If you’re in the mood for something hearty, flavorful, and just a little tropical, Hawaiian pork fried rice is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. It combines the savory depth of pork with the sweetness of pineapple and the comfort of fried rice into one easy, satisfying meal.
This dish is all about balance. You get the salty, umami-rich flavor from tender chunks of cooked pork, whether it’s leftover roast, grilled pork chops, or pulled pork. The pineapple adds that iconic Hawaiian touch, bringing a juicy sweetness that complements the meat beautifully. It’s a playful combination that turns basic fried rice into something a little more exciting.
The base starts with cold, day-old rice, which gives fried rice that ideal texture. Tossed in a hot pan with a bit of oil, it crisps up lightly and absorbs all the other flavors. Along with the pork and pineapple, you can add vegetables like diced carrots, peas, onions, or bell peppers. A splash of soy sauce ties everything together, while a little garlic and ginger add depth. For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving.
Hawaiian pork fried rice is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. Serve it on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats or a fresh salad. It’s kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and makes a fantastic lunch the next day.
The best part? You don’t need a trip to the islands to enjoy these tropical flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and one skillet, you can bring the taste of Hawaii right into your kitchen. It’s comfort food with a sunny, laid-back twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white rice cooked
- 1 cup Pineapple diced
- 1 cup pork diced cooked
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup Green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
- 2 eggs beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add diced pork and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Push pork to one side of the skillet and add beaten eggs to the other side.
- Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix with the pork.
- Add cooked rice, pineapple, peas, red bell pepper, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and ginger powder to the skillet.
- Stir-fry everything together until well combined and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Wow, this recipe is amazing! I love the mix of sweet and savory flavors. Will definitely make it again!
Too much pineapple for my taste. The rice got soggy. Not a fan.
Soggy rice? That’s on you for not cooking it right! Follow the instructions, dude.
I totally get what you mean! Pineapple can be overpowering sometimes. Maybe try reducing it next time?
My kids loved it but I think too much soy sauce.
Totally agree! The soy sauce can be overwhelming. Maybe try reducing it next time?
Too many ingredients, I’m not a chef! Just give me plain rice please.
I get that! But this dish is super tasty and you can always simplify it! Just try the rice and add some soy sauce!
This is the BEST fried rice I’ve ever made. Will make again!
Pretty good, but I’d cut the sesame oil to 1 tbsp next time. Mine tasted a bit too rich/oily. Still, the garlic step smells amazing and the veggies stayed crisp-ish.
Totally agree—1 tbsp sesame oil can be a lot depending on the brand. I’d try 2 tsp first and keep the garlic step exactly the same; it really does smell amazing. Also, cooking the rice a bit drier helps with that oily feel.
Huh, I actually like mine richer 😅 I used the full 1 tbsp sesame oil and it came out perfect. Maybe your rice was still a little wet? If you cut it, the flavor might get bland. Next time, maybe add more soy sauce instead of changing oil.
This was amazing! The pineapple gave it such a fresh taste. Will definitely make again!
Glad you loved it! The pineapple really adds a nice twist, doesn’t it?
I dunno. I feel like this doesn’t look like real fried rice. Shouldn’t there be more soy sauce? Kinda skeptical.
Good idea with the pineapple, but I think 2 tbsp soy sauce might be a bit much depending on your rice. Mine turned out salty, next time I’ll cut it down and maybe add a bit more pineapple.
Hmm. I tried it and it was okay but I think I could have just ordered takeout for less mess.