Dump & Bake Fried Rice is an easy and convenient way to enjoy the delicious flavors of fried rice without the hassle of traditional stir-frying. This recipe combines uncooked rice with broth, vegetables, and your choice of protein, all baked together in one dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a simple side dish. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Dump & Bake Fried Rice. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Dump & Bake Fried Rice:
- 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cooked and diced chicken, ham, or tofu
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Mix Ingredients: In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), combine the uncooked rice, chicken or vegetable broth, frozen peas and carrots mix, diced onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 3: Add Protein and Seasoning
- Add Protein: Stir in the cooked and diced chicken, ham, or tofu.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake the Rice
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Eggs
- Create Wells for Eggs: After 45-50 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven. Carefully remove the foil and create small wells in the rice mixture using the back of a spoon.
- Pour Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the wells.
- Return to Oven: Return the baking dish to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the set eggs. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Rice: Use long grain white rice for best results. Short grain or brown rice may require adjustments in cooking time and liquid.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds extra flavor to the rice. Water can be used as a substitute if needed.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs can also be drizzled over the rice mixture before baking for a more evenly distributed egg texture.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the rice mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Additional Vegetables: Add bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for extra vegetables and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked fried rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with Dump & Bake Fried Rice?
A: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired main dishes.
Q5: Can I use a different type of rice?
A: Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. For example, brown rice will take longer to cook and may require more liquid.
Dump & Bake Fried Rice is a convenient and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its combination of rice, vegetables, protein, and flavorful seasonings, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, an easy side dish, or a comforting meal, this Dump & Bake Fried Rice is an excellent choice. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
