Bacon Fried Rice is a delicious and economical dish that combines the savory flavor of bacon with the aromatic essence of Jasmine rice. It’s a perfect way to use leftover rice and create a satisfying meal that’s packed with vegetables and protein. This dish is quick to make, versatile, and cost-effective, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a tasty and hearty meal in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked Jasmine rice
- 1 bag frozen peas and carrots
- 1 bag of bacon bits
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 large eggs, scrambled
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Soy sauce, to taste
- Brown sugar, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Rice: If you haven’t already, cook 2 cups of Jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Allow it to cool and set aside. Using leftover or day-old rice works best as it is less sticky and holds its shape better when frying.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop a small yellow onion. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the fried rice.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onion
- Fry the Bacon Bits: In a large frying pan or wok, cook the bag of bacon bits over medium heat until they are crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits from the pan and set them aside on a paper towel to drain.
- Cook the Onion: In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the onions to the side of the pan and add the scrambled eggs. Cook the eggs until they are fully set and scrambled, breaking them up into small pieces as they cook.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Add the Vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
- Add the Rice: Add the cooked Jasmine rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the Rice: Season the fried rice with salt, pepper, garlic powder, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Start with small amounts and gradually add more until you reach your preferred flavor balance.
- Add the Bacon: Finally, add the cooked bacon bits back into the pan and stir well to evenly distribute the bacon throughout the rice.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Remove the pan from heat and serve the bacon fried rice immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Rice Texture: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice as it is drier and less likely to clump together. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before frying.
- Bacon Variations: You can use regular bacon strips and chop them into bits after cooking if you don’t have pre-cooked bacon bits.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Options: Substitute or add other proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of rice? A: Yes, you can use other types of rice such as long-grain rice, basmati rice, or even brown rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the package instructions.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian? A: To make a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also use vegetarian bacon bits.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover bacon fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to moisten if needed.
Q: Can I freeze this fried rice? A: Yes, you can freeze fried rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan or microwave.
Q: What can I serve with bacon fried rice? A: Bacon fried rice is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a side dish. Pair it with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this dish, replace the Jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. Use the same seasonings and cooking method, but reduce the cooking time for the cauliflower rice to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
Bacon Fried Rice is a flavorful and economical dish that is easy to make and customizable to your taste. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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