Fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish, beloved worldwide for its adaptability and rich flavors. This guide will walk you through making perfect fried rice at home, from selecting ingredients to mastering the cooking process.
### Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Protein of your choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu), diced (optional)
### Preparation:
1. **Cook the Rice**: Start with day-old rice as it’s less sticky and holds up better when frying. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry for at least an hour.
2. **Prepare Ingredients**: Dice all vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. If adding protein, cook it beforehand and set aside. Beat the eggs in a small bowl.
3. **Heat the Wok**: Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
4. **Cook the Aromatics**: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the wok. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
5. **Add Vegetables and Protein**: Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes. If you’re using pre-cooked protein like chicken or shrimp, add it now. Stir well to combine with the aromatics.
6. **Scramble the Eggs**: Push the vegetables to the sides of the wok, creating a well in the center. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil into the well and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until they are just set, then mix them with the vegetables and protein.
7. **Incorporate the Rice**: Add the day-old rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is evenly heated and coated with the flavors.
8. **Season**: Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture. Toss well to evenly distribute the sauces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. **Finish with Green Onions**: Add the chopped green onions and give the fried rice one final stir. This adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture to the dish.
10. **Serve**: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Enjoy your homemade fried rice immediately while it's hot.
### Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- **Use Day-Old Rice**: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and clump together. Day-old rice has a drier texture, making it ideal for frying.
- **High Heat**: Cook on high heat to achieve a good sear and to quickly stir-fry the ingredients without overcooking them.
- **Prep Everything**: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as the process moves quickly.
Fried rice is a quick and satisfying meal that can be easily customized to your liking. With these steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
