Teriyaki Glazed Pineapple Fried Rice: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dish
Fried rice is a beloved dish that transcends cultural boundaries, enjoyed in homes and restaurants worldwide. While traditional fried rice recipes often feature soy sauce and vegetables, this recipe adds a vibrant tropical twist with the addition of teriyaki-glazed pineapple. The result is a flavorful and colorful dish that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For the Pineapple Fried Rice:
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Fried Rice
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple, bell peppers, and onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
Step 4: Glaze the Rice
Pour the teriyaki glaze over the rice and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze has been absorbed and the rice is slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Tips:
- For the best results, use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice will be too moist and sticky for fried rice.
- If you don’t have fresh pineapple, you can use canned pineapple chunks. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to your fried rice, such as carrots, snap peas, or broccoli.
- Serve your teriyaki glazed pineapple fried rice with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Variations:
- Spicy Pineapple Fried Rice: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha or chili paste to the teriyaki glaze for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple and Ham Fried Rice: Add 1 cup of diced ham to the skillet along with the pineapple and vegetables.
- Pineapple and Shrimp Fried Rice: Add 1 pound of cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the pineapple and vegetables.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of teriyaki glazed pineapple fried rice contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 55 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
Conclusion:
Teriyaki glazed pineapple fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its vibrant colors, tropical flavors, and customizable ingredients, this dish is a perfect way to add a touch of the tropics to your next meal. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, this fried rice is sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this tantalizing recipe.
