Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp and Bacon
This Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp and Bacon is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Juicy shrimp, crispy bacon, caramelized pineapple, and a drizzle of flavorful Thaimee All Purpose Sauce come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. It’s a quick dinner option with a fun tropical twist on classic fried rice as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired mains. It’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice preferably day-old for the best texture
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 strips of bacon diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup onion diced
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 1 lb large shrimp 21–25 count per pound, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple diced, or canned, well-drained
- 3 tablespoons Thaimee All Purpose Sauce or soy sauce as a substitute
- 1/4 cup toasted cashews chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper optional
- Fresh lime wedges for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the vegetable oil to the pan. Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Eggs: Push the garlic and onion mixture to the side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space and let them cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes. Break the yolks gently and stir slightly to create ribbons of cooked egg.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Be careful not to overcook.
- Caramelize the Pineapple: Stir in the diced pineapple and cook for 2–3 minutes until it starts to caramelize, adding a sweet, smoky flavor to the dish.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Break up the cooked jasmine rice with a spatula and add it to the pan. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
- Drizzle the Thaimee All Purpose Sauce (or soy sauce) over the rice, ensuring even distribution. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the rice is heated through and well coated.
- Finish with Bacon and Cashews: Return the crispy bacon to the pan and add the toasted cashews. Toss everything together until evenly mixed and heated.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for brightness and garnish with cilantro for a pop of green, if desired. Serve with additional lime wedges on the side.
Video
Notes
- This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Thai Pineapple Fried Rice, omitting curry powder, raisins, and tomatoes for a cleaner flavor profile.
- If you don’t have Thaimee All Purpose Sauce, soy sauce is an excellent substitute.
Chef’s Tips:
- Rice Texture: Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool before using.
- Customize It: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or extra veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli.
- Pineapple Bowl: For a fun and tropical presentation, serve the fried rice in a hollowed-out pineapple half.
- Optional Additions: If desired, add a pinch of curry powder for a subtle spice or raisins for a hint of sweetness.