Fried rice is a popular dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with a mix of vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that can be customized based on personal preferences or what ingredients you have at hand. Whether you’re using leftover rice or making a fresh batch, fried rice is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. From home cooks to restaurant chefs, fried rice remains a beloved go-to comfort food around the world.
Quick Facts
| Course | Main Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Chinese |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Calories | 250 per serving |
Equipment Needed
To make fried rice, the following kitchen tools will be essential:
- Wok or large skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, as it allows heat to distribute evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the ingredients while frying.
- Chopping board and knife: To chop vegetables and proteins.
- Rice cooker or pot: To cook the rice before stir-frying.
These tools will help you prepare and cook your fried rice efficiently.
Ingredients
For this basic fried rice recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups of cooked rice (preferably cold rice, best if left overnight)
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
If you don’t have leftover rice, cook the rice ahead of time and allow it to cool. Fresh rice can be too sticky for fried rice, so chilled rice works best for separating the grains.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Now, add the cooked rice to the pan. Stir well, ensuring that the rice gets heated through and combined with the vegetables.
Step 5: Season the Rice
Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the rice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the scrambled eggs back to the pan and stir everything together. If you’re using cooked chicken or shrimp, add it now and stir to incorporate.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top the fried rice with chopped green onions for added flavor and color. Serve hot!
Essential Note
Fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice, and it’s perfect for customizing based on your taste. You can add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or even adjust the seasonings to your liking. Always use cold rice for the best results. If you don’t have soy sauce, feel free to substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
