Fried rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and adding a variety of vegetables and proteins. It’s quick, easy, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Follow this step-by-step guide to make delicious fried rice at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old rice as it fries better
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn, fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup cooked protein (optional – such as shrimp, chicken, beef, or tofu, cut into small pieces)
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Additional add-ins: bean sprouts, diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, cashews, or any of your favorite ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Make sure the rice is cold and day-old, which helps it fry better and prevents it from becoming mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Chop the vegetables and any protein you plan to add. This ensures everything is ready to go once you start cooking.
Step 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 cook, stirring gently, until they are scrambled and just set. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables (and any additional add-ins like bell peppers or bean sprouts) to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are fully thawed and heated through.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Protein
- Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice for 4-5 minutes, or until it is heated through and starting to get a bit crispy.
- If using a cooked protein, add it to the skillet at this stage, stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables.
Step 5: Season the Fried Rice
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using). Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce throughout the rice. Adjust the amount of soy sauce to taste.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Add the Eggs and Garnish
- Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet, breaking them up into smaller pieces as you stir them into the rice.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and any additional toppings like cashews or pineapple chunks.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the fried rice hot, either on its own or as a side dish.
- Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of your homemade fried rice!
Cook’s Notes
- Day-Old Rice: Using day-old rice is key to achieving the best texture in fried rice. The rice grains are drier and less sticky, which helps them fry up nicely without becoming mushy.
- Vegetables: You can use any combination of fresh or frozen vegetables. Just make sure they are cut into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
- Protein: Fried rice is a great way to use up leftover cooked protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp. Tofu is also a good vegetarian option.
Variations
Spicy Fried Rice
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili paste or a splash of hot sauce to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Pineapple Fried Rice
Add 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks to the fried rice for a sweet and tangy flavor. Garnish with chopped cashews and a squeeze of lime juice.
Vegetarian Fried Rice
Skip the protein and load up on vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
Garlic Butter Fried Rice
Replace the vegetable oil with butter and add an extra clove of garlic for a rich, buttery flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Yes, but it’s recommended to use day-old rice for the best texture. If you need to use fresh rice, cool it quickly by spreading it on a baking sheet and refrigerating it for about 30 minutes.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
3. Can I freeze fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze fried rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with fried rice?
Fried rice can be served on its own as a main dish or as a side dish with other Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fried vegetables, spring rolls, or grilled chicken.
5. Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice like jasmine, basmati, or brown rice. Just make sure the rice is cooked and cooled before using it in the recipe.
Homemade fried rice is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers and creating a delicious, satisfying meal. With its customizable ingredients and flavorful seasoning, fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or the main event, this recipe will guide you to a perfect plate of fried rice every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
