Best Fried Rice Recipe

Make this simple one-pan Best Fried Rice Recipe for a delicious side dish to complement a variety of meals. This recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for using up leftover rice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a tasty weeknight meal, this fried rice will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals take-out.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy an easy clean-up with everything cooked in one skillet or wok.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Fried Rice Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while allowing you to chop vegetables safely.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures clean cuts for precise chopping, which speeds up the cooking process.
• Spatula: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly and prevents sticking while cooking.

Ingredients

Make this simple one-pan Better Than Take-Out Fried Rice recipe for a delicious side dish to go with a range of meals.

For the Base

• 3 cups rice, (cooked)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¼ large Vidalia onion, (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup peas and carrots, (frozen)

For Flavoring

• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

For Garnish

• green onions
• cilantro, (optional)

How to Make Best Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

In a large skillet or wok, preheat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until onions are soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the garlic from burning.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until they are partially thawed, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice

Turn the heat up to medium-high and add cooked rice. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until rice is hot and starts to brown. Reduce heat and push rice to the sides of the pan, making a hole in the middle.

Step 4: Scramble Eggs

Crack the eggs into the middle of the pan. Scramble them until fully cooked, then stir them into the rice mixture.

Step 5: Add Sauce

Mix soy sauce and sesame oil together in a small bowl. Pour over the rice mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top your fried rice with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired. Enjoy your tasty homemade dish!

How to Serve Best Fried Rice Recipe

Serving your Best Fried Rice Recipe can elevate any meal. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it alongside various dishes.

Pair with Protein

• Grilled Chicken – The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the savory fried rice well.
• Teriyaki Beef – Sweet and tangy teriyaki beef adds a delicious contrast to the rice.
• Lemon Herb Turkey – A zesty turkey dish balances the richness of fried rice.

Add Freshness

• Crisp Salad – A fresh garden salad provides a crunchy texture and lightness.
• Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles can cut through the richness, adding a refreshing note.
• Steamed Broccoli – Simple, steamed broccoli is an easy and nutritious side that pairs nicely.

Enjoy as a Standalone Dish

• Bowl Meal – Serve the fried rice in a bowl topped with avocado slices for a complete meal.
• Wraps – Use fried rice as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fun twist on serving.

How to Perfect Best Fried Rice Recipe

To make your Best Fried Rice Recipe truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Day-Old Rice – Using leftover rice helps achieve the perfect texture without becoming mushy.
• Heat Your Pan Well – Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients for better browning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Be Creative with Veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for variety and color.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Experiment with soy sauce and sesame oil amounts based on personal preference.
• Garnish for Appeal – Adding green onions or cilantro not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Best Fried Rice Recipe

Complementing your Best Fried Rice Recipe with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crisp texture and aromatic flavor.
2. Sweet and Sour Chicken – This dish offers a sweet contrast, making it an exciting pairing with fried rice.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add a delightful crunch.
4. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup can balance out the meal with its umami flavor.
5. Crispy Tofu Bites – Lightly fried tofu bites offer protein without overwhelming flavors, making them an excellent match.
6. Coconut Curry Vegetables – A mild coconut curry brings warmth and spice that pairs beautifully with fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your Best Fried Rice Recipe experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using wet rice – Wet rice can lead to mushy fried rice. Always use cooked and cooled rice, ideally a day old, as it dries out and fries better.
• Overcrowding the pan – Adding too much rice at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect texture.
• Neglecting flavor balance – Skipping on sauces or seasonings results in bland fried rice. Ensure to measure soy sauce and sesame oil for a well-rounded flavor.
• Not preheating the pan – A cold pan will not sear the ingredients properly. Heat your skillet or wok before adding oil for better results.
• Skipping the veggies – Failing to incorporate vegetables makes the dish less nutritious and colorful. Add a mix of peas, carrots, or any preferred veggies for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Fried Rice Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the Best Fried Rice Recipe.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used but may require longer cooking time. Make sure it is fully cooked and cooled before frying.

What vegetables work best in fried rice?

Peas, carrots, bell peppers, and green beans are excellent choices. Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have!

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the eggs or substitute with scrambled tofu for added protein while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

What is the best way to reheat fried rice?

The stovetop method works best as it helps regain some texture; however, using the microwave is quick and convenient.

Can I customize my fried rice?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like chicken or turkey or include more vegetables based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Best Fried Rice Recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough to pair with various dishes. Customize it by adding your favorite proteins and veggies to create a unique meal every time. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!