Fried rice is a popular dish that originated in China and is now enjoyed all over the world. In this article, I will instruct you how to make fried rice step by step and share secrets to help you create the perfect fried rice.
1. What is the Secret To Make Fried Rice?
The secret to making great fried rice is to use cold, cooked rice. When rice is cooked and hot, it has too much moisture, and it will stick together and become mushy when fried. By using leftover rice that has been refrigerated for a few hours, the grains will be firm and separate, and they will crisp up nicely when fried.
Another important factor is to use high heat when frying rice. This will help to create that characteristic crispy texture and prevent the rice from becoming soggy. It’s also essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as fried rice is a quick-cooking dish that requires constant stirring and attention.
Finally, don’t be afraid to add bold flavors to your fried rice, such as soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. These ingredients will help to bring out the umami flavor and add depth to the dish. You can also add your favorite protein and vegetables to make it a complete meal.
2. How To Make Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and chilled rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. When oil hot, add the minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and peas to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender and the onion is translucent.
Step 3: Add the chilled rice to the pan and stir-fry until it is heated through and lightly browned. Then add the beaten eggs to the pan and mix them together with the rice.
Step 4: Add the soy sauce to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until your fried rice absorb all seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro if desired.
3. Tips To Make a Healthier Version of Fried Rice
Use brown rice instead of white rice: Brown rice is a whole grain that contains more fiber and nutrients than white rice. It will also help you feel fuller for longer.
Add more vegetables: Vegetables are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They can also add more color, texture, and flavor to your fried rice. Some good options include carrots, peas, bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms.
Use lean proteins: Instead of using high-fat meats like bacon or sausage, try using lean proteins like chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu. They are lower in calories and saturated fat, and they can still add plenty of flavor and texture to your fried rice.
Use healthy cooking oils: Choose oils that are high in healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as olive oil or avocado oil, instead of using oils high in saturated and trans fats like butter or palm oil.
Use less sodium: Soy sauce is a common ingredient in fried rice, but it can be high in sodium. Try using reduced-sodium soy sauce, or use other seasonings like garlic, ginger, or herbs to add flavor without adding extra salt.
Making fried rice at home is a great way to use up leftover rice and create a delicious and satisfying meal. By following the instructions in this article, you can make a delicious and restaurant-quality fried rice in the comfort of your own home.