Chinese-style Fried Rice

Vegetarian Chinese-style Fried Rice Recipe

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chinese-style Fried Rice is a popular dish that is loved by many for its delicious flavors and versatility. This recipe combines fluffy steamed rice with eggs, vegetables, and savory seasonings to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Fried rice has a long history in Chinese cuisine and is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover rice and ingredients. Over time, it has evolved into a beloved dish that can be found in Chinese restaurants around the world.

Ingredients

6 free-range eggs
0.67 cup finely sliced spring onions (scallions)
2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp finely diced ginger
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 small red onion, finely diced
4 cups steamed rice
1 tbsp light soy sauce, extra
1.33 cups finely shredded chinese cabbage leaves

How to prepare

Place eggs in a bowl along with spring onions, soy sauce, and ginger. Lightly beat the mixture with a fork to combine.
Heat oil in a hot wok until the surface starts to shimmer slightly.
Add onion and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for 10 seconds. Then, fold the egg mixture over itself using a spatula and lightly scramble for about 1.5 minutes, or until it is almost cooked through.
Add rice and extra soy sauce. Stir-fry for about 1.5 minutes, using a spatula to break up the egg into smaller pieces.
Finally, add cabbage and stir-fry for 20 seconds, or until well combined and the rice is heated through.
Transfer the rice to a platter and serve.

Variations

Add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Mix in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra color and flavor.
Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use day-old rice for the best results, as freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.

- Be sure to cook the eggs quickly in a hot wok to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

- Stir-fry the ingredients quickly over high heat to ensure that they are cooked evenly and retain their crisp texture.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese-style Fried Rice can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside other Chinese favorites such as stir-fried vegetables or dumplings.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique used in this recipe to quickly cook the ingredients over high heat while maintaining their texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can customize this recipe by using different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings based on your preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Chinese-style Fried Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a wok or skillet before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the fried rice with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese-style Fried Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as stir-fried vegetables, sweet and sour chicken, or egg rolls.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Chinese-style Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a wok or skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese-style Fried Rice contains approximately 320 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese-style Fried Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese-style Fried Rice contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese-style Fried Rice contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese-style Fried Rice is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chinese-style Fried Rice is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese-style Fried Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this classic Chinese favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Mary at her home. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, the aroma of soy sauce and ginger hit me like a wave, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Mary was busy at the stove, tossing rice and vegetables in a wok with a skillful flick of her wrist. She smiled at me and said, "I'm making Chinese-style fried rice for lunch. Would you like to help?"

I eagerly agreed, and Mary handed me a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients in the wok. As I watched her work, I asked her where she learned to make such delicious fried rice.

Mary chuckled and said, "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her. It's been passed down through the generations in my family."

I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe being handed down from mother to daughter for so many years. I asked Mary if she would teach me how to make the fried rice, and she readily agreed.

Over the next few hours, Mary patiently guided me through the process of making Chinese-style fried rice. She explained the importance of using day-old rice, how to season the wok properly, and the secret to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I marveled at how something as simple as fried rice could bring so much joy and connection between generations. I knew then that I wanted to learn more about the recipes and traditions that had been passed down in my own family.

When I returned home, I called my grandmother and asked her if she had any recipes that had been handed down from her ancestors. She chuckled and said, "Oh, my dear, I have a treasure trove of recipes that have been in our family for generations. Come over this weekend, and I'll teach you how to make one of my favorites."

I eagerly accepted her invitation and spent the next few days in eager anticipation of what my grandmother had in store for me. When I arrived at her house, she greeted me with a warm hug and led me to the kitchen.

As we stood side by side at the stove, my grandmother began to tell me the story behind the recipe she was about to teach me. She explained how her own mother had learned to make Chinese-style fried rice from a neighbor who had lived in Shanghai many years ago.

My grandmother's eyes sparkled with pride as she passed down the knowledge and tradition of making fried rice to me. She showed me how to chop the vegetables, stir-fry the rice, and season the dish with soy sauce and sesame oil.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, my grandmother shared stories of her childhood and the memories she had of cooking with her mother in the kitchen. I realized then that the recipes we pass down from generation to generation are not just about food, but about love, connection, and preserving our family history.

From that day on, I made it a point to learn as many recipes as I could from my grandmother and other family members. Each dish I learned was like a piece of a puzzle, connecting me to my past and the traditions that had shaped my family for generations.

And so, whenever I make Chinese-style fried rice now, I think of Mary, my grandmother, and all the women who came before me, passing down their knowledge and love through the simple act of cooking. It is a tradition that I am proud to continue, and one that I hope to pass down to future generations as well.