Craving a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal? Look no further than Chinese fried rice, a culinary staple beloved worldwide for its versatility and irresistible flavor. This classic dish offers a delightful blend of savory rice, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned protein, all coming together in a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you prefer a simple version with just eggs and peas or a more elaborate creation packed with shrimp, chicken, or your favorite meats and vegetables, Chinese fried rice is easily adaptable to your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.
This adaptable recipe allows for endless variations, catering to every palate and dietary need. From mastering the perfect fluffy rice to achieving that signature smoky wok hei, we'll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you create a restaurant-quality Chinese fried rice in the comfort of your own kitchen. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Cooking pot
- Spatula
- Chopping board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Mustard oil: 1 tbsp
- Bay leaves
- Black peppercorns: a little
- Cloves: 2
- Cardamom: 1 small
- Cumin seeds: 1/2 tbsp
- Ginger: 1/2 tbsp (chopped)
- Garlic: 10-12 cloves (chopped)
- Green chilies: 1 tbsp (chopped)
- Carrot: 1 (chopped)
- Peas: 1 small bowl
- Beans: 1 small bowl (chopped)
- Sweet corn: optional
- Onion: 1 medium (finely chopped)
- Capsicum: 1 (chopped)
- Red chili sauce: 1 tbsp
- Green chili sauce: 1 tbsp
- White vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper powder: 1/2 tbsp
- Biryani masala: 1 tbsp
- Pav bhaji masala: 1 tbsp
- Coriander: chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat mustard oil in a cooking pot. Add bay leaves, black peppercorns, cloves, and cardamom.
- Add cumin seeds, chopped ginger, and chopped garlic. Fry on medium heat.
- Add chopped green chilies and fry lightly.
- Add chopped carrots and peas. Cook lightly.
- Add chopped beans and sweet corn (optional). Cook lightly; add salt to taste.
- Add finely chopped onion and capsicum. Saute while stirring.
Step 2. Add Sauces and Seasonings
- Add red chili sauce, green chili sauce, white vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir well.
- Add black pepper powder, biryani masala, and pav bhaji masala. Mix well.
Step 3. Combine Rice and Vegetables
- Add cooked rice and mix well with the vegetables.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped coriander. Mix everything well.
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Don't overcook the vegetables; a little crunchiness adds to the flavor.
- Add onions and capsicums later as they cook quickly.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauces to your preference.
- Using non-sticky rice is recommended for best results.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-750
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 80-100g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rice is actually preferred for fried rice as it's drier and less likely to become mushy.
2. What's the secret to getting that 'wok hei' flavor?
High heat is key! Use a wok or large skillet and cook the ingredients quickly over high heat to achieve that smoky, slightly charred flavor.
So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly satisfying Chinese fried rice recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend project. Experiment with different vegetables and proteins to create your own unique variations. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Indo-Chinese fried rice!