Fried Rice is a classic and versatile dish that’s easy to make and perfect for using leftover rice. It’s typically made with vegetables, eggs, and a variety of proteins, all seasoned with soy sauce. Here’s a simple recipe for delicious fried rice:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if preferred)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for more flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork (about 1 cup), diced
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or other veggies
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Make sure your rice is cold and separated into grains. If using leftover rice, it’s perfect. If you just cooked it, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, or refrigerate it for a bit to avoid clumping.
- Chop vegetables, garlic, and any protein you are using.
2. Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the peas and carrots (and any other vegetables you’re using) and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
4. Fry the Rice:
- Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining oil to the empty side of the pan, and then add the cold rice. Break up any clumps of rice with a spatula and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, letting the rice get slightly crispy.
5. Season the Rice:
- Once the rice is heated through, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add the cooked eggs back into the pan and toss everything together. Season with white pepper or black pepper to taste.
6. Optional Protein:
- If you’re adding any cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, pork, etc.), add it now and stir to combine.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Tips:
- For the best texture, use day-old rice, as it’s drier and doesn’t get mushy when frying.
- You can adjust the vegetables and protein based on what you have available or prefer.
- For extra flavor, you can also add a little bit of chili paste, sriracha, or hoisin sauce.
Enjoy your homemade Fried Rice! It’s a perfect side dish or a quick meal on its own!