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 fried rice recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, it stands out due to its balance of ingredients and ease of preparation. Enjoy the vibrant colors and tastes that make this dish a favorite among all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your fried rice with your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or turkey.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one skillet or wok.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil provides a rich flavor profile that rivals restaurant-style dishes.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It’s an excellent way to use up leftover rice and veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up the Best Fried Rice Recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen gadgets will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking, allowing even heat distribution for perfectly fried rice.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while preparing vegetables, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, garlic, and other ingredients quick and easy.
• Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without sticking, ensuring even cooking throughout.

Ingredients

Make this simple one-pan Better Than Take-Out Fried Rice recipe for a delicious side dish to go with a range of meals.

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: Sauté Onion and Garlic

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 Vegetables

Add frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until partially thawed, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice

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

Step 4: Scramble Eggs

Crack the eggs into the hole in the pan. Scramble them gently until fully cooked. Once done, stir them into the rice mixture.

Step 5: Add Sauce

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

Step 6: Garnish

Top your fried rice with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired. Serve hot as a delightful side dish or main course!

Enjoy crafting your own version of this Best Fried Rice Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Best Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken breast complements the flavors of fried rice beautifully. Simply season the chicken with your favorite spices and grill until cooked through.

As a Base for Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Serve your fried rice underneath a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables. This adds freshness and a variety of textures to your meal.

Accompanied by Sweet and Sour Sauce

• Drizzle some sweet and sour sauce over the fried rice for an extra burst of flavor. The tangy sweetness enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Topped with Sliced Green Onions

• Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor, making them an excellent topping for your fried rice.

How to Perfect Best Fried Rice Recipe

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use rice that has been cooked the day before. It dries out slightly, making it easier to fry without clumping.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, preventing that desirable crispy texture.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust soy sauce or sesame oil levels based on your personal preference for saltiness and flavor.

• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end can enhance the freshness and aroma of your fried rice.

Best Side Dishes for Best Fried Rice Recipe

Pairing your fried rice with complementary side dishes can make for a delightful meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green vegetable that adds color and nutrition; simply steam until bright green and tender-crisp.

2. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: These sweet and savory skewers bring a delicious flavor contrast; marinate chicken pieces in teriyaki sauce before grilling.

3. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that pairs perfectly; whisk eggs into simmering broth for a comforting addition to your meal.

4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add crunch; serve them with dipping sauce for extra enjoyment.

5. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables offer a delightful crunch; serve them alongside your fried rice for a textural contrast.

6. Grilled Shrimp: Simple shrimp seasoned and grilled provide a seafood option that complements the flavors in the fried rice nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried rice can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using wet rice – Wet rice will clump together and become mushy. Always use day-old, dry rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan – Packing too much rice in the skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything fries evenly.
• Skipping the oil – Oil is essential for frying and gives fried rice its signature flavor and texture. Don’t skip it or use too little.
• Neglecting seasoning – A lack of seasoning can make your fried rice bland. Be sure to taste and adjust with soy sauce, sesame oil, or other seasonings as needed.
• Not preheating the skillet – If the skillet isn’t hot enough, you’ll end up steaming the ingredients rather than frying them. Preheat your skillet over medium heat before adding anything.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Place cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and spread rice on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make the Best Fried Rice Recipe vegetarian?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting eggs and using vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for added flavor.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Long-grain rice like Jasmine or Basmati works best since it remains fluffy and separate after cooking.

Can I customize the Best Fried Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp for added flavor.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being sticky?

Using cold, day-old rice is key. Freshly cooked rice tends to be stickier; let it cool in the fridge before using.

Final Thoughts

The Best Fried Rice Recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that rivals take-out!