Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice

A flavorful fusion of sweet pineapple and savory ham, stir-fried with aromatic spices and vegetables.

This Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice combines savory diced ham with sweet pineapple chunks for a flavorful, Asian-inspired dish. Day-old rice is stir-fried with red onion, peas, carrots, garlic, and ginger, enriched by scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil, with optional red pepper flakes for heat. Finished with green onions, this colorful dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick, balanced meal.

Servings

2

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Fresh
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, minced
½ cup diced carrots
1 cup diced ham
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
Chopped green onions

Packaged
2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
½ cup frozen peas
2–3 tablespoons soy sauce

Seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Pinch of sugar (optional)

Serving
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Preparation

  • Lightly beat the eggs and set aside.
  • Finely chop the red onion, mince the garlic and ginger, and dice the carrots and ham.
  • Drain the pineapple if using canned and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Slice the green onions for garnish.
  • Break up any clumps in the cold, day-old rice so it cooks evenly.
  • Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, and seasonings so everything is ready to go.

Cooking

  • Heat a small drizzle of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the eggs and scramble for 1–2 minutes, just until softly set. Transfer to a plate.
  • Add more oil and cook the onion, garlic, and ginger for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in the carrots and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
  • Add the ham and pineapple and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to lightly caramelize.
  • Increase heat to medium-high. Add the rice and remaining oil, breaking it apart as it fries. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through and lightly toasted.
  • Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and a small pinch of sugar if desired.
  • Stir in the peas and scrambled eggs and cook for 2–3 minutes, tossing until everything is hot and evenly combined.

Serving

  • Spoon the fried rice into bowls.
  • Garnish generously with chopped green onions.
  • Serve hot as a main dish or hearty side.