Introduction
Fried rice is a delicious dish that’s popular in many parts of the world. It’s made with cooked white or brown rice that’s stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a variety of other ingredients. Fried rice can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish, and it’s an excellent way to use up leftover cooked rice.
Gather Your Tools and Prep the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary kitchen tools. You’ll need a large wok or skillet, a wooden spoon, and a spatula. You’ll also need a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the ingredients.
Once you have your tools ready, it’s time to prep the ingredients. Start by washing and chopping the vegetables and herbs. Then, dice the protein of your choice. For the egg, whisk together the eggs and seasonings in a bowl. Finally, measure out the rice and other ingredients you’ll be using.
Cook the Rice
The first step in making the best fried rice is to cook the rice. Choose long-grain white or brown rice for the best results. Long-grain rice has a slightly firmer texture than short-grain rice, which makes it ideal for fried rice. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then cook according to package directions.
Saute the Aromatics
Once the rice is cooked, it’s time to sauté the aromatics. Aromatics are the ingredients that give fried rice its flavor. Common aromatics include garlic, ginger, onions, and scallions. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat, then add the aromatics and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Protein
Next, it’s time to add the protein. Popular proteins for fried rice include chicken, pork, shrimp, and tofu. If using raw meat, make sure to season it with salt and pepper before adding it to the wok or skillet. Cook the protein until it’s cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Once the protein is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Rice with the Other Ingredients
Now it’s time to stir-fry the rice with the other ingredients. Heat a tablespoon of oil in the wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry until it’s heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the cooked protein, vegetables, and eggs. Continue to stir-fry until everything is heated through and combined, about 5-7 minutes.
Conclusion
Making the best fried rice doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these essential steps and tips, you can enjoy perfect fried rice every time. To make the best fried rice, start by gathering your tools and prepping the ingredients. Then, cook the rice and sauté the aromatics. Next, add the protein and stir-fry the rice with the other ingredients.