Homemade Fried Rice

Homemade Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that you can make with just a few simple ingredients. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice, and it can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, this fried rice is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal.
• Customizable: You can add any vegetables, meats, or proteins you have on hand.
• Flavorsome: The soy sauce and sesame oil provide deep, savory flavors that make the fried rice irresistible.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftover rice and ingredients into something delicious.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice, as it’s less sticky)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 large eggs
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, or pork—optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by gathering and prepping your ingredients. If you’re using day-old rice, make sure it’s separated into individual grains. Chop your vegetables, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. If you’re adding a protein, such as chicken or shrimp, cook it first and set it aside.

2. Scramble the Eggs:

In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan, scrambling them gently until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies and Aromatics:

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté the diced onion and mixed vegetables for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

4. Add the Rice:

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula so that it doesn’t clump together. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the rice is evenly mixed and slightly crispy.

5. Season the Rice:

Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine the Eggs:

Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan and mix them into the rice. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Once the fried rice is heated through and everything is well combined, remove it from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

8. Enjoy:

Serve the fried rice as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and use only vegetables, tofu, or tempeh as a protein replacement.
• Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chilies to give your fried rice a spicy kick.
• Pineapple Fried Rice: Add diced pineapple to the rice for a sweet and savory twist, perfect for summer.
• Bacon Fried Rice: For extra flavor, fry some bacon and chop it into bits, adding it to the rice during the cooking process.
• Curry Fried Rice: Add a teaspoon of curry powder for a unique, aromatic twist on the traditional fried rice.

Storage

• Storage: Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Fried rice can be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. Stir occasionally while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Day-old rice is preferred because it’s drier and less sticky, which makes it easier to fry. However, if you don’t have day-old rice, fresh rice can work too—just make sure to let it cool for a few minutes to avoid clumps.

Can I add different proteins to the fried rice?

Yes! You can add chicken, shrimp, pork, or beef to the fried rice. Just make sure the protein is fully cooked before adding it to the pan with the rice.

Can I use other vegetables in fried rice?

Definitely! You can customize the vegetable mix based on what you have available. Try adding bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.

Is this fried rice gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari), the fried rice will be gluten-free. Just make sure to check the soy sauce ingredients for any wheat-based additives.

Conclusion

Homemade Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using leftover rice or cooking it fresh, it’s a great way to make a delicious meal that’s packed with savory flavors. With the right combination of ingredients, this fried rice is sure to be a family favorite or a go-to side dish that pairs well with any meal.

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