Hawaiian Fried Rice Ham Pineapple

Packed with sweet pineapple tender ham and savory rice this Hawaiian fried rice brings big tropical flavor to any weeknight dinner without much fuss. I love how it blends comfort food with a dose of fun and makes perfect use of leftovers.

My family always lights up when I make this for dinner. I started whipping it up after we celebrated a summer luau and now it is my go-to when I need something easy but special.

Ingredients

• Low sodium soy sauce: creates the savory backbone and helps control the saltiness Look for naturally brewed for best results
• Sesame seed oil: brings a nutty aromatic flavor Use toasted sesame oil for deeper taste
• Hot sauce: adds heat and zing Choose your favorite brand or type
• Vegetable oil: ensures even frying Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower works
• Red bell pepper: gives the dish color and mild sweetness Pick one that feels firm and glossy
• Diced ham: adds meaty heartiness I like to use leftover glazed ham for extra flavor
• Green onions: offer freshness and a mild onion taste Use both greens and whites for color and taste
• Garlic: infuses the rice with rich savory notes Fresh garlic is best
• Cold cooked white rice: keeps the grains separate and fluffy Use day-old jasmine or basmati for best results
• Large eggs: give richness and bind the rice Choose fresh farm eggs if possible
• Pineapple pieces: bring a juicy sweet tang Canned or fresh both work just drain if using canned and choose pineapple with a strong fragrance for the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl whisk together soy sauce sesame oil and hot sauce until combined Set aside for later

Cook the Veggies and Ham:

Heat half your vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat Add diced red bell pepper and cook for five to seven minutes stirring until peppers are just tender Toss in diced ham and white parts of green onions Cook and stir until ham edges brown and onions soften Add garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant Transfer everything to a separate bowl to use soon

Cook the Rice:

Add the remaining vegetable oil to your skillet and let it get hot Scatter in the cold cooked rice breaking apart any clumps Stir the rice frequently to ensure even heating Cook for eight minutes until every grain is hot and a little toasty

Scramble the Eggs:

Push rice to one side of the pan so you have space Crack eggs onto the empty side Stir rapidly as they cook so they scramble and set without overcooking Should take one to two minutes

Combine and Finish:

Stir the scrambled eggs into the rice along with your reserved ham veggie mix Pour in the prepared sauce Stir thoroughly so every bit gets coated and cook another minute until everything is hot

Add Pineapple and Green Onions:

Turn off the heat Fold in pineapple pieces and green parts of the green onions Toss gently so it is evenly mixed Serve hot and enjoy

Pin

Eggs are my secret star here I love how they tuck richness throughout the dish and bring everything together My son always asks if there are enough pineapple bits for each scoop which is how I know it is really a hit

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best texture reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to revive moisture Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make rice chewy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ham for cooked chicken tofu or shrimp if you like You can use brown rice instead of white for extra fiber or swap bell pepper for carrots Frozen pineapple works in a pinch just thaw and drain well

Pin

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a bright green salad or a scoop of coleslaw to contrast the warmth and sweetness Works beautifully as a main dish or served alongside Hawaiian barbecue or grilled meats

Hawaiian Roots

Fried rice is a comfort food staple across Hawaii evolving with what's on hand Adding pineapple and ham reflects the islands’ blend of flavors and the tradition of colorful weeknight meals Often made with leftovers it is as practical as it is nostalgic

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of rice works best for this dish?

Chilled day-old white rice is ideal, as it keeps the grains separate and the texture firm after stir-frying.

→ Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu work nicely as alternatives if you prefer a different protein option.

→ How do I prevent the fried rice from being mushy?

Always use thoroughly chilled, previously cooked rice. Avoid freshly cooked or warm rice, which tends to clump and soften.

→ Is fresh or canned pineapple better for this dish?

Both are suitable, but fresh pineapple keeps its shape and provides a more vibrant flavor in each bite.

→ What vegetables can I add for more color or nutrition?

Peas, carrots, or corn pair well and add sweetness and texture alongside the bell pepper and onions.