Chinese fried rice is a popular dish loved around the world for its delicious flavors, quick preparation, and versatility. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or create a fresh batch from scratch, making fried rice at home is a simple and satisfying experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make Chinese fried rice from scratch, covering everything from ingredients to cooking techniques.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make authentic Chinese fried rice, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients. Here’s a list of what you will need:
1. Rice
Type of Rice: The best rice for fried rice is long-grain white rice, such as jasmine rice. It has the right texture—light and fluffy—allowing the grains to separate easily when stir-fried.
Cooked Rice: It’s best to use day-old rice because it’s drier and less sticky than freshly cooked rice. If you’re in a hurry, spread the freshly cooked rice on a tray and let it cool for a few minutes before using it for fried rice.
2. Oil
Vegetable Oil or Sesame Oil is typically used in Chinese fried rice. Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor, while sesame oil adds a nutty depth to the dish. Using a combination of both will provide a great balance of flavor.
3. Eggs
Fried rice usually includes scrambled eggs. They add richness and texture to the dish. You can beat 2–3 eggs for a medium-sized serving of fried rice.
4. Vegetables
Carrots: Fresh carrots add crunch and sweetness. Dice them finely so they cook quickly.
Peas: Frozen peas work perfectly in fried rice. They’re quick to cook and add a pop of color.
Onions: Yellow or green onions (scallions) are commonly used in fried rice. They add a savory depth and fragrance.
Garlic: Garlic provides that unmistakable aromatic flavor that enhances the dish.
5. Protein (Optional)
Chicken: For a classic fried rice, you can add diced cooked chicken. If using raw chicken, it needs to be cooked before adding it to the rice.
Shrimp: Another popular protein choice. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with the flavors in fried rice.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu works great as a protein substitute. It soaks up the flavors of the rice and adds texture.
Pork: Some versions of fried rice include diced pork. You can use leftover cooked pork or cook it fresh.
6. Seasonings
Soy Sauce: The key ingredient for seasoning fried rice. It adds saltiness and depth of flavor. Use a good quality soy sauce for the best results.
Oyster Sauce: Adds an additional layer of umami flavor to your fried rice.
Salt and Pepper: To taste. You can use black pepper or white pepper, which is commonly used in Chinese cooking for a milder heat.
Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps balance the salty flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Ginger (Optional): Fresh ginger adds a slight spiciness and is commonly used in Chinese cooking to complement savory dishes.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to prep all your ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly and quickly. Here’s how:
1. Cook the Rice
If you’re not using leftover rice, start by cooking the rice. For 1 cup of dry rice, use 2 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and let it cool. Spread it out on a baking sheet or tray to help cool it faster.
2. Prepare Vegetables and Proteins
Carrots: Peel and dice the carrots into small pieces. This helps them cook quickly in the frying pan.
Peas: If using frozen peas, simply measure them out. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
Onions and Garlic: Dice the onions and mince the garlic finely so they cook evenly and release their flavors quickly.
Proteins: If using meat or tofu, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. This allows the protein to cook evenly and quickly.
3. Beat the Eggs
Crack 2–3 eggs into a bowl, beat them until the yolks and whites are well combined, and set them aside for later use.
Cooking Chinese Fried Rice
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to cook! Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Heat Your Wok or Skillet
A wok is the traditional cooking vessel for Chinese fried rice, but a large skillet or frying pan will also work. Place the wok over medium-high heat and let it heat up for 2–3 minutes. You want it to be hot enough to cook the ingredients quickly and evenly.
2. Scramble the Eggs
Add 1–2 tablespoons of oil to the wok and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Let them cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally to scramble them. Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. First, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Next, add the carrots and peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for another 2–3 minutes until they are tender but still have some crunch.
4. Add the Protein
If you’re using a protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it to the pan now. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the protein is fully cooked. If you’re using leftover protein, just heat it through in the pan.
5. Add the Rice
Once the vegetables and protein are cooked, it’s time to add the rice. Break up any clumps of rice with a spatula and add it to the wok. Stir everything together and let the rice heat up, making sure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
6. Season the Fried Rice
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice. Add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional), a pinch of sugar, and a dash of white or black pepper. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.
7. Add the Scrambled Eggs Back In
Add the scrambled eggs back into the wok and stir them into the rice. This will ensure the eggs are well-distributed throughout the dish.
8. Finish with Sesame Oil and Scallions
For extra flavor, drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the fried rice and toss everything together. Finally, stir in some chopped green onions (scallions) for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and sticky for fried rice. Day-old rice has a firmer texture that helps each grain separate more easily during stir-frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s best to cook the rice in two or more smaller batches. Overcrowding the wok or pan can prevent the rice from frying properly and result in soggy rice.
High Heat is Key: Chinese fried rice is meant to be cooked on high heat to achieve that delicious, slightly crispy texture. Make sure your wok or pan is hot before adding the rice.
Customize Your Fried Rice: Fried rice is highly customizable. You can add or omit ingredients based on what you have available. Some people add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.
Serving Chinese Fried Rice
Chinese fried rice is typically served as a side dish alongside other Chinese recipes like sweet and sour chicken, Kung Pao chicken, or beef and broccoli. It can also be a main dish on its own, especially when you add protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
To serve, scoop the fried rice onto plates or bowls and garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. It pairs wonderfully with a side of pickled vegetables or egg rolls.
Conclusion
Making Chinese fried rice from scratch is an easy, delicious way to enjoy a classic dish at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful fried rice that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Whether you’re using leftover rice or starting fresh, the key to great fried rice lies in the right ingredients, seasoning, and high-heat cooking. Enjoy experimenting with your own variations, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to satisfy!
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