Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice

Introduction

Welcome to a burst of tropical flavors with our Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice recipe. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory vegetables and aromatic spices, all stir-fried to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as part of a festive gathering, this recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors without the need for any animal products. Join us as we guide you through creating this mouthwatering vegan dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

  • For the Fried Rice:
    • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled (about 1 cup uncooked rice)
    • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
    • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, bell peppers), diced
    • 1/2 cup firm tofu, diced (optional, for added protein)
    • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 small onion, diced
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
    • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions and let it cool completely. Cold rice works best for fried rice as it prevents clumping.
  2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Add minced garlic and diced onion. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Add Pineapple and Tofu (Optional):
    • If using tofu, add diced tofu to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tofu is lightly browned.
    • Add diced pineapple and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Combine with Rice:
    • Add the cooled cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and mix well with the vegetables and tofu.
  5. Seasoning:
    • Drizzle soy sauce or tamari over the rice mixture. Add maple syrup or agave nectar if desired for a hint of sweetness.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and color.
    • Serve hot as a main dish or as a side to complement other Asian-inspired dishes.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 55g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 8g

SmartPoints (WW):

  • Blue: 8 SmartPoints per serving
  • Green: 8 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple: 8 SmartPoints per serving

Conclusion

Enjoy the exotic flavors and vibrant colors of our Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice, a delightful twist on traditional fried rice that’s entirely plant-based. This dish showcases the perfect harmony between sweet pineapple, savory vegetables, and fragrant jasmine rice, all stir-fried to aromatic perfection. Whether you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply exploring new culinary horizons, this recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes for a complete dining experience. Embrace the tropical goodness and enjoy every flavorful bite of this easy-to-make vegan delight!