Introduction to Fried Rice

Fried Rice is a versatile and beloved Chinese dish that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Packed with vegetables, protein, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine and a favorite in households worldwide. Whether you’re using chicken, shrimp, or just vegetables, Fried Rice is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Making Fried Rice at home is simple, and this recipe will guide you through the process step by step.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fried Rice recipe is quick, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. The combination of fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and savory seasonings makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Fried Rice at home:

For the Rice:

• 3 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Protein:

• 1/2 pound chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Vegetables:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 2 green onions (chopped)

For the Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 eggs (beaten)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Chopped cilantro (optional)

---

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice works best for Fried Rice because it’s drier and less sticky. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool completely.
2. Break Up Clumps: Use your hands or a fork to break up any clumps in the rice.

Step 2: Marinate the Protein

1. Slice the Protein: Cut the chicken, shrimp, or tofu into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, mix the protein with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Thaw Frozen Vegetables: If using frozen peas and carrots, thaw them by rinsing under warm water.
2. Chop Fresh Vegetables: Dice the bell pepper and onion, and chop the green onions.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Ingredients

1. Heat Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Cook the Protein: Add the marinated protein and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same wok, add the bell pepper, onion, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

1. Push Vegetables to the Side: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok.
2. Add Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the wok and scramble until fully cooked.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add Rice and Protein: Return the cooked protein to the wok and add the rice.
2. Season: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired.
2. Serve: Enjoy hot as a main dish or side.

---

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

---

Health Benefits of Fried Rice

While Fried Rice is often considered a treat, it offers several health benefits when made with fresh ingredients:

1. High-Quality Protein: Chicken, shrimp, or tofu provide essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
2. Rich in Vegetables: Peas, carrots, and bell peppers add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
3. Low in Calories: By using lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, Fried Rice can be a low-calorie meal.
4. Customizable: You can control the sodium and fat content by choosing low-sodium sauces and lean proteins.

---

Ending Notes and Tips

1. Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is less sticky and works best for Fried Rice.
2. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Cook the vegetables until tender-crisp to maintain their texture and nutrients.
3. Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with tofu or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
4. Serve Immediately: Fried Rice is best enjoyed fresh, as the rice may dry out over time.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture.