Fried Rice Recipe

Rice: Preferably day-old cooked rice, as it has a firmer texture that works well for frying.

Vegetable oil: Used for stir-frying the ingredients, providing a neutral flavor.

Mixed vegetables: A combination of carrots, peas, and corn adds color and nutrition to the dish.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant and savory base to the fried rice.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Eggs: Beaten and scrambled, they add protein and a fluffy texture.

Green onions: Sliced and used as a garnish, they add a fresh and slightly sharp flavor.

When making fried rice, it's crucial to use day-old cooked rice because it has less moisture, preventing the dish from becoming mushy. If you don't have leftover rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least an hour to achieve a similar texture.

• cooked rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa provides a similar texture and is a great source of protein and fiber.

• cooked rice - Substitute with cauliflower rice: Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that mimics the texture of rice.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option with a rich flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor that complements Asian dishes well.

• carrots, peas, corn mixed vegetables - Substitute with bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas: These vegetables add a variety of textures and flavors.

• carrots, peas, corn mixed vegetables - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and easy to use, providing a similar mix of vegetables.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor and is convenient to use.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative with a similar taste.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a soy-free alternative with a slightly sweeter flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with tofu: Crumbled tofu can mimic the texture of scrambled eggs and is a good protein source.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with chickpea flour batter: A mixture of chickpea flour and water can create a similar texture to eggs.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• green onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a slightly stronger onion flavor and can add depth to the dish.

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
• Transfer the cooled fried rice into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the containers or bags with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the fried rice in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer where it can last up to 3 months.
• When ready to reheat, if refrigerated, simply microwave the fried rice in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• For frozen fried rice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen by microwaving on a lower power setting, stirring occasionally.
• To reheat on the stovetop, add a splash of vegetable oil or soy sauce to a pan and stir-fry the fried rice over medium heat until heated through.
• Avoid reheating fried rice multiple times as it can affect the texture and flavor. Reheat only the portion you plan to consume.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of vegetable oil or sesame oil to the pan.
  3. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover fried rice.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, breaking up any clumps.
  5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the rice is heated through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the fried rice in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir.
  5. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the rice is thoroughly heated.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the fried rice evenly in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check to ensure the rice is heated evenly.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Place the fried rice in a heatproof bowl.
  2. Set up a steamer basket over boiling water.
  3. Place the bowl in the steamer basket.
  4. Cover and steam for about 5-10 minutes until the rice is hot.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the fried rice in the air fryer basket.
  3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Wok: A large, round-bottomed cooking pot that is ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and even heat distribution.

• Large skillet: An alternative to a wok, this flat-bottomed pan is also suitable for stir-frying and can handle the ingredients well.

• Spatula: A flat, broad tool used for flipping and stirring ingredients in the pan to ensure even cooking.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the green onions and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely chop and prepare the vegetables and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the vegetable oil and soy sauce accurately.

• Mixing bowl: Useful for beating the eggs before adding them to the pan.

• Serving spoon: For scooping and serving the finished fried rice.

Use day-old rice: Day-old cooked rice is drier and separates easily, making it perfect for fried rice.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables and mince garlic in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Cook in batches: If making a large quantity, cook in smaller batches to ensure even cooking and better flavor.

Use frozen vegetables: Save time by using pre-mixed frozen carrots, peas, and corn.

Quick egg scramble: Scramble the eggs in the same pan to save on cleanup and cooking time.