Curry Pineapple Fried Rice

Hey there!

This curry pineapple fried rice is one of those magical meals that tastes like takeout, but it’s homemade and packed with way more flavor (and love!).

It’s super colorful, full of cozy curry spice, and that juicy pineapple takes it to a whole new level. Kids love it. Grown-ups love it. Leftovers? Even better the next day.

this recipe!

🍴 What You’ll Need

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1½ teaspoons curry powder
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crushed peanuts or cashews for topping

💛 Why I Love This Recipe

This one’s been in rotation since my kids were toddlers and still picky about veggies. Here’s why we always come back to it:

• It sneaks in veggies with no complaints.
• The pineapple gives it a fun, tropical vibe.
• It’s great for using up leftover rice and veggies.
• Comes together in one pan (less dishes!).
• It’s just as good cold the next day—hello lunchbox win.

🕒 Servings & Time

• Serves: 4
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

🍽 What to Serve With

• Crispy spring rolls
• Thai cucumber salad
• Grilled teriyaki chicken
• A simple mango smoothie for the kiddos

🔥 Pro Tips

1. Use cold rice! Freshly made rice gets mushy in the pan.
2. Don’t skip the curry powder—it gives that signature yellow color and warm flavor.
3. If your kids don’t like spicy, use mild curry powder or reduce the amount.
4. Pineapple from the can works in a pinch—just drain it really well.
5. Let the rice sit in the pan a bit to get those crispy bits (they’re the best part!).

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Non-stick skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons

🔄 Substitutions & Variations

• Rice: Brown rice or cauliflower rice also work.
• Veggies: Swap in corn, carrots, or broccoli.
• Protein: Add tofu, shrimp, or leftover chicken.
• Nut-free: Skip the peanuts/cashews or use sunflower seeds.

⏱ Make Ahead Tips

• You can chop all your veggies and pineapple the day before.
• Use leftover rice from the fridge—it’s the perfect texture for frying.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Scramble the Eggs

Heat 1/2 tablespoon oil in a non-stick pan. Add beaten eggs and scramble until just cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies

Add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add the Pineapple & Peas

Stir in the pineapple chunks and peas. Cook for 2–3 minutes until pineapple starts to caramelize just a bit.

4. Add the Rice & Seasonings

Add the cold cooked rice, curry powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix everything and let it fry for a few minutes so some rice gets crispy.

5. Add the Eggs & Green Onions

Toss the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions back in. Mix gently and cook for another minute.

AI Image Prompt:
Ultra close-up of fluffy scrambled eggs and bright green onions being folded into the fried rice. Everything is golden and steamy. Pan on a modern stainless steel gas stove. with all-natural lighting, taken with an iPhone 15 Pro, top-down shot used by recipe bloggers.

6. Serve & Garnish

Serve hot with optional crushed peanuts or cashews on top!

🧊 Leftovers & Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a pan or microwave. Add a splash of water if rice feels dry.
• Makes a great lunch the next day!

❓ FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple?
Yep! Just drain it well and maybe pat it a little dry with paper towels.

What type of curry powder should I use?
A mild yellow curry powder works great—nothing too spicy unless your fam loves heat.

Can I make it without eggs?
For sure. Just leave them out or use tofu as a protein boost.

🥄 Wrap-Up

There you go—your new favorite dinner that checks all the boxes: easy, fast, colorful, and full of flavor. Make it once and it’ll become part of your weekly meal rotation, promise! Let me know how it goes in the comments and if your kiddos gave it the thumbs up! 🍍💛