Hawaiian Fried Rice – A Sweet & Savory Island Twist

If you’re craving something vibrant, flavorful, and unique, Hawaiian Fried Rice is the dish for you. This tropical-inspired meal blends the savory goodness of fried rice with the sweet tang of pineapple and the smoky touch of ham. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknights when you want a dinner that feels both fun and satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works

Hawaiian Fried Rice takes your classic fried rice to the next level by combining sweet and savory flavors in one pan. Juicy pineapple chunks add brightness, while ham or bacon brings smokiness. Tossed with veggies, soy sauce, and fluffy rice, the balance is simply irresistible. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal one-pan meal.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice (day-old works best)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup diced ham (or cooked bacon)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Scramble the eggs, then set aside.
2. Add remaining oil, then sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in diced ham and cook until lightly browned.
3. Toss in peas, carrots, and pineapple chunks. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry until everything is well combined.
5. Pour in soy sauce (and oyster sauce if using), tossing until the rice is evenly coated.
6. Return scrambled eggs to the pan, mixing them in. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot!

Serving Tips

Hawaiian Fried Rice is versatile—you can enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or teriyaki beef for a complete island-inspired meal. It also makes a great option for meal prep since it reheats beautifully.