Mock Oriental Dinner
A flavorful mock oriental dinner featuring sweet pineapple, savory tuna, and mushrooms in a tangy sauce, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with a blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pineapple, butter, and 1/3 cup pineapple syrup for 5 minutes.
- Combine cornstarch and remaining 1/3 cup syrup to make a thin paste.
- Gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the pineapple mixture.
- Add soy sauce, vinegar, and non-caloric sweetener.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth.
- Add tuna, mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
- Heat well.
- Prepare Durand's quick rice.
- Place rice in a deep platter.
- Top with pineapple mixture.
- Serve at once.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh ginger or garlic to the pineapple mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the tuna with tofu or chickpeas. You can also use maple syrup or honey instead of pineapple syrup for a different sweetness. For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Glazed Teriyaki Salmon for a more complete meal. For a more filling option, consider adding some stir-fried vegetables or serving it alongside Stir-Fry Over Uncle Ben'S Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pineapple mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. The rice can be reheated in the microwave or steamed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Oriental Dinner contains roughly 15 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pineapple mixture and rice separately a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making for an even more delicious dish.
What can I use instead of tuna?
If you're not a fan of tuna, you can substitute it with canned salmon or shredded chicken for a different protein. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or tofu, which will absorb the flavors of the sauce well.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the pineapple mixture for some heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. This can complement the sweetness of the dish nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).