Ingredients:
- Rice: 4 cups cooked long-grain white rice (Day-old, chilled rice works BEST)
- Oil: 2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable, canola, peanut)
- Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Vegetables: 1 cup frozen peas & carrots mix (or your favorite fresh stir-fry veggies)
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten
- Protein (Optional): 1/2 cup cooked, diced protein of your choice (shrimp, chicken, pork, tofu, etc.)
Sauces:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds great depth)
Equipment:
- Large wok or skillet
- Spatula
Instructions:
Prep is Key:
- Cook & Chill the Rice: The day before is ideal; if not, cook and spread on a baking sheet to cool fast. Cold rice is essential to prevent mushiness.
- Make Egg “Scramble”: Beat eggs lightly with a pinch of salt.
- Chop It Up: Dice onions, mince garlic, and prepare your chosen protein and vegetables.
Stir-Fry Time:
- Heat the Wok: Warm your wok/skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Aromatics: Sauté onion until softened (about 2 minutes). Add garlic, cook 30 seconds more.
- Push It Aside: Push onions/garlic to the side. Add another tablespoon of oil to the empty space.
- Eggs: Pour in beaten eggs. Scramble, then mix with the aromatics.
- Protein: Add your protein (if using), and cook until heated through.
Fried Rice Spectacular:
- Veggies: Stir in your peas, carrots (or other vegetables), and cook briefly until heated.
- The Main Event (Rice): Add the chilled rice, breaking up clumps with your spatula.
- Sauce & Toss: Drizzle in soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 more minutes until the rice is heated through and grains are separate.
Serve it Up!
- Taste and adjust seasonings with extra soy sauce or sesame oil, if needed.
- Garnish with chopped green onion (optional) and enjoy immediately!
Tips:
- Customize It: Add-ins are limitless: bean sprouts, chopped broccoli florets, mushrooms, etc.
- For extra flavor: A teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with your garlic is delicious.
- Heat Control: Work with high heat for the best texture.
- Wok Substitute: A large skillet works perfectly, just make sure it’s big enough.