Fried rice

Instructions

1. Prep the Rice

• If you’re using fresh rice, cook it first and let it cool to room temperature. Fresh rice can sometimes be too soft and sticky for frying, so ideally, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated. The grains will firm up overnight, making them easier to separate and fry.
• Fluff the rice with a fork before cooking to ensure that the grains are separate.

2. Cook the Eggs

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Stir gently as they cook, breaking them into small pieces. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring constantly. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the frozen peas (or any other vegetables you’re using) and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. If you’re using other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms, add them at this point and cook until tender.

4. Add the Rice

• Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add the cooked rice to the empty side of the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice and spread it out in an even layer.
• Let the rice sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes so it can get a bit crispy on the bottom. This gives the rice that signature fried flavor and texture.

5. Season the Rice

• Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauces. You can adjust the amount of soy sauce depending on your preference for saltiness.
• Add black pepper to taste and a few drops of sesame oil for a nutty finish. Stir everything well to combine.

6. Add the Cooked Eggs

• Return the cooked eggs to the pan, breaking them up into smaller pieces if needed. Stir everything together until the eggs are fully incorporated into the rice and everything is heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Turn off the heat and garnish the fried rice with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and a burst of color.
• Serve the fried rice as is or pair it with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Fried Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky for fried rice. Day-old rice that’s been cooled in the fridge is the best option because it firms up and becomes easier to fry without clumping together. If you must use fresh rice, let it cool completely and spread it out on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. High Heat is Key: Use medium-high to high heat for frying the rice. This ensures that the rice gets crispy and fried, not steamed.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook the fried rice in two batches. Overcrowding the pan can prevent the rice from frying properly and lead to soggy rice.
4. Customize Your Veggies and Protein: Fried rice is a perfect dish for using up leftovers. Feel free to add any cooked protein (like leftover chicken, shrimp, or pork) or vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms).
5. Go Light on the Soy Sauce: If you’re using soy sauce, be careful not to overdo it, as the dish can quickly become too salty. If you’re concerned about salt intake, use low-sodium soy sauce.

Variations of Fried Rice

1. Kimchi Fried Rice: Add some kimchi to your fried rice for a Korean-inspired twist. It adds a tangy, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory rice. You can also top the dish with a fried egg for extra richness.
2. Pineapple Fried Rice: For a sweeter, tropical take, add some pineapple chunks to your fried rice. This version is often served with shrimp or chicken and gives the dish a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
3. Eggless Fried Rice: For a lighter version, skip the eggs and focus on the veggies and protein of your choice. Add extra flavor by using more garlic, ginger, or a splash of rice vinegar.
4. Seafood Fried Rice: Add some shrimp, squid, or scallops for a delicious seafood version of fried rice. The natural sweetness of the seafood elevates the dish and makes it a more filling option.
5. Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit the meat and make a vegetarian fried rice with a medley of fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and peas. You can also add some tofu for extra protein.

Why Fried Rice is a Go-To Dish

Fried rice is more than just a way to use up leftover rice—it’s a quick, versatile, and deeply satisfying dish in its own right. The combination of savory soy sauce, crispy rice, and your choice of protein and vegetables makes fried rice a perfect meal that can be tailored to any occasion. It’s an excellent choice for feeding a crowd, and because it’s so customizable, you can adjust it based on what’s in your fridge.

Whether you’re making it as a side dish for a larger meal or turning it into a complete meal on its own, fried rice is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it a great option for families or anyone looking for an affordable yet delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

Fried rice is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, flavorful, and always a hit with family and friends. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of creativity, you can create a fried rice that suits your tastes perfectly. From simple to gourmet, fried rice is a dish that’s ready to be adapted to any flavor profile or dietary need.

Give this classic fried rice recipe a try and enjoy the satisfying crunch, savory flavors, and flexibility that this dish offers. You’ll be making it over and over again!