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Fried Rice Recipe





Classic Fried Rice Recipe

Description

Fried rice is a versatile and beloved dish found in many Asian cuisines, known for its savory flavor, vibrant colors, and the perfect way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. This classic fried rice recipe is quick, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, fried rice is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with deliciousness.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions – Fried Rice Recipe

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    • If you haven’t already, cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour, preferably overnight. This helps to dry out the rice, which is essential for making perfect fried rice.
  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. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the Vegetables:
    • Stir in the peas and carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
  5. Combine Rice and Flavorings:
    • Add the chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to get a bit crispy. Then, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well to coat the rice evenly.
  6. Incorporate Eggs and Green Onions:
    • Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and add the chopped green onions. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve:
    • Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish and enjoy it hot, either as a main dish or a side.

Tips and Variations – Fried Rice Recipe

  • Protein Additions: Enhance your fried rice by adding cooked shrimp, chicken, pork, or tofu. Cook the protein separately and add it back to the skillet during the final mixing stage.
  • Vegetable Variations: Use any vegetables you like or have on hand, such as bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are chopped into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
  • Rice Choice: While jasmine rice is traditional, you can also use other types of rice like basmati, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a bit of freshly grated ginger or a splash of rice vinegar for an extra flavor boost.
  • Spicy Fried Rice: Incorporate some chili paste, sriracha, or sliced chili peppers for a spicy kick.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding rice chilling time)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Historical Facts about Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice has a long and rich history that can be traced back to the Sui Dynasty in China (589–618 AD). Originally created as a way to repurpose leftover rice, fried rice quickly became a staple in Chinese households due to its simplicity and versatility. The practice of frying rice with various ingredients was a practical solution to reduce food waste while creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Throughout centuries, fried rice has evolved and adapted to different regional tastes and available ingredients, leading to the creation of numerous variations across Asia. In China, there are many regional versions, such as Yangzhou fried rice, which is known for its inclusion of shrimp, ham, and an assortment of vegetables. Each region has its own twist, often incorporating local ingredients and flavors.

As Chinese immigrants moved to other parts of the world, they brought their culinary traditions with them, introducing fried rice to new audiences and allowing the dish to evolve further. In Southeast Asia, fried rice adapted to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in popular versions like Thai fried rice, which often features fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh herbs, and Indonesian nasi goreng, known for its rich, dark soy sauce and aromatic spices.

In Japan, fried rice is known as “chahan” and is commonly flavored with soy sauce and mirin, featuring ingredients such as pickled vegetables, seafood, and meats. Korean fried rice, or “bokkeumbap,” often includes kimchi, giving it a distinctive spicy and tangy flavor.

Fried rice has also made its way into Western cuisine, where it is frequently featured in Chinese-American restaurants. The American version of fried rice often includes a combination of peas, carrots, onions, and proteins like chicken or shrimp, all stir-fried with soy sauce.

The global popularity of fried rice can be attributed to its adaptability and the ability to be customized to suit any palate or dietary preference. It is a dish that can be made with simple, everyday ingredients yet delivers a complex and satisfying flavor profile.

Furthermore, fried rice is not just a dish for everyday meals but has also become a culinary canvas for chefs worldwide, who experiment with gourmet ingredients and innovative techniques to create new interpretations of this classic dish. From humble beginnings as a way to utilize leftovers, fried rice has grown into a beloved dish celebrated for its simplicity, versatility, and rich cultural heritage.

In conclusion, fried rice Recipe is more than just a meal; it is a testament to culinary ingenuity and the universal appeal of creating delicious, resourceful dishes. Whether enjoyed in a traditional setting or with a modern twist, fried rice continues to be a favorite comfort food for people around the world.