Phuket Pineapple Fried Rice

About Phuket Pineapple Fried Rice

Phuket Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful Thai dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, capturing the tropical essence of Thailand's stunning island, Phuket. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, often served in a hollowed-out pineapple shell for added flair. Its origins can be traced back to traditional Thai cuisine, renowned for the harmonious blend of herbs, spices, and fruits.

The Rich History

The history of fried rice dishes in Thailand runs deep, influenced by Chinese culinary techniques that were brought to Southeast Asia centuries ago. The fusion of spicy Thai flavors with Chinese stir-frying methods gave birth to unique local dishes, including Pineapple Fried Rice. Over time, the dish became particularly popular in Phuket due to the island's abundant pineapple harvests.

Ingredients

Gathering the freshest ingredients is the key to achieving authentic flavors in your Phuket Pineapple Fried Rice. Here is a list of everything you will need:

• Cooked Jasmine Rice - 2 cups
• Fresh Pineapple - 1 medium
• Shrimp - 1 cup, peeled and deveined
• Chicken Breast - 1/2 cup, diced
• Eggs - 2
• Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Green Onions - 2, chopped
• Frozen Peas and Carrots - 1/2 cup
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Fish Sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Curry Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Roasted Cashews - 1/4 cup
• Raisins - 1/4 cup
• Lime - 1, cut into wedges
• Cilantro - for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Pineapple

Start by preparing the fresh pineapple. Slice it in half lengthwise, preserving the crown for presentation. Carefully hollow out each half, removing the flesh without breaking the shell. Dice the pineapple flesh into small, bite-sized pieces and set them aside in a bowl. This pineapple shell will be used as a serving bowl for the fried rice, adding an authentic visual element to your dish.

Cooking the Rice

Use cooked jasmine rice that has been cooled. It's important for the rice to be a day old or chilled, as this gives it a firmer texture that prevents sticking during stir-frying, allowing for a perfect fried rice result.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cooking the Proteins

In a large wok or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the diced chicken breast and stir-fry until it turns golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil, then add shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, then remove and set aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Cooking the Eggs

Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Break the eggs into smaller pieces with your spatula, then remove and join with the chicken and shrimp.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the green onions along with the frozen peas and carrots until they are tender. Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back to the pan, followed by the scrambled eggs. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Frying the Rice

Now, add the cooked jasmine rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with the back of your spatula. Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, and sprinkle over the curry powder. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly coated and all ingredients are combined. Finally, add the diced pineapple, roasted cashews, and raisins, giving it a final stir as you let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serving and Enjoying

Presentation Tips

Spoon your Phuket Pineapple Fried Rice into the hollowed-out pineapple shells. This not only enhances the presentation but also makes the dish more immersive as it retains a slight aroma of the fresh pineapple shell.

Garnishing

Garnish the top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side, allowing each diner to squeeze fresh lime juice onto their portion to taste.

How to Enjoy

This dish pairs well with a light, refreshing drink, such as chilled coconut water or a lemongrass-infused iced tea, which complements the rich and tangy flavors of the fried rice. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Thai-style spring rolls or a spicy papaya salad.