Irresistible Hawaiian Fried Rice Recipe – Sweet, Savory & Easy to Make!

Hawaiian Fried Rice is the perfect dish to bring a tropical twist to your meal rotation. With the combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken ham, and the rich, umami flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil, this fried rice recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or just want a fun new dish, Hawaiian Fried Rice will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

The best part about Hawaiian Fried Rice is that it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and easy to customize to your liking. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rice you might have in the fridge. This recipe calls for diced chicken ham, a healthier alternative to the classic pork ham, and it balances the richness of the ham with the fresh, juicy flavor of pineapple. The vibrant colors and the delicious mix of textures make it a visually appealing dish as well.

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What Makes This Hawaiian Fried Rice So Special?

The magic of Hawaiian Fried Rice lies in its perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The sweet, tangy pineapple complements the savory chicken ham, while the soy sauce and sesame oil give the rice a rich depth of flavor. When you toss everything together, you get a perfect harmony of tastes in every bite. The mix of vegetables, pineapple, and ham ensures you get a wide range of textures—crunchy, tender, juicy, and crispy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience for your taste buds!

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Key Ingredients for Hawaiian Fried Rice

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this Hawaiian Fried Rice dish so irresistible.

• Cooked Jasmine Rice: The key to making great fried rice is using day-old rice. It’s drier, which prevents it from becoming mushy. If you don’t have day-old rice, freshly cooked rice spread out on a baking sheet will also work well.
• Chicken Ham: A healthier alternative to pork ham, chicken ham provides a light yet savory protein option that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pineapple.
• Pineapple Tidbits: The star of this dish is the pineapple, adding a fresh sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce and savory ham.
• Soy Sauce & Sesame Oil: These two ingredients are essential for giving the fried rice its rich umami flavor and deep, savory taste.
• Eggs: Scrambled eggs bring texture and richness to the dish, tying all the other ingredients together.
• Veggies: Onion and red bell pepper add crunch and vibrancy, complementing the soft texture of the rice and pineapple.

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Step-by-Step Directions for Making Hawaiian Fried Rice

Making Hawaiian Fried Rice is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

The first step in making Hawaiian Fried Rice is to prepare the rice. If you’re using day-old rice, you’re ahead of the game! Fresh rice works fine too, but you’ll need to spread it out on a baking sheet and allow it to cool and dry slightly before using it. This helps prevent it from getting too sticky when frying.

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Step 2: Cook the Ham and Vegetables

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced chicken ham, and sauté it with the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the ham is lightly browned and the vegetables are tender.

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Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked ham and vegetables to one side of the pan, making room for the eggs. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook until fully scrambled, making sure to mix them into the ham and vegetables once they’re done.

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Step 4: Add Rice and Pineapple

Now it’s time to bring in the rice! Add the cooked jasmine rice and the pineapple tidbits into the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the rice gets coated in the savory flavors of the ham and veggies.

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Step 5: Season the Fried Rice

Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir everything together so that the sauce coats every grain of rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as the soy sauce already adds a lot of seasoning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Hawaiian Fried Rice with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the vibrant, tropical flavors!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Fried Rice

Q: Can I use regular ham instead of chicken ham?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken ham with regular ham or even bacon if you prefer. Chicken ham is just a lighter alternative, but feel free to experiment with whatever protein you have on hand.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes! To make a vegetarian version of Hawaiian Fried Rice, simply omit the chicken ham and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

A: Yes, fresh pineapple works wonderfully in this recipe! Just make sure to cut it into small tidbits, and be sure to drain the excess juice before adding it to the fried rice.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While Hawaiian Fried Rice is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet with a little oil or water to keep it from drying out.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Hawaiian Fried Rice is a perfect dish for a quick, flavorful meal. It’s easy to make, packed with a combination of sweet and savory flavors, and works great as a main dish or a side. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a weekend brunch, or just looking for a quick lunch, this Hawaiian Fried Rice recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the tropical, mouthwatering goodness of this amazing dish!

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