Hawaiian Fried Rice

Hawaiian Fried Rice brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, combining the savory goodness of traditional fried rice with sweet island flavors. This colorful dish features chunks of juicy pineapple, tender ham, and crisp vegetables that transport you straight to the beaches of Hawaii with every bite.

Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners, this 45-minute meal transforms leftover rice into something spectacular. The combination of salty, sweet, and umami flavors creates a balanced dish that feels like a vacation for your taste buds—no passport required!

Why You’ll Love This

• Quick and easy 45-minute meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rice
• Sweet and savory flavor combination that appeals to both adults and kids
• One-pan cooking means minimal cleanup after dinner
• Versatile recipe that works as a main dish or satisfying side
• Leftovers taste even better the next day for lunch

Ingredients

• 1½-2 cups ham, chopped
• 1 small white onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup pineapple tidbits
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. A well-seasoned wok or a large non-stick skillet works best for fried rice as it provides plenty of surface area and prevents sticking. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly before adding any ingredients.
2. Add the tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat the surface. Add the chopped ham, diced white onion, and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry these ingredients together for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the ham is lightly browned on the edges.
3. Using your spatula, push the ham and vegetable mixture to one side of the pan to create an empty space on the other side. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into this empty space. Allow them to cook briefly, then use your spatula to scramble them until they're just set but still moist, about 1-2 minutes. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them together with the ham and vegetable mixture.
4. Add the cooked rice and pineapple tidbits to the skillet with the ham, vegetable, and egg mixture. If using cold leftover rice, use your spatula to break apart any clumps as you add it to the pan. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly, allowing the rice to heat through.
5. Drizzle the sesame oil and soy sauce over the rice mixture. Start with the lower amount of soy sauce and adjust to taste after mixing. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-5 more minutes, until all ingredients are well combined and heated through. The rice should be evenly coated with the seasonings and have some light browning for optimal flavor.
6. Remove the pan from heat. If using, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the fried rice for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Hawaiian fried rice immediately while hot, either as a main dish or as a flavorful side.

Tips & Variations

• For best results, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated—fresh rice will become too mushy.
• Swap ham for diced SPAM for an even more authentic Hawaiian twist.
• Add a tablespoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding extra vegetables like edamame or mushrooms.
• For a protein boost, add diced cooked chicken or shrimp along with or instead of the ham.
• If using canned pineapple, drain well and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in your fried rice.

Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Fried Rice works beautifully as a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it alongside teriyaki chicken or grilled fish for a more substantial dinner. For an island-themed feast, pair it with some slow-cooked kalua pork or a fresh tropical fruit salad.

For a refreshing beverage pairing, serve with ice-cold pineapple juice, coconut water, or a fruity tropical punch that complements the sweet notes in the dish.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until steaming hot.
• This dish freezes well for up to 1 month—portion into individual servings before freezing for easy meals.
• The rice should be golden and each grain separate, not clumped together, when properly cooked.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before using.

Is canned pineapple okay if fresh isn’t available?
Absolutely. Just drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding to your fried rice.

Why does my rice clump together when stir-frying?
This usually happens when using freshly cooked, warm rice. For best results, use rice that’s been refrigerated for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! This dish actually develops more flavor overnight. Store in airtight containers and reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

Hawaiian Fried Rice

Recipe by Feel Tasty

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Hawaiian Fried Rice brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, combining the savory goodness of traditional fried rice with sweet island flavors. This colorful dish features chunks of juicy…

Servings8

Prep10 min

Cook20 min

Calories390 kcal

Ingredients

• 1½-2 cups ham, chopped
• 1 small white onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup pineapple tidbits
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Steps

1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. A well-seasoned wok or a large non-stick skillet works best for fried rice as it provides plenty of surface area and prevents sticking. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly before adding any ingredients.
2. Add the tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat the surface. Add the chopped ham, diced white onion, and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry these ingredients together for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the ham is lightly browned on the edges.
3. Using your spatula, push the ham and vegetable mixture to one side of the pan to create an empty space on the other side. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into this empty space. Allow them to cook briefly, then use your spatula to scramble them until they're just set but still moist, about 1-2 minutes. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them together with the ham and vegetable mixture.
4. Add the cooked rice and pineapple tidbits to the skillet with the ham, vegetable, and egg mixture. If using cold leftover rice, use your spatula to break apart any clumps as you add it to the pan. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly, allowing the rice to heat through.
5. Drizzle the sesame oil and soy sauce over the rice mixture. Start with the lower amount of soy sauce and adjust to taste after mixing. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-5 more minutes, until all ingredients are well combined and heated through. The rice should be evenly coated with the seasonings and have some light browning for optimal flavor.
6. Remove the pan from heat. If using, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the fried rice for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Hawaiian fried rice immediately while hot, either as a main dish or as a flavorful side.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 390 kcal