Fried Rice That’s Even Better Than Restaurant Takeout

Instructions: How to Make Fried Rice

This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout-style fried rice without the wait. Let’s walk through the steps to create a delicious, homemade fried rice that’s packed with flavor.

1. Prep the Ingredients:
   • Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing them. If using leftover rice, break up any clumps with a fork. The best fried rice is made with cold rice because it’s drier and fries up better without becoming mushy.
   • If you’re adding a protein (such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu), cook it ahead of time and set it aside. Dice it into small pieces for easy mixing.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
   • Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
   • Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan. Add another tablespoon of oil to the empty side and pour in the beaten eggs. Let the eggs cook for a minute or two, stirring occasionally until fully scrambled and cooked through.
   • Once the eggs are scrambled, mix them in with the cooked vegetables.
4. Add the Rice:
   • Add the cold, day-old rice to the skillet or wok. Break up any large clumps and stir-fry the rice with the vegetables and eggs for about 3-4 minutes until it’s heated through and begins to get a little crispy around the edges.
5. Season the Fried Rice:
   • Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and pepper to the rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning. Adjust the soy sauce to taste, depending on how salty you like your fried rice.
   • If you’re adding any cooked protein (like chicken, shrimp, or tofu), now is the time to stir it in and let it warm through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the rice is fully cooked and seasoned, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with sliced green onions for a burst of fresh flavor and a pop of color.
7. Enjoy!
   • Serve your homemade fried rice immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the delicious flavors. It pairs perfectly with other Asian dishes or stands alone as a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Homemade Fried Rice

• Use Cold, Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and sticky for fried rice. Cold rice (especially rice that’s been sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight) is drier and holds up better when frying, giving the rice that perfect, slightly crispy texture.
• Use a Wok or Large Skillet: A wok or large skillet is ideal for fried rice because it gives you enough surface area to fry the rice evenly. The high, sloped sides of the wok also make it easy to toss the rice and ingredients together.
• Customize the Protein: Fried rice is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu. If you don’t have leftover meat, you can cook fresh protein while the rice is frying, or even skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch of fried rice, it’s better to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that the rice fries properly and doesn’t steam.
• Get Creative with Veggies: You can use any vegetables you have on hand, from peas and carrots to bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms. Get creative with what’s in your fridge!
• Add Extra Flavor: A drizzle of sesame oil at the end of cooking adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish. You can also try adding chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer a spicier version.

Variations You Can Try

1. Vegetarian Fried Rice: Skip the protein or use tofu as a substitute. You can also add extra vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli, to make the dish even heartier.
2. Spicy Fried Rice: For a spicy kick, stir in some sriracha sauce or a dash of chili garlic sauce. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking.
3. Pineapple Fried Rice: For a tropical twist, add pineapple chunks to your fried rice. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
4. Bacon Fried Rice: Add crispy bacon to your fried rice for an extra layer of flavor. Simply cook the bacon first, then chop it and toss it into the rice.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Rice Recipe That’s Even Better Than Restaurant Takeout is an easy, customizable dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless flavor combinations, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights, family dinners, or using up leftovers. You’ll never want to order takeout again once you’ve tasted how delicious and satisfying homemade fried rice can be. So grab your wok, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the best fried rice you’ve ever made!