Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Easy vegan pineapple fried rice is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory stir-fried vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a burst of flavor and vibrant colors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s gluten-free, healthy, and makes delicious leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This vegan pineapple fried rice comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavor-Packed: With its sweet-and-savory tamari sauce and fresh veggies, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well, making it a great option for lunch the next day.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and whole grains, this dish supports a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare vegan pineapple fried rice, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for high-heat cooking and gives an excellent sear to ingredients without needing oil.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking the stir-fry sauce together effectively before adding it to the rice.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables for even cooking and presentation.

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

• 4-5 cups brown rice (cooked and chilled)

For the Veggies

• 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
• 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 combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Pineapple

Start with a hot cast iron skillet that has been seasoned well. Quickly stir-fry the pineapple chunks until they caramelize slightly. Once they reach your desired color, transfer them to a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté Bell Peppers and Onion

Add diced bell pepper and onion to the hot skillet. Stir quickly until they begin to soften and develop color. If needed, splash some water into the pan if things start sticking.

Step 4: Cook Purple Cabbage and Garlic

In the same skillet, add shredded purple cabbage. Stir-fry for about one minute until it begins to wilt. Move it aside; then add a little oil or water if following WFPB guidelines. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Sauce

Add cooked brown rice along with green peas into the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and mix everything gently while removing it from heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro, scallions, and sesame seeds on top. Serve warm with a fresh squeeze of lime juice for added zest!

Enjoy this vibrant vegan pineapple fried rice as your new go-to dish!

How to Serve Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Vegan pineapple fried rice is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to enhance its flavors or pair it with other foods, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Scallions: Offers a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.
• Basil: A fragrant herb that brings an aromatic touch to the dish.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle for a nutty flavor and added texture.
• Chopped Peanuts: Provides extra crunch and richness.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: Introduces a tropical twist that pairs well with the pineapple.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the dish’s flavors, adding acidity that balances sweetness.

Create a Bowl

• Serve Over Greens: Nestle the fried rice on a bed of spinach or lettuce for a refreshing crunch.
• Add Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and richness to each bite.

Enjoy as Leftovers

• Reheat and Serve Cold or Hot: This dish remains delicious when reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. Try enjoying it cold as a salad!

Pin this!

How to Perfect Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

To ensure your vegan pineapple fried rice is bursting with flavor and texture, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, cooked brown rice helps achieve the ideal texture by preventing mushiness.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry at high temperatures for quick cooking and better caramelization of ingredients.
• Balance Sweetness and Saltiness: Adjust tamari and maple syrup amounts to find your perfect sweet-savory ratio.
• Include Seasonal Veggies: Add any fresh vegetables you have on hand for added nutrition and variety.
• Experiment with Spices: Incorporate different spices like cumin or turmeric for unique flavor profiles each time you make this dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to keep everything evenly cooked and prevent steaming.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Pairing vegan pineapple fried rice with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a crunchy contrast.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and accompanies Asian flavors beautifully.
3. Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans make for a nutritious snack or side.
4. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings in another green element that’s both tasty and colorful.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the fried rice with its crispness.
6. Spicy Tofu Skewers: Grilled tofu skewers seasoned with chili sauce add an extra protein punch alongside your dish.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts roasted with garlic offer hearty flavors that pair perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Stir-Fry Sauce: Not preparing the stir-fry sauce ahead of time can lead to bland rice. Always whisk together the sauce ingredients first for a flavorful result.
• Using Cold Rice: Cold, cooked rice is essential for stir-frying. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy, so make sure to chill it before use.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Work in batches if necessary for better caramelization.
• Ignoring the Heat Level: Cooking on too low heat prevents proper browning and flavor development. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients.
• Forgetting About Seasoning Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook. Each ingredient may require different amounts of tamari or spice to balance flavors.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice.

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes! While brown rice is used here, white rice or jasmine rice work well too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice gluten-free?

Simply substitute tamari with a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice stores well and makes great leftovers, perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors!