If there’s one dish that’s a ubiquitous menu item at Chinese restaurants, it’s fried rice. This simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish is the ultimate in comfort food – it’s fast, filling, and endlessly customizable. And the best part? You don’t have to go out to enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality fried rice. With just a few easy steps, you can make an amazing version right at home.
The keys to nailing that authentic fried rice flavor and texture are actually pretty straightforward. It’s all about starting with the right ingredients, getting the cooking technique just right, and making a few savvy swaps. Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll be serving up fried rice that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout spot.
1. Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked white rice, chilled (preferably day-old rice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, stirring frequently, until the eggs are cooked through but still moist, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the frozen peas and carrots, garlic, and green onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender.
Add the chilled rice to the skillet and use a spatula to break up any clumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is hot and starting to crisp up.
Push the rice to the side of the skillet to create a well in the center. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir to coat the rice.
Add the cooked eggs back to the skillet and gently fold them into the rice until well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
With the instructions in this article, I hope that you’ll be churning out fried rice that’s just as good (if not better) than your favorite takeout spot. It’s the perfect side dish, but also makes a super satisfying main course when loaded up with additional proteins and veggies.
So the next time a fried rice craving strikes, skip the delivery and make a batch at home. With just a few pantry staples and this foolproof recipe, you can enjoy all the flavor of restaurant-style fried rice from the comfort of your own kitchen.
