Introduction
Fried rice is a popular dish enjoyed all around the world, whether it’s a staple in your local Chinese restaurant or homemade comfort food. However, as simple as it may seem, cooking perfect fried rice can be a challenge without the right techniques. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about how to cook delicious fried rice.
Start with the basics
The foundation of a great fried rice lies in the ingredients used. For a basic fried rice dish, you will need: cooked rice, vegetables, eggs, protein (meat or tofu), and seasonings/oil. To get started, cook your rice and prep your veggies and protein. We recommend cooking the rice earlier in the day and chilling it in the fridge, as drier rice leads to better fried rice.
Next up, heat a non-stick pan over high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add in your protein and stir-fry until it’s cooked through. Next, add in your vegetables and stir fry until they’re cooked and crisp. Lastly, add in your rice and eggs, stirring continuously until everything is heated through.
Note that the level of heat is vital! Stir fry on high heat for best results. Using cold and drier rice will also help your fried rice retain its shape and texture.
Tips to add flavor
Now that you’ve got the basics down, you can begin adding flavor by using seasonings and sauces. Soy sauce and sesame oil are two basic ingredients commonly used in fried rice. Also add black pepper, salt (sparingly), oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, and fish sauce to taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see which ones work for you!
Try to add the seasonings early during the cooking process to give the flavors time to meld, but be careful not to overdo it. You don’t want your fried rice to be too salty or overpowering. Add a tablespoon of water, mix and taste, before adding any more seasonings. Balance is key!
Vegetable Fried Rice
For those looking to make a vegetable-only version of the dish, there are several benefits in doing so! Firstly, consuming more vegetables is generally a good thing health-wise. Secondly, it is a great option for those on a budget.
When preparing vegetables, chop them consistently to ensure they cook evenly and look visually appealing in the dish. Vegetables like scallions, carrots, and peas are common in fried rice.
The key is to add the vegetables in increments, starting with the ones that take the longest to cook. That way, the vegetables have a consistent tenderness. If using frozen vegetables, defrost them ahead of time and thoroughly drain any excess liquid before adding to the pan.
Fried Rice with Leftovers
Fried rice is an excellent way to reuse leftovers and turn them into a delicious and satisfying meal. Use any leftover meats or veggies you may have in your fridge, and incorporate them into your fried rice!
When using leftover rice, make sure it is cold and drier to prevent it from clumping together. Add any leftover meat or veggies early in the cooking process, and add in cooked eggs at the end. Don’t forget to balance the flavors by seasoning well and tasting throughout the process.
Fried Rice Alternatives
Traditional fried rice calls for rice, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative and experiment with other ingredients. For example, cauliflower rice is a great alternative for those looking to cut down on carbs. Quinoa can also be used for a healthy alternative.
The same steps apply to alternative rice options, except they may require different cook times. Quinoa, for example, can easily become soggy if over-stirred, so be gentle when cooking. Add in your ingredients once your alternative rice has thoroughly cooked.
Meal Prep Fried Rice
Meal prepping is a great way to ensure you always have delicious food on hand! Fried rice is an excellent dish to prep ahead as it keeps well in the fridge.
Cook a large batch of rice and prep your ingredients, then stir fry everything as usual. Once done, divide into containers, and store in the fridge until ready to reheat. This way, you can have a quick and tasty meal on hand anytime you need it.
Creative Toppings
If you’re looking for ways to elevate your fried rice game, experimenting with toppings can be a great way to do so. For example, try adding Kimchi for a spicy and tangy hit, or pineapple for a sweet tropical touch. Other toppings include chili oil, cilantro, and chopped nuts.
Make sure to add toppings lightly so as not to overwhelm the dish’s balance. You can also experiment with different combinations to see what works for your taste buds!
Conclusion
Cooking fried rice is a fun and versatile process that allows for a lot of creativity and experimentation. By following the basic steps and adding your favorite flavors and ingredients, you can create a dish that suits your unique taste buds. With these tips and tricks, you are now armed and ready to create delicious fried rice in your own home.
