Pineapple Fried Rice

1. 1
   prep · ~10 min

   Get everything ready before you heat the pan.

   1.Make sure the cooked rice is cold and the grains are separated — break up any clumps with your fingers.

   2.Dice the onion, carrot, and bell pepper into small, even pieces.

   3.Cut the fresh pineapple into small chunks and set aside.

   TIPDay-old rice is non-negotiable here — fresh warm rice turns mushy in the wok. If you're in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and chill it in the freezer for 20 minutes.
2. 2
   saute · ~4 min

   Sauté the aromatics and vegetables.

   1.Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

   2.Add the minced garlic and diced onion; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   3.Toss in the diced carrot and bell pepper; cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly but still have a bit of crunch.

   TIPKeep the vegetables moving in the pan — you want a quick sear, not steamed mush.
3. 3
   saute · ~2 min

   Add the pineapple and give it a quick char.

   Add the pineapple chunks to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. The edges should caramelize slightly, intensifying their sweetness.

   TIPDon't stir too often in this step — letting the pineapple sit for 30-second intervals helps those golden edges develop.
4. 4
   fry · ~4 min

   Fry the rice until heated through and lightly crisped.

   1.Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any remaining clumps with the spatula.

   2.Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the rice and sprinkle in the salt and black pepper.

   3.Stir-fry everything together for 3–4 minutes, tossing constantly, until the rice is hot and every grain is coated.

   TIPPress the rice against the pan surface and let it sit undisturbed for 30 seconds at a time — this creates those coveted crispy bits.
5. 5
   garnish · ~1 min

   Fold in the cashews and garnish with cilantro.

   Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the roasted cashews, then transfer the fried rice to a serving platter. Scatter the chopped cilantro over the top.

   TIPAdd the cashews off the heat so they stay crunchy and don't soften in the residual steam.
6. 6
   serve

   Serve immediately while piping hot.

   Spoon the pineapple fried rice into individual bowls. It's a complete meal on its own or pairs well with grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.

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