Fried rice is a timeless and comforting dish, full of savory flavors and satisfying textures. This recipe is the perfect blend of hearty rice, flavorful veggies, and a rich soy sauce base, with the optional addition of a scrambled egg that makes the dish even more filling.
It’s easy to customize with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it an excellent choice for using up leftovers. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight meal or serving it as part of a larger spread, fried rice is always a crowd-pleaser.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons sesame oil
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3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (for garnish)
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2 green onions, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
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Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, then pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
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Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine.
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Pour the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce over the rice mixture, stirring to evenly coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Drizzle the remaining sesame oil over the fried rice and stir in chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The History of Fried Rice
Fried rice is a beloved dish that has origins deeply rooted in Asian cuisine, particularly in China. It is said to have been invented during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) as a way to use up leftover rice and other ingredients. The dish quickly spread to neighboring countries, including Japan, Korea, and Thailand, where regional variations began to take shape. Fried rice has evolved over centuries, adapting to local tastes, ingredients, and cooking methods. What started as a humble, leftover dish transformed into a globally recognized comfort food that is enjoyed by millions worldwide.
Fried rice was traditionally made with day-old rice because it is firmer and less sticky, making it perfect for stir-frying. The dish was also a clever way to repurpose other leftovers, such as vegetables, proteins, and sauces, minimizing food waste. Over time, fried rice became a staple in Chinese households and eventually found its way into Chinese-American cuisine, where it has become an iconic dish on restaurant menus across the globe.
What Makes Fried Rice So Popular?
Fried rice is not just about convenience; it’s a dish that offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The combination of tender grains of rice with the crispness of vegetables and the richness of scrambled eggs creates a harmonious bite every time. Additionally, the addition of soy sauce or oyster sauce enhances the overall umami flavor, giving the dish depth and complexity.
The beauty of fried rice lies in its versatility. You can add whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out the fridge. Whether it’s leftover chicken, shrimp, tofu, or just a mix of seasonal veggies, fried rice offers endless customization options. This adaptability has made it a favorite for busy families and home cooks looking for quick, satisfying meals.
Each variation reflects the unique ingredients and flavor profiles of its respective region, but they all share the same basic cooking method: stir-frying rice with vegetables and proteins until crispy and fragrant.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
To make the perfect fried rice, there are several tips and tricks that can elevate your dish and ensure that it turns out just right.
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Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky, which makes it difficult to achieve that desired crispy texture. Day-old rice is drier and has a firmer texture, making it ideal for stir-frying. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool to remove excess moisture.
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High Heat Is Key: Fried rice needs to be cooked quickly over high heat. This ensures that the rice gets crispy edges while still maintaining its flavor. A wok or a large skillet is ideal for this, as it allows for better heat distribution and more surface area to cook the rice evenly.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-frying works best when the ingredients are spread out in a single layer. If you overcrowd the pan, the ingredients will steam rather than fry. If making a large batch, cook in batches to maintain the crispiness of the rice.
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Pre-cook Your Proteins and Veggies: Before adding them to the rice, cook any proteins (like chicken, shrimp, or pork) and vegetables separately. This way, they are cooked evenly and can be mixed with the rice without releasing excess moisture.
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Season Well: Soy sauce is the classic seasoning for fried rice, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other sauces like oyster sauce, fish sauce, or hoisin sauce. You can also add a touch of sesame oil or chili paste for extra flavor.
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Garnish: A simple garnish of green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds can take your fried rice to the next level. It adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
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Add a Fried Egg: Top your fried rice with a fried egg for added richness and a satisfying visual element. The runny yolk will blend perfectly with the rice, creating a delicious sauce that enhances the dish.
Conclusion
Fried rice is more than just a quick meal; it’s a versatile and customizable dish that has stood the test of time. Its history, adaptability, and rich flavors make it a go-to comfort food in many households around the world. Whether you’re using it as a way to repurpose leftovers or preparing it as the star of the meal, fried rice is a dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can master the art of fried rice and create a dish that’s perfect every time. Plus, with its health benefits and ability to be tailored to your dietary preferences, it’s no wonder that fried rice remains a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere.