Hawaiian Fried Rice is a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors, often featuring ham, pineapple, and a variety of seasonings that give it a unique taste. This dish brings together the best of Asian and Hawaiian influences, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold and vibrant flavors. In this guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation techniques, variations, and expert tips to make the perfect Hawaiian Fried Rice at home.

Hawaiian Fried Rice

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• Author: JULIA
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Hawaiian Fried Rice is the perfect blend of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and flavorful seasonings. Quick and easy to make, it’s a delicious tropical-inspired dish that brings a taste of the islands straight to your kitchen!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups day-old cooked rice (preferably medium-grain or Jasmine rice)
• 1 cup diced spam or ham
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 2 eggs beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce (optional, for extra sweetness)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

• Chop spam or ham into small cubes.
• Dice pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
• Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
• Mince garlic and chop green onions.

Step 2: Cook the Proteins

• Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add spam or ham and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned and crispy.
• Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

• In the same pan, add a small amount of oil and pour in the beaten eggs.
• Scramble until just cooked, then remove and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic & Pineapple

• Add butter to the pan, followed by minced garlic.
• Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then add pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Rice

• Add day-old rice to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula.
• Drizzle in soy sauce and teriyaki sauce (if using) and mix well.
• Keep stirring for 3-4 minutes to toast the rice slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

• Return spam/ham and eggs to the pan.
• Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil & Green Onions

• Drizzle sesame oil over the fried rice.
• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and mix well.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a fried egg.
• Pair with teriyaki chicken or a fresh tropical salad for a complete meal.

Notes

✔️ Use day-old rice for the best texture—fresh rice is too sticky.
✔️ Adjust seasonings to taste—add more soy sauce for saltiness or teriyaki for sweetness.
✔️ For a vegetarian version, substitute spam/ham with tofu or extra veggies.
✔️ For extra crunch, add bell peppers, carrots, or water chestnuts.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Stir-fryHawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1.5 cups)
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Hawaiian Fried Rice, Pineapple Fried Rice, Spam Fried Rice, Hawaiian Recipes, Fried Rice with Pineapple, Easy Fried Rice Recipe

What is Hawaiian Fried Rice?

Hawaiian Fried Rice is a fusion dish that brings together sweet, salty, and umami flavors. It is inspired by Asian fried rice recipes but includes Hawaiian ingredients like pineapple and spam, making it a unique take on a classic dish.

Origins and Cultural Influence

Hawaiian cuisine is heavily influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino flavors due to the migration of workers to Hawaii’s sugar plantations in the 19th century. Fried rice became a popular dish, adapted with local ingredients like spam, pineapple, and teriyaki sauce.

Key Ingredients in Hawaiian Fried Rice

Hawaiian Fried Rice is simple yet packed with bold flavors. Here are the essential ingredients:

This sweet and savory combination makes Hawaiian Fried Rice a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.

Looking for fun and delicious recipe ideas? Indulge in the best of both worlds with this Crookie Recipe—a genius mix of cookies and croissants! For a savory twist, try these juicy Smash Burger Tacos, the perfect fusion of two comfort food favorites. And if you’re wondering how to level up your cottage cheese, check out these tasty mix-in ideas in What Is Good to Mix in with Cottage Cheese?. Happy cooking! 🍔🌮🍪

The Best Type of Rice for Hawaiian Fried Rice

The type of rice you use can make or break your Hawaiian Fried Rice. The key to achieving the perfect texture—fluffy yet slightly sticky, with distinct grains—lies in choosing the right variety and preparation method.

What Type of Rice Do They Use in Hawaii?

Hawaiians commonly use medium-grain rice, particularly Calrose rice, which is slightly sticky but still holds its shape when stir-fried. This rice variety absorbs flavors well, making it a favorite in many Hawaiian dishes, including Hawaiian plate lunches and poke bowls.

Other rice varieties used in Hawaii include:

• Jasmine rice – Slightly aromatic and soft, used in some Hawaiian-Asian dishes.
• Short-grain sushi rice – Very sticky, often used in musubi but less ideal for fried rice.
• Long-grain rice (Basmati or standard white rice) – Less common but can work if pre-cooked and chilled.

Why is Hawaiian Rice Sticky?

Hawaiian rice tends to be stickier than regular long-grain rice because:

• It has a higher starch content, especially Calrose and sushi rice.
• Cooking methods often include rinsing but not fully removing starch.
• Hawaiians prefer a softer, more cohesive texture for scooping with meats and sauces.

Best Rice Preparation Tips for Fried Rice

To get the perfect texture for Hawaiian Fried Rice, follow these steps:

1. Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and clumpy. Letting it chill overnight in the fridge helps dry out the grains.
2. Rinse before cooking: Washing rice removes excess starch, preventing stickiness.
3. Cook it slightly firm: Use a little less water than usual so the grains stay separate when frying.
4. Let it cool completely: Spread hot rice on a tray and refrigerate it before stir-frying.

Secrets to Making the Best Restaurant-Style Hawaiian Fried Rice

If you’ve ever wondered why restaurant fried rice tastes better than homemade versions, the secret lies in technique and key ingredients. In this section, we’ll break down what makes restaurant-style Hawaiian Fried Rice so flavorful and how you can recreate it at home.

What is the Secret Ingredient to Restaurant Fried Rice?

Many restaurants use a combination of techniques and ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of their fried rice. Here are the top secret ingredients and methods:

1. Use Day-Old Rice

• Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, making it mushy.
• Refrigerating rice overnight dries it out, giving it the ideal texture for stir-frying.

2. Add a Dash of Fish Sauce or Oyster Sauce

• While soy sauce provides saltiness, fish sauce or oyster sauce adds a deeper umami richness.
• Just a teaspoon can make a big difference.

3. Stir-Fry on High Heat

• Restaurants use high-powered wok burners, which add a smoky, charred flavor called “wok hei” (breath of the wok).
• At home, use a hot wok or skillet and keep ingredients moving.

4. Cook Ingredients Separately

• Fry eggs, proteins, and veggies separately before mixing with the rice.
• This prevents sogginess and allows each ingredient to develop its own flavor.

5. Finish with Butter or Sesame Oil

• Many Hawaiian restaurants finish fried rice with butter for a smooth, rich taste.
• Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma—but use it at the end, as it loses flavor when overheated.

What Kind of Rice Do Restaurants Use for Fried Rice?

Most restaurants use medium-grain Calrose rice or Jasmine rice, as both provide the perfect balance of fluffiness and slight stickiness. Short-grain rice is too sticky, while long-grain rice can be too dry.

Chinese vs. Thai Fried Rice – How Does Hawaiian Fried Rice Compare?

Fried rice comes in many variations across different cuisines, each with unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors. In this section, we’ll explore the differences between Chinese, Thai, and Hawaiian fried rice, so you can see what makes Hawaiian Fried Rice stand out.

What is the Difference Between Chinese and Thai Fried Rice?

How Hawaiian Fried Rice Stands Out

Hawaiian Fried Rice takes inspiration from both Chinese and Thai fried rice but introduces a unique tropical twist with ingredients like:

• Pineapple: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory flavors.
• Spam or Ham: A Hawaiian favorite, bringing a salty, smoky flavor.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Instead of just soy sauce, Hawaiian fried rice often includes a touch of teriyaki for extra sweetness.
• Butter Finish: Some recipes include a small amount of butter to give the dish a rich, glossy texture.

Hawaiian Fried Rice is mildly sweet, slightly salty, and packed with umami, making it a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly represents the fusion of Asian and Hawaiian cuisine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Fried Rice

Now that you know what makes Hawaiian Fried Rice unique, it’s time to make it yourself! This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you get the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every bite.

Essential Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the spam/ham into small cubes.
• Dice the pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
• Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
• Mince the garlic and chop the green onions.

2: Cook the Proteins

• Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add spam or ham and stir-fry until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
• Remove from the pan and set aside.

3: Scramble the Eggs

• In the same pan, add a small amount of oil and pour in the beaten eggs.
• Scramble until just cooked, then remove and set aside with the spam/ham.

4: Sauté the Garlic and Pineapple

• Add butter to the pan, followed by minced garlic.
• Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then add pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.

5: Stir-Fry the Rice

• Add day-old rice to the pan and break it up with a spatula.
• Drizzle in soy sauce and teriyaki sauce (if using) and mix well.
• Keep stirring for 3-4 minutes to toast the rice slightly.

6: Combine Everything

• Return the spam/ham and eggs to the pan.
• Toss everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated.

7: Finish with Sesame Oil and Green Onions

• Drizzle sesame oil over the fried rice for extra aroma.
• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and stir well.

8: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds.
• Pair with grilled teriyaki chicken or a fresh tropical salad for a full Hawaiian meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Fried Rice

✔️ Use day-old rice to prevent clumping.
✔️ Don’t overcook the eggs—they should be soft and fluffy.
✔️ Caramelize the pineapple for extra sweetness.
✔️ High heat is key for that authentic fried rice texture.
✔️ Add a squeeze of lime before serving for a fresh twist.

Hawaiian Fried Rice Variations and Substitutes

One of the best things about Hawaiian Fried Rice is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a healthier version, a vegetarian alternative, or a protein-packed upgrade, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences.

Pineapple Fried Rice – Where Did It Come From?

Pineapple Fried Rice has roots in Thai cuisine, where it is often served in a hollowed-out pineapple. However, it became hugely popular in Hawaii due to the islands’ love for tropical flavors and the influence of Asian culinary traditions. Unlike Thai pineapple fried rice, which typically includes curry powder and cashews, Hawaiian Fried Rice focuses more on savory umami flavors with spam, ham, or teriyaki sauce.

Popular Hawaiian Fried Rice Variations

1. Hawaiian Chicken Fried Rice

✅ Replace spam/ham with diced teriyaki chicken for a protein-rich version.
✅ Marinate the chicken in pineapple juice, soy sauce, and garlic before stir-frying.

2. Hawaiian Shrimp Fried Rice

✅ Swap out the spam/ham for shrimp for a seafood twist.
✅ Lightly season shrimp with salt, pepper, and garlic before adding it to the wok.

3. Vegetarian & Vegan Hawaiian Fried Rice

✅ Omit meat and use tofu or veggie protein instead.
✅ Add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and zucchini.
✅ Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

4. Spicy Hawaiian Fried Rice

✅ Add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or diced jalapeños for heat.
✅ Mix in kimchi or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for an umami boost.

5. Low-Carb & Healthy Hawaiian Fried Rice

✅ Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb alternative.
✅ Opt for brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients.
✅ Reduce the oil and soy sauce for a lighter version.

Best Toppings & Garnishes for Extra Flavor

Once your Hawaiian Fried Rice is ready, take it to the next level with these delicious add-ons:

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Hawaiian Fried Rice

Hawaiian Fried Rice is flavorful and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with delicious side dishes and drinks can elevate your meal to a true Hawaiian feast. Whether you’re hosting a luau or simply enjoying a tropical-inspired dinner, these perfect pairings will complement the dish beautifully.

Classic Hawaiian Side Dishes

1. Teriyaki Chicken 🍗

✅ Why it works: The sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki chicken perfectly complements the flavors of pineapple fried rice.
✅ How to make it: Marinate chicken thighs in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, then grill or pan-sear.

2. Kalua Pork 🐖

✅ Why it works: This slow-cooked Hawaiian-style pork is smoky, juicy, and melts in your mouth.
✅ How to make it: Cook pork shoulder in a slow cooker with Hawaiian sea salt and liquid smoke for an authentic flavor.

3. Lomi Lomi Salmon 🐟

✅ Why it works: This fresh Hawaiian salmon salad adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of fried rice.
✅ How to make it: Mix diced fresh salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions with a splash of lime juice.

4. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad 🥗

✅ Why it works: The creamy texture of this mac salad balances the fried rice’s bold flavors.
✅ How to make it: Combine elbow macaroni, mayo, vinegar, shredded carrots, and onions for a classic island-style side.

5. Grilled Pineapple Slices 🍍

✅ Why it works: Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in pineapple, intensifying its sweetness and making it a great contrast to the savory rice.
✅ How to make it: Grill pineapple rings with a touch of honey and cinnamon.

Refreshing Drinks to Pair with Hawaiian Fried Rice

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Fried Rice

Hawaiian Fried Rice is a unique and flavorful dish that blends sweet, savory, and umami flavors. If you have questions about the ingredients, preparation, or history of this dish, we’ve got you covered!

Another popular Hawaiian rice dish is Spam Musubi, a sushi-style snack featuring rice, spam, and nori (seaweed).

Final thoughts  – Why You Should Try Hawaiian Fried Rice

Hawaiian Fried Rice is the perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors, making it a must-try dish for anyone who loves fried rice with a unique twist. With its pineapple, spam or ham, and flavorful seasonings, this dish brings a taste of the islands straight to your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

✔️ Rice Matters – Use medium-grain Calrose or Jasmine rice, preferably day-old, for the best texture.
✔️ Balance of Flavors – The combination of sweet pineapple, salty spam/ham, and umami-rich soy sauce makes this dish stand out.
✔️ Restaurant Secrets – High heat, butter, and a touch of oyster sauce can take your fried rice to the next level.
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – Easily switch up proteins, veggies, and seasonings to suit your taste.
✔️ Perfect Pairings – Serve it with teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or Hawaiian macaroni salad for an authentic island meal.