Classic Fried Rice: A Staple in Comfort Food

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:

1. Start by heating one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs and set them aside.
3. 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.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until they’re heated through.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan, and toss everything together until well combined.
8. Lastly, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the fried rice for a fresh crunch and pop of color.
9. Taste your fried rice and adjust the seasoning with extra soy sauce or pepper if needed.
10. 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!