Description
Classic Fried Rice
Ingredients:
2 cups cold white rice
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup diced mixed vegetables (carrots, peas)
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok. Scramble eggs and set aside.
Stir-fry garlic, onions, and vegetables until aromatic.
Add rice and soy sauce. Mix and stir for 2 minutes.
Fold in scrambled eggs. Serve hot for a quick dinner.
Take your fried rice to the next level with garlic! What’s your favorite spice to add?
#GarlicFriedRice
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Ensure your rice is cold and clumps are broken up. Have all vegetables diced and ready. Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
2. Cook Eggs: Heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in eggs, scramble until just set, then immediately transfer to a plate.
3. Stir-Fry Aromatics & Veggies: Add remaining oil to the wok. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add diced mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Combine & Season: Increase heat to high. Add the cold rice, breaking up any remaining clumps with your spatula. Pour soy sauce evenly over the rice. Stir-fry continuously for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and well-coated.
5. Final Mix: Add the scrambled eggs back into the wok. Gently fold everything together until the eggs are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this classic fried rice hot as a satisfying main dish or a versatile side. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, teriyaki salmon, or simple pan-seared tofu. For a restaurant-style presentation, garnish with thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil. A side of quick-pickled cucumbers or a simple miso soup completes the meal.
How-to Summary
In summary, perfect fried rice requires cold, day-old rice, high heat, and quick cooking. The process is: scramble eggs first, stir-fry aromatics and vegetables, then combine with rice and soy sauce before folding the eggs back in. The key is to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
It’s not recommended. Fresh rice is too moist and will become mushy. For best results, spread cooked rice on a tray, let it cool completely, and refrigerate for a few hours to dry out.
What other vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, corn, broccoli, and chopped green beans are excellent additions. For a quicker option, use a frozen mixed vegetable blend straight from the freezer.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the wok?
Ensure your wok is properly heated before adding oil (it should shimmer). Also, using enough oil and continuously stirring with a spatula prevents sticking.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegan version, omit the eggs or substitute with crumbled firm tofu. Use a vegan-friendly soy sauce or tamari.
How can I add more protein?
Add diced chicken, shrimp, or ham during the vegetable stir-fry stage. For a simpler boost, stir in edamame or chickpeas with the rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm, fresh rice: This is the top mistake, leading to gummy, clumpy fried rice.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if doubling the recipe to allow proper evaporation and browning.
- Adding soy sauce too early: Adding it directly to the empty wok can cause it to burn. Always add it over the rice.
- Constant stirring: Let the rice sit for 20-30 seconds intervals to develop a slight crispness (wok hei).
- Overcooking the eggs: Scramble them just until set; they will finish cooking when folded back in.
Conclusion
Mastering classic fried rice is about technique more than ingredients. By using cold rice, cooking over high heat, and following the simple step-by-step order, you can create a flavorful, non-greasy dish that rivals your favorite takeout. It’s a fantastic template for creativity—once you have the basics down, experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and sauces like oyster sauce or a dash of sesame oil. Don’t forget the power of garlic, as mentioned, to take your fried rice to the next level!
