled tofu for an extra layer of texture and protein.
- Serve with edamame on the side for a healthy boost.
In a Wrap
- Use lettuce leaves to create a fun wrap, adding crunch and freshness.
- Combine with avocado slices for creaminess.
As Meal Prep
- Pack into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Top with fresh herbs just before eating to keep it vibrant.
How to Perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
Creating the perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use chilled rice: Using cold, day-old rice prevents sticking and ensures perfect stir-fry texture.
- Stir-fry quickly: High heat and quick cooking help maintain the vegetables’ crispness and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: Balance the tamari sauce with maple syrup based on your taste preference for sweet vs. savory.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like snap peas or carrots for variety and nutrition.
- Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions add brightness and freshness to every bite.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to ensure the flavors come together perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
To complement your Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice, consider these tasty side dishes. They provide delightful contrasts and enhance your meal.
- Spring Rolls: Crisp, fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a light contrast.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami flavor that pairs well with fried rice.
- Stir-Fried Greens: Sautéed bok choy or spinach brings a nutritious side that’s quick to prepare.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles offer a tangy, nutty flavor that complements the fried rice beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out savory flavors.
- Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas bring protein and texture, making them an enjoyable snack alongside your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making vegan pineapple fried rice can be simple, but a few common mistakes might hinder your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the chill: Not using chilled rice can lead to clumpy fried rice. Always use cooked and chilled brown rice for the best results.
- Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they’re tender but still crisp for the perfect bite.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust your sweet and savory tamari sauce as needed.
- Not using high heat: Cooking on low heat can result in soggy rice. Use high heat to achieve that desirable stir-fried texture and caramelization.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or scallions can lessen freshness. Always top with herbs for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses some common queries regarding vegan pineapple fried rice.
Can I customize the ingredients in Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli based on your preference.
How do I make Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce, as tamari is typically gluten-free.
What type of rice works best for Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice?
Brown rice is recommended as it adds fiber and nuttiness, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice if desired.
Is Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It makes great leftovers and can be easily reheated for quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Vegan pineapple fried rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies and proteins, making it a delightful meal any day of the week. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together sweet pineapple, colorful vegetables, and hearty brown rice for a satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, this recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare. The combination of fresh veggies and a simple tamari sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s healthy, gluten-free, and makes fantastic leftovers! Elevate your dining experience with this comforting tropical dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 4–5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled)
- 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 3/4 cup green peas (frozen & thawed)
- 1 cup purple cabbage (shredded)
- 1/2 red onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp tamari
- 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp hot sauce or red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and sauté pineapple chunks until caramelized; set aside.
- Stir-fry red bell pepper and onion in the same skillet until they gain color; remove from heat.
- Add purple cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for one minute before adding garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Combine cooked brown rice and green peas in the skillet; pour in the prepared sauce and mix well.
- Serve garnished with cilantro, scallions, sesame seeds, and lime juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
