Chinese Fried Rice is a staple in many households, offering a quick, easy, and delicious way to repurpose leftover rice and create a flavorful meal. With its customizable ingredients, you can make this dish as simple or as elaborate as you’d like.
Packed with protein from eggs and chicken or pork, vibrant vegetables like peas and carrots, and the savory notes of soy sauce and sesame oil, this dish is a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners. It’s not only incredibly satisfying but also a healthier alternative to takeout if you opt for brown rice or lean proteins.
Chinese Fried Rice: A Flavorful and Quick Meal
This recipe captures the essence of restaurant-style Chinese fried rice and allows you to easily recreate it at home.
The beauty of this dish is in its versatility. You can mix in your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and even swap out proteins to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this Chinese Fried Rice will quickly become a favorite.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Equipment: Wok or large skillet
Recipe Title: Chinese Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 1/2 tablespoons oil (divided)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (more eggs can be added if desired)
- 3 drops soy sauce (for the egg)
- 3 drops sesame oil (for the egg)
- 8 ounces cooked lean boneless pork or chicken, chopped
- 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 4 cups cold cooked rice (preferably medium grain, white or brown)
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (add more if desired)
Directions:
- Sauté the Onions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and stir-fry until they turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the onions from the wok and set aside.
- Cook the Egg:
- In a small bowl, mix the lightly beaten egg with 3 drops of soy sauce and 3 drops of sesame oil. Add 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the wok, swirling it to coat the surfaces. Pour in the egg mixture and quickly swirl it in the wok to spread the egg evenly. As the egg sets and puffs, flip it over briefly to cook the other side. Remove the egg from the wok, chop it into small pieces, and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Meat and Vegetables:
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok and heat it. Add the cooked pork or chicken, carrots, peas, and cooked onions. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, ensuring the vegetables and meat are well combined.
- Add the Rice and Mix:
- Stir in the cold cooked rice, making sure the grains are separated. Add the chopped green onions and bean sprouts. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 3 minutes until the rice is heated through and the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Finish the Fried Rice:
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce and fold the chopped egg back into the rice mixture. Stir-fry for 1 more minute to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Chinese Fried Rice hot, directly from the wok. You can place additional soy sauce on the table for anyone who prefers a stronger flavor.
This Chinese Fried Rice is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a larger spread. The variety of textures and flavors makes each bite satisfying, and you can easily adjust the recipe to include your favorite proteins and vegetables. Enjoy this simple, yet irresistible dish!
