Best Fried Rice Recipe

Make this simple one-pan Best Fried Rice Recipe for a delicious side dish to go with a range of meals. This dish combines the delightful flavors of sautéed vegetables and fluffy rice, making it a perfect addition to your dinner table or a quick lunch option. It’s easy to whip up and offers a great way to use leftover rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil, each bite is bursting with savory goodness.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for endless variations.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, this fried rice is a nutritious choice compared to take-out.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Best Fried Rice Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients without damaging them.
• Cooking spoon: Ideal for serving and portioning the finished dish.

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Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

• 3 cups rice, (cooked)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¼ large Vidalia onion, (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 1 cup peas and carrots, (frozen)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• green onions
• cilantro, (optional)

How to Make Best Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

In a large skillet or wok, preheat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until onions are soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the garlic from burning.

Step 2: Add Veggies

Add frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until they are partially thawed, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice

Turn the heat up to medium-high. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until it is hot and starts to brown slightly. Reduce heat and push rice to the sides of the pan, creating a hole in the center.

Step 4: Scramble Eggs

Crack the eggs into the middle of the pan. Scramble them until fully cooked, then stir them into the rice mixture.

Step 5: Season the Rice

Mix soy sauce and sesame oil together in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the rice, stirring until all grains are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top your fried rice with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired. Serve hot as an enjoyable side dish or main meal.

How to Serve Best Fried Rice Recipe

Serving your Best Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful experience that can complement many meals. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various proteins and vegetables, making it an ideal side or main course.

With Stir-Fried Chicken

• Juicy pieces of stir-fried chicken add protein and flavor, creating a well-rounded meal.

As a Base for Grilled Shrimp

• Top the fried rice with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist that’s both tasty and visually appealing.

Accompanied by Steamed Broccoli

• The crunch of steamed broccoli adds texture and color, enhancing the overall presentation of your plate.

Paired with Egg Rolls

• Crispy egg rolls make for a perfect appetizer alongside fried rice, adding variety and satisfying crunch.

Served with Teriyaki Tofu

• For a plant-based option, teriyaki tofu brings sweet and savory notes that complement the rice perfectly.

How to Perfect Best Fried Rice Recipe

Making your Best Fried Rice Recipe even better is simple with these helpful tips. Elevate your dish to restaurant quality by following these suggestions.

• Use day-old rice: Stale rice has less moisture, preventing clumping and giving you that ideal fried texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Adjust the heat: Start on medium heat to sauté veggies, then increase to high for frying the rice for optimum crispiness.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, edamame, or corn for more flavors and colors.
• Add protein options: Consider using diced chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness if desired.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like cilantro or additional green onions enhance flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Best Fried Rice Recipe

The Best Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with numerous side dishes. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in spices makes a flavorful accompaniment to fried rice.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables provide a refreshing contrast in texture.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and umami flavors that complement the fried rice nicely.
4. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these green beans offer a crunchy side filled with flavor.
5. Spicy Szechuan Noodles: For those who love heat, Szechuan noodles bring an exciting spice that pairs well with the mild fried rice.
6. Crispy Wontons: Golden-brown wontons filled with cream cheese or veggies add an extra layer of crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the Best Fried Rice Recipe every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold rice: Cold rice can create clumps and uneven heating. Always use freshly cooked or day-old rice that has been cooled properly.
• Overcrowding the pan: Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of frying. Make sure your pan is large enough to allow the rice to spread out for even cooking.
• Not seasoning adequately: Lack of flavor can make your fried rice bland. Ensure you season well with soy sauce and sesame oil for a balanced taste.
• Skipping the scrambling step: Failing to scramble the eggs in the pan can lead to uneven egg distribution. Scramble them first, then mix them into the rice.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale vegetables diminishes flavor. Opt for fresh or frozen veggies that add color and nutrition.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Fried Rice Recipe:

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, brown rice can be used! It will have a nuttier flavor and different texture but should work well with this recipe.

What vegetables work best in fried rice?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or corn. Feel free to customize based on what you have at home!

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of soy sauce should I use?

Using low-sodium soy sauce is ideal as it allows you to control the saltiness while still providing umami flavor.

Can I add protein to this fried rice?

Absolutely! You can include chicken, beef, turkey, or even shrimp if desired. Just cook them thoroughly before adding them into the fried rice.

Final Thoughts

The Best Fried Rice Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables to suit your taste. Give it a try today and enjoy a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with many meals!