Fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish that you can easily customize to your taste. Here’s a basic recipe for a classic fried rice, along with some tips for making it your own:
Classic Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional, chopped into small pieces)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers, diced)
- 3 green onions (chopped, white and green parts separated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- Chili flakes or hot sauce (optional, if you like it spicy)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Make sure your rice is cold. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, so refrigerate it if it’s hot.
- Chop your vegetables and proteins into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
- Add the beaten eggs to the skillet. Scramble them until just set, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Protein:
- If using pre-cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu), add it to the skillet and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the eggs.
5. Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic (and ginger, if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
6. Add Rice:
- Increase the heat to high and add the cold rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
7. Season:
- Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir well to combine and evenly coat the rice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked eggs and protein to the skillet. Stir to mix everything together and ensure it’s evenly combined.
9. Add Green Onions and Sesame Oil:
- Stir in the chopped green onion (both white and green parts) and sesame oil (if using). Cook for another minute.
10. Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with additional green onions or chili flakes if desired.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- Cold Rice: Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent clumping and makes for better texture. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out before using.
- High Heat: Stir-fry on high heat to get that characteristic crispy texture and to ensure everything cooks quickly and evenly.
- Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, bean sprouts, or different proteins based on what you have on hand.
Enjoy your homemade fried rice!
