About This Chinese Fried Rice Recipe

Though it’s unsure how fried rice was first made, it’s believed that this meal was created in the Sui dynasty (589–618 CE) in eastern Jiangsu province in the city of Yangzhou as a way to accommodate leftovers.

Traditionally, Chinese people enjoy their rice plain, served with well-seasoned vegetables or meat. But the fried rice version is a great way to transform leftover rice into a lip-smacking meal!

Since this dish is made using leftovers, it has many variations. This recipe is a great way to use what you have available, whether fresh or not. There are those who add chicken, sausages, or ham. Some versions include steamed prawns, while some avoid the onion.

This recipe is easy, quick, and gives you the best homemade fried rice! Simply toss some onion, carrots, and green peas in a wok with sesame oil. Scramble the eggs for a few seconds. Add the rice, a drizzle of soy sauce, and stir and fry the rice until everything is combined.

The secret to excellent fried rice is to use good quality rice with long grain that has been cooked at least one day before. Follow the recipe closely to make fried rice that perfectly blends with the other ingredients without clumping together or becoming too mushy!

Serve it warm or cold, fried rice is perfect for a simple lunch or dinner, or even as a side dish paired with meat, fish, or other veggies.

The next time you’re putting away leftover rice in the fridge, you can look forward to this tantalizing meal the next day!

What You Need for This Homemade Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredient Notes

• Rice: I like to use Basmati rice because it has long and aromatic grain. The important thing is that the rice must be cooked and cooled in advance. Freshly-cooked rice doesn’t work very well in this recipe; day-old rice would be perfect!
• Eggs: A great protein, eggs add a lovely texture and flavor to the rice.
• Vegetables: I have used carrots, onion, and green peas. I love the combination of flavor and the nice touch of color.
• Soy Sauce: I like to use a low-sodium soy sauce for just the right balance of salty and umami flavors.
• Sesame Oil: For me, I think sesame oil is a must in fried rice. It adds a deep, rich, nutty flavor that elevates this dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Rice: I like using Basmati rice, but you may substitute it with any other long-grain rice. You may even use short grain rice if you like it better.
• Soy Sauce: I like to use a low-sodium soy sauce, but you may use the normal one too. Just pour it carefully because it may be too salty.

FAQs

Can I reheat this fried rice?

Yes. You may reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a few minutes until heated through.

For how long can I store the fried rice?

You may store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What can I serve with fried rice?

Fried rice is perfect as-is, but you can also serve it as a side dish with meat, fish, or other veggies.

Print Recipe

Easy Homemade Chinese Fried Rice

Author: Ribana Hategan

Cooking Method: Sautéing

Cuisine: Chinese

Courses: Main Course, Sides

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 min Cook Time 10 min Total Time 20 mins

Description

Fried rice is a super quick and easy recipe that you can customize with your favorite flavors. It’s the best way to use your leftover rice!

Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Servings

• 175 g / 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 small white onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 50 g / ½ cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• salt & pepper
• chopped green onions or chives (optional)

How To Make Fried Rice Step By Step

1. Preheat a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Pour the sesame oil, add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and green peas, and fry until tender.

   

2. Slide the vegetable to the side, pour the beaten egg onto the other side, and scramble it.

   

3. Once cooked, mix the vegetables with the egg. Add the rice to the veggies and egg mixture, pour the soy sauce, and stir fry until heated through and everything is well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

   

4. Sprinkle with some chopped green onions or chives if you wish, and serve!

   

Note

• For best results, make sure you use rice that has been previously cooked and cooled. Even better if it’s day-old rice. This will prevent it from sticking together and getting mushy.
• For convenience and to save on washing pans, scramble the egg in the same pan with the veggies. You just need to slide the veggies to one side and scramble the egg on the other side.