Classic Fried Rice: A Staple in Comfort Food
Nothing says comfort like a steaming plate of classic fried rice, complete with all the savory flavors and ingredients that make it a worldwide favorite. This versatile dish can be customized to suit any palate and is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and chilled jasmine or long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), diced and cooked
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
- Start by heating one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs and set them aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil followed by the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until they’re heated through.
- It’s time to add the rice. Break apart any clumps and stir it into the vegetable mixture, ensuring each grain gets coated with oil.
- Once the rice is warm and begins to toast a little, pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan, and toss everything together until well combined.
- Lastly, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the fried rice for a fresh crunch and pop of color.
- Taste your fried rice and adjust the seasoning with extra soy sauce or pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade classic fried rice as a main dish or a satisfying side!
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- Use leftover rice, as freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky, making it difficult to fry and could result in a mushy texture.
- For additional flair, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.
- Cook ingredients separately to ensure each component retains its texture and flavor.
Variations:
Once you master the classic fried rice recipe, feel free to experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and sauces to create your own variations. Whether it’s incorporating pineapple for a sweet twist, or jalapeños for some heat, the possibilities are endless!
This Classic Fried Rice recipe will surely become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s easily adaptable for vegetarians, meat-lovers, and everyone in between. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this timeless dish!