Fried rice is a popular dish that can be found in many Asian countries. It is a simple but delightful meal, that is quick to prepare. The main ingredient is rice, which is usually cooked beforehand and cooled overnight, allowing the grains to dry out. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of how to cook fried rice with pictures and tips to make it perfect every time.
Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we need to ensure that we have all the necessary ingredients available. Here’s a list of the ingredients we need:
- 2 cups cooked rice (long-grain or jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small carrot, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Fried Rice
Let’s get started! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook fried rice:
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
First, we need to prepare the rice. Cook the rice as per the packaging instructions and let it cool in the refrigerator overnight. This will make the rice grains dry, which is ideal for frying. Before cooking, separate any clumps of rice using your hands.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
Next, we need to prepare the vegetables. Dice the onions, carrots, and garlic and set aside. We also need frozen peas for this recipe.
Step 3: Beating the Eggs
Break two eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. Set aside.
Step 4: Frying the Rice
Heat a wok or a large frying pan over high heat and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onions and garlic. Fry for around a minute, stirring continuously until the onions soften.
Step 5: Cooking the Vegetables
Next, add the diced carrots and frozen peas to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
Step 6: Adding the Eggs
Create a well in the center of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Allow the eggs to cook for a few seconds before scrambling them with a spatula. Once done, mix them with the vegetables.
Step 7: Adding the Rice and Sauces
Add the cooked rice and mix it with the vegetables and scrambled eggs. Drizzle soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce over the mixture. Stir continuously for around five minutes to ensure that all the flavors blend together.
Step 8: Serving
Remove the pan from the heat and serve the rice hot. You can garnish the dish with chopped spring onions or sliced chili if you’d like.
Top Tips for Cooking Fried Rice
Cooking fried rice may seem simple, but there are a few things you can do to make it perfect every time:
- Use day-old rice that has been refrigerated overnight
- Use a wok or a large frying pan to ensure that the ingredients are cooked evenly
- Fry the onions and garlic until they become fragrant, but do not let them burn
- Scramble the eggs separately before mixing them with the vegetables and rice
- Keep stirring the rice when you add the sauces to avoid uneven distribution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some FAQs you might have when cooking fried rice:
1. Can I use any type of rice?
It’s best to use long-grain or jasmine rice for this recipe. The grains are drier and firmer than other types of rice, which makes them perfect for frying.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but make sure that they are diced or chopped into small pieces. This allows them to cook evenly and blend well with the rice.
3. Can I add meat to the fried rice?
Certainly! You can add chicken, beef, or shrimp to the fried rice. Just make sure that they are cooked before adding them to the pan.
4. How long can I store fried rice?
You can store the fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
5. Can I make fried rice without eggs?
Yes, you can skip the eggs and still have delicious fried rice. Just follow the recipe as per the instructions and omit the eggs.
Now you know how to cook fried rice, a popular and delicious Asian dish. By following the steps, tips, and FAQs we’ve shared, you can prepare this dish like a pro at home. Happy cooking!