Fried Rice That’s Even Better Than Restaurant Takeout
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked and chilled rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional protein: cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Ensure the rice is chilled and not freshly cooked, as day-old rice works best for fried rice. Break up any clumps.
- Prepare all the vegetables and other ingredients before starting to cook.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the other side.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until they are fully cooked.
- Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the Rice:
- Add the chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any remaining clumps.
- Stir everything together and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the rice to fry and develop a slight crust.
- Season the Fried Rice:
- Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the rice. Stir well to evenly coat the rice and vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding a protein, stir it in at this point and cook until heated through.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sliced green onions.
- Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Tips:
- Customize your fried rice by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a little more soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
