why make this recipe
Fried rice is a beloved dish in many households due to its delicious flavors and versatility. Making better-than-takeout fried rice at home lets you control what goes into the meal. You can customize it to suit your taste, whether you’re in the mood for extra veggies or a hint of spice.
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about convenience. Using day-old rice makes preparation quicker, and the entire dish can be ready in under 30 minutes. This means you can enjoy your favorite takeout dish anytime without stepping outside.
equipment needed for Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
To make a great batch of better-than-takeout fried rice, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment:
- A large skillet or wok
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- A cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients
- A mixing bowl for the eggs
What You Need to Make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Cook Better Than Takeout Fried Rice Step by Step
Start by preparing the eggs. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until they are fully cooked, which will only take a few minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Next, you’ll move on to stir-frying the vegetables. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet where you cooked the eggs. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, allowing these ingredients to become fragrant and the onions to turn translucent.
Now, it’s time to add the carrots and peas. Pour the diced carrots into the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to start softening. Once they do, add the thawed peas and stir for another minute to ensure they warm through.
The next step is mixing in the rice, which is the heart of this dish. Add your chilled jasmine rice into the skillet. Use your spatula to break apart any clumps. Stir-fry the rice for about 4-5 minutes, cooking until it’s heated through and starts to brown slightly.
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet now and mix everything together thoroughly. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and the toasted sesame oil (if desired). Stir everything well to ensure that the rice and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauces, enhancing their flavors.
As a final touch, add the sliced green onions. Season your fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good mix in the skillet and then remove it from the heat.
Your better-than-takeout fried rice is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy the tasty flavors you’ve just created. It makes for a delicious main dish or can be served as a side to accompany your favorite Asian cuisine.
how to make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Making fried rice is a straightforward process once you have all your ingredients ready. Start by cooking the rice if you haven’t done so already. Whenever possible, use day-old rice as it’s drier and works best for this dish. If you need to cook it on the day, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
When you’re ready to cook, gather your diced vegetables, and have your sauces measured out. This way, you won’t feel rushed during the cooking process. It’s helpful to have everything prepped and in place before you heat the skillet. This approach ensures a smooth cooking experience.
Have your skillet hot before adding any ingredients. A well-heated skillet enhances the flavors and gives your fried rice a lovely texture. You can adjust the heat as needed while you cook, but it’s essential to keep it relatively high to mimic the effects of a restaurant-style stir-fry.
how to serve Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Serving better-than-takeout fried rice is simple yet effective. You can use individual plates for a neat presentation or serve it family-style in a large bowl at the center of the table. Garnishing with additional sliced green onions or sesame seeds can elevate the dish visually.
Pairing fried rice with some soy sauce or chili sauce on the side is a great idea for those who like more flavor. This allows everyone at the table to customize their serving according to their taste preferences. Consider serving it alongside some protein, like grilled chicken or beef, which can complement the fried rice well.
what to serve with Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Better-than-takeout fried rice pairs well with various dishes. For a complete Asian-inspired meal, consider serving it alongside sweet and sour chicken or beef teriyaki. The flavors from these dishes blend nicely, offering a satisfying and hearty feast.
If you prefer lighter fare, a simple green salad with sesame dressing goes well with fried rice. The crisp and refreshing salad contrasts beautifully with the warm and savory flavors of the fried rice.
For a vegetarian option, you can serve it with spring rolls or dumplings. These appetizers add variety and are great for sharing, making your meal feel more authentic and cohesive.
how to store Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
If you have any leftover fried rice, storing it is easy. Allow it to cool to room temperature first. Once cooled, transfer the fried rice to an airtight container.
Store the container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For longer shelf life, you can freeze the fried rice. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag. Under proper conditions, it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to the pan. This helps to revive the moisture in the rice and keeps it from drying out during the reheating process. You can use a skillet, microwave, or stovetop to warm it back up.
tips to make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
To achieve the best results for your fried rice, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice has too much moisture and can result in a soggy dish.
Another tip is to keep your ingredients chopped and prepped before starting to cook. This preparation speeds up the cooking process and helps maintain the correct cooking time for each ingredient.
When it comes to seasoning, always start with less soy sauce and adjust it later. This way, you can avoid over-salting the dish. Tasting as you go is essential to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
variation
There are countless variations you can explore with your fried rice. For a protein-rich option, consider adding diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Just cook the protein before the vegetables and set them aside to add back later.
For additional vegetables, try bell peppers, broccoli, or bok choy. Each adds flavor and texture, making the dish even more nutritious. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki sauce or coconut aminos, for a unique twist.
For those who enjoy spice, consider adding some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce when mixing the ingredients. This can bring an exciting kick to your fried rice, elevating it further.
best time to make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
There isn’t a specific time that’s best for making fried rice, making it a versatile dish for any meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you need something delicious and satisfying in a hurry.
If you have leftover rice from a previous meal, it’s an ideal reason to whip up a batch of fried rice. Many people also enjoy making it as a weekend treat, especially when hosting friends or family.
Since fried rice is easily customizable, it’s suitable for any gathering. Whether you want it as a main dish or a delightful side, it fits well into many occasions.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is using fresh rice instead of chilled, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to stick together, leading to clumpy fried rice. Ensure your rice is cold before starting.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet. If your skillet is too full, the ingredients steam instead of stir-frying, which diminishes flavors. It’s better to cook in batches if necessary.
Don’t skip the prep work. Having your ingredients chopped and sauces measured out beforehand prevents chaos during cooking, allowing you to focus on creating an evenly cooked dish.
nutritional notes
Fried rice can be a balanced meal when made with the right ingredients. It provides carbohydrates from rice, protein from eggs or added meat, and vitamins from vegetables.
By choosing brown rice over white rice, you can increase fiber content, making it a healthier option. Additionally, using less oil or opting for sesame oil can enhance its health benefits without sacrificing flavor.
Adding a variety of colorful vegetables not only improves the visual appeal but also boosts the nutrient density of the dish. This way, your fried rice can be both delicious and nourishing.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make it vegan, you can replace the eggs with tofu or simply omit them. You may also want to ensure that the sauces you use are vegan-friendly.
2. Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Chopping the vegetables and cooking the rice a day ahead can save time when you’re ready to cook.
3. What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Jasmine rice is commonly used for its fragrance and texture. However, you can use other types such as basmati or even brown rice for a healthier alternative.
conclusion
Creating better-than-takeout fried rice at home is not only easy, but it’s also a fun way to customize your meals according to your liking. With a few basic ingredients and steps, you can produce a dish that rivals any restaurant’s version.
The flavors will brighten your meal, and you can enjoy both the comforting taste and the satisfaction that comes from making your favorite dish. Encourage creativity by trying out different ingredients, sauces, and proteins, and you’ll find endless possibilities that keep this meal exciting and delicious.
