Sweet Pepper & Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry

Why people make this dish

Pineapple is one of those fruits that pulls double duty as both a kitchen ingredient and a food-therapy staple. In traditional Chinese cooking wisdom, pineapple is associated with aiding digestion, reducing water retention, and gently supporting blood pressure that runs on the low side. Many older folks dismiss pineapple as a “triggering food” (fa wu), but this reputation mainly comes from the bromelain enzyme in raw pineapple, which can cause sensitivity reactions in some people. A quick soak in lightly salted water beforehand neutralises the enzyme, making the fruit perfectly comfortable to eat and cook with.

Combined with brightly coloured sweet peppers — rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene — and marinated chicken thigh, this stir-fry is colourful, fragrant, and genuinely delicious. It is particularly recommended for those who tend to have low blood pressure and find themselves easily tired or light-headed.

Method

1. Debone the chicken thighs and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. Marinate with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little oil for 10–15 minutes.
2. Cut the sweet peppers into strips, removing seeds. Cut the pineapple into chunks (soak in lightly salted water for 5–10 minutes if you prefer, then drain and pat dry).
3. Heat oil in a wok until hot. Stir-fry the ginger paste and sliced dried shallots until fragrant.
4. Add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly golden.
5. Add the sweet peppers and pineapple chunks; toss everything together.
6. Splash in a little Shaoxing wine, add your seasoning, and stir-fry for another minute or two until everything is glossy and aromatic.
7. Plate and serve immediately.

Nourilo’s Tips

Fresh pineapple is an excellent natural anti-inflammatory. If you have a mild sore throat from a bacterial irritation, try chewing on a small piece of fresh pineapple slowly and swallowing the juice — it has a traditionally recognised soothing, antimicrobial quality. This dish works beautifully as a family weeknight stir-fry even if nobody at the table has low blood pressure — it is simply delicious.