Fried rice is a beloved dish around the world, and for good reason! It's incredibly versatile, customizable, and surprisingly easy to make at home. This guide will walk you through creating perfectly delicious egg fried rice, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that signature fluffy texture.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is adaptable, so feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what's in your fridge.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Day-old rice is ideal, as it's drier and less likely to become mushy.
- 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Or any neutral-flavored oil.
- 1/2 cup chopped vegetables: Onions, peas, carrots, and scallions are classic choices. Get creative!
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adjust to your taste.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: For that authentic aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Optional additions: Chopped cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu; a sprinkle of chopped green onions for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Get started:
- Prepare your rice: If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a plate to cool and dry slightly. This prevents it from becoming too sticky.
Cooking the rice:
- Heat the oil: In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Scramble the eggs: Add the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through but still slightly moist. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add your chopped vegetables to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
- Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok and break up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Combine everything: Return the scrambled eggs to the wok. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Serve it up: Serve your delicious egg fried rice immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Egg Fried Rice:
- Use day-old rice: This is key to achieving that perfect texture.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- High heat is your friend: Stir-frying at a high heat helps to create a nice, crispy texture.
- Season to taste: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and seasoning to your preference.
- Get creative with your add-ins: Experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and seasonings to create your own signature egg fried rice.
Beyond the Basics: Flavor Variations
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Go vegetarian/vegan: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a delicious vegetarian or vegan version.
This simple recipe allows for endless customization. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect plate of egg fried rice!
