Introduction
Fried rice is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by families and food lovers around the world for generations. With its delicious combination of fluffy rice, savory vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, homemade fried rice is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as a quick weeknight meal or as part of a festive spread, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade fried rice!
video instructions available below 👇
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled rice works best)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced carrots, peas, corn, and diced bell peppers)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame oil for flavor (optional)
– Cooked protein of your choice (such as diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu) – optional
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
– If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly. For best results, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated.
2. Cook the Eggs:
– Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
– Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the skillet and scramble until they are cooked through. Remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables and Aromatics:
– In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
– Add the minced garlic and sliced green onions to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
– Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and aromatics. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Season the Fried Rice:
– Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
– For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil and stir to incorporate.
6. Add the Protein (Optional):
– If you’re adding cooked protein such as diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu, now is the time to add it to the skillet. Stir until the protein is heated through and evenly distributed.
7. Finish and Serve:
– Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet with the fried rice mixture. Stir until the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the rice.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and taste the fried rice. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
– Transfer the homemade fried rice to a serving dish and garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired.
Conclusion
Homemade fried rice is not only delicious and satisfying but also a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. With its simple ingredients and customizable flavors, this versatile dish can be tailored to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein, homemade fried rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking—deliciousness awaits!
