Fried Rice, a classic Chinese dish from the Sui Dynasty, is a quick and versatile favorite. Made with cold or leftover rice, stir-fried with fresh veggies, eggs, and savory seasonings, it's the perfect companion to any stir-fry or starter. Ready in under 30 minutes, this customizable dish is a must-try for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Start by heating oil in a wok on high heat. Add garlic and the white parts of spring onions, sautéing them until they release a fragrant aroma.
Toss in green peas and carrots, stir-frying them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn crisp.
Move the vegetables to the edges of the wok, creating an open space in the center. Crack the eggs directly into this cleared area.
Allow the eggs to cook until the edges start to set, then gently scramble them, ensuring they are well combined with the vegetables.
Introduce the leftover or chilled rice into the wok. Add soy sauce, dark soy sauce, black pepper powder, salt, and sesame oil. Stir-fry the mixture thoroughly for 2 to 3 minutes.
To finish, sprinkle the Fried Rice with chopped spring onions, then remove the wok from the heat. Now the fried rice is ready to be savored!
To Serve
Serve the Fried Rice hot and fresh from the wok, accompanied by your favorite stir-fry dishes, whether they feature chicken, shrimp, or a medley of vegetables.
Notes
Essential Tips to Make Perfect Fried Rice:
Seasonings: The key to delicious Chinese rice lies in the seasonings. Don't skimp on them for the best flavor. Get creative with additions like rice vinegar, chili paste, Szechuan sauce, and a touch of brown sugar for an extra flavor kick.
Rice Choice: Medium-grain white rice is a great option, but don't hesitate to try brown, basmati, or jasmine rice for variety. The best results come from using leftover, cooled rice, which has reduced moisture and fries better than freshly cooked rice, helping to prevent clumping and sticking. If you're starting with fresh rice, cool it for at least 2 hours or refrigerate for 30 minutes before frying to achieve the perfect texture.
Cooking the Rice Right: For the perfect foundation of your Fried Rice, cook the rice using your preferred method – rice cooker, instant pot, absorption, or cook and drain. It's crucial to use the correct rice-to-water ratio to prevent the rice from becoming sticky or mushy.
Cookware: A high-quality wok or iron skillet is preferable for that authentic, restaurant-style flavor. If these aren't available, a regular pan will suffice.
Temperature: High heat is crucial for achieving a crispy texture in your fried rice. It ensures quick cooking and prevents the rice from becoming soggy.
Plan Ahead: Stir-frying is a quick cooking method, so it's essential to have all your ingredients prepared and at hand. This preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable cooking experience