Classic Thai Fried Rice

Vegetarian Classic Thai Fried Rice Recipe from Thailand

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Classic Thai Fried Rice is a popular and flavorful dish that is enjoyed by many around the world. This dish is a staple in Thai cuisine and is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices.

History

Thai Fried Rice has a long history and is believed to have originated in Thailand. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp red curry paste
0.5 lb (227 g) tofu, diced
4 cups cooked long-grain rice
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 green onion, chopped
1 tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped

Garnish

10 green onions
thin cucumber slices

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute.
Add the curry paste and stir-fry until it releases its aroma.
Add the tofu and cook for another 3 minutes.
Add the rice, mix well, and fry for 2 minutes.
Add the soy sauce, green onion, and cilantro. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish.
Serve with a clear soup and a salad. This dish can be enjoyed as a complete meal.
Serve with chilies in vinegar on the side: Chop 0.5 cup fresh green and red chilies into small pieces.
Add the chopped chilies to 1.5 cups of rice vinegar mixed with 1 tbsp of soy sauce.
Serve immediately.
If refrigerated, it will keep for a couple of weeks.

Variations

Add in additional vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added color and flavor.
Substitute the tofu with chicken, shrimp, or beef for a different protein option.
Use different types of curry paste for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use day-old rice for the best results, as fresh rice can become mushy when fried.

- Be sure to cook the tofu until it is golden brown and crispy for added texture and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of red curry paste to suit your spice preference.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables or protein to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Thai Fried Rice can be served on its own as a complete meal or paired with a clear soup and salad for a more balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Classic Thai Fried Rice is to ensure that the ingredients are cooked at high heat and stirred constantly to prevent sticking and burning. It is important to fry the rice until it is heated through and slightly crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have tofu on hand, you can substitute it with chicken, shrimp, or beef. You can also use different types of curry paste or soy sauce based on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Classic Thai Fried Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a couple of days. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with thinly sliced green onions and cucumber for added color and freshness. Serve the fried rice in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Classic Thai Fried Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or a side of fresh fruit. It can also be enjoyed with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Classic Thai Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a couple of days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Classic Thai Fried Rice contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Classic Thai Fried Rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with the main source of carbs coming from the rice. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with the main source of fat coming from the vegetable oil used for frying. Each serving contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

The tofu in this dish provides a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Classic Thai Fried Rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron. The green onions and cilantro used in the dish provide additional nutrients.

Alergens

This dish contains soy and may contain gluten if soy sauce is used. It is important to check for allergens and adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Classic Thai Fried Rice is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as a main course.

Summary

Classic Thai Fried Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to make and full of bold flavors. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this classic Thai dish as a main course or as a side dish to complement your favorite Thai meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was during my travels to Thailand many years ago, a place that holds a special spot in my heart. The bustling markets, the vibrant colors, the tantalizing smells – it was a feast for the senses. And one of the highlights of my trip was discovering the art of Thai cooking.

I had always been a lover of food, but there was something about the flavors of Thailand that captivated me like no other cuisine had before. And so, I set out to learn as much as I could about the traditional dishes of the country. One dish that stood out to me right away was the classic Thai fried rice – a simple yet flavorful dish that seemed to perfectly encapsulate the essence of Thai cuisine.

I first learned how to make it from a local chef at a cooking class in Bangkok. She showed me how to cook the rice to perfection, how to infuse it with the flavors of garlic, ginger, and chilies, and how to toss it with shrimp, vegetables, and a tangy sauce made from soy and fish sauce. The result was a dish that was fragrant, savory, and oh so satisfying.

As I continued my travels through Thailand, I made it a point to try Thai fried rice at every opportunity. From street food stalls to fancy restaurants, I sampled as many variations of the dish as I could find. Each one was unique in its own way, but they all shared that unmistakable Thai flair that I had come to love.

I made sure to take notes and ask questions wherever I went, determined to bring the flavors of Thailand back home with me. When I returned to my own kitchen, I set to work recreating the classic Thai fried rice that had captured my taste buds and my imagination.

Over the years, I tweaked and adjusted the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I experimented with different proteins – chicken, pork, tofu – and played around with the balance of flavors until I had perfected my own version of the dish.

Now, whenever I make Thai fried rice, I am transported back to those bustling markets in Thailand, the smell of spices in the air, the sizzle of the wok. It's a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

And so, I share this recipe with you, my dear grandchildren, in the hopes that you too will find joy and inspiration in the flavors of Thailand. May it bring you as much happiness as it has brought me, and may it serve as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to faraway places and cherished memories. Bon appétit!