Far-East Fried Rice

Far-East Fried Rice Recipe | Asian Recipe | Tofu or Tempeh

Region / culture: Asia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Far-East Fried Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of Asia with the comfort of a classic fried rice recipe. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

History

Fried rice has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the dish. Far-East Fried Rice is a fusion of traditional fried rice recipes from various Far-Eastern countries, combining ingredients and flavors to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of tofu or tempeh, steamed for 10 minutes and cooled
1 tbsp of oil
0.5 cup of brown rice
1.5 cup of water
2 tbsp of sesame seeds
0.25 cup of sliced onions
0.5 cup of sliced celery
4 shredded spinach leaves
1 egg (optional)
4 tsp of tamari
0.25 cup of chopped green onions

How to prepare

Cut the steamed tofu or tempeh into julienne strips.
Simmer for 45 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
Heat oil in a wok or skillet.
Simmer rice in water for 45 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
Add sesame seeds and lightly brown them.
Add the tofu/tempeh and brown it.
Stir in the onions, celery, and spinach.
Saute for a few minutes, then add the cooked rice.
For extra protein, you can make a well in the center of the pan and drop in an egg.
Cook it a little, then mix the egg with the rice and vegetable mixture. Combine all the ingredients together and add tamari.
Sprinkle green onions on top to serve.

Variations

Add diced tofu or chicken for extra protein.
Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice for a lower-carb option.
Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to steam the tempeh before adding it to the dish to ensure it is cooked through and tender.

- Use a wok or skillet to cook the rice and vegetables, as this will help to evenly distribute the heat and ensure that everything cooks evenly.

- Be sure to stir the ingredients constantly to prevent sticking and ensure that everything is cooked to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

Far-East Fried Rice can be served on its own as a complete meal or paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the tempeh before adding it to the dish helps to ensure that it is cooked through and tender.

- Stir-frying the ingredients in a wok or skillet helps to evenly distribute the heat and ensure that everything cooks evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute tofu for tempeh if desired.

- Use soy sauce instead of tamari if you don't have it on hand.

- Swap out the sesame seeds for chopped peanuts or cashews for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Far-East Fried Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Far-East Fried Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken or tofu, and a side of steamed edamame. Serve with a glass of green tea or a refreshing Asian-inspired cocktail for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Far-East Fried Rice contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal option that is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Far-East Fried Rice is a great source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbs. Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for the body and are important for overall health and well-being.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing approximately 8 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come primarily from the oil used for cooking and the sesame seeds, which are a good source of healthy fats.

Proteins

Far-East Fried Rice is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as overall health and well-being.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being and can help to support a healthy immune system and strong bones.

Alergens

This dish contains soy (from the tempeh and tamari) and sesame seeds, which are common allergens. If you have allergies to these ingredients, be sure to substitute them with suitable alternatives.

Summary

Far-East Fried Rice is a nutritious and delicious meal option that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Far-East Fried Rice is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Serve on its own or paired with a side of vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Far-East Fried Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that had belonged to my own grandmother. As I sifted through the cards, yellowed with age and stained with splatters of various ingredients, I came across a small, handwritten card with the words "Far-East Fried Rice" scrawled across the top.

I was immediately intrigued. I had always loved fried rice, with its savory flavors and comforting warmth. But this recipe promised something different, something exotic and exciting. I knew I had to try it.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. Had my grandmother picked it up during her travels? Had she learned it from a friend or neighbor? The possibilities seemed endless, and my imagination began to run wild.

I decided to make the Far-East Fried Rice that very evening. I gathered the necessary ingredients - rice, vegetables, soy sauce, and a few other key items - and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped and sautéed, the fragrant smells of ginger and garlic filled the air, transporting me to a far-off land filled with bustling markets and sizzling woks.

The dish came together beautifully, with each grain of rice perfectly coated in the rich, savory sauce. I took a bite, savoring the complex flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil, the crunch of the vegetables and the tender chicken. It was unlike any fried rice I had ever tasted before, a true fusion of East and West.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this recipe. Who had first created it, and why had it found its way into my grandmother's collection? I imagined a wise old chef in a bustling Asian kitchen, passing down the secrets of his trade to a young apprentice eager to learn.

The next day, I decided to do some sleuthing. I called up my mother and asked her if she had any information about the Far-East Fried Rice recipe. To my surprise, she told me that it had actually been passed down from my great-grandmother, who had learned it from a Chinese immigrant who had settled in their small town many years ago.

I was amazed. The story of the Far-East Fried Rice recipe was even more fascinating than I had imagined. It had traveled across continents and generations, finding its way into the hands of a curious young cook like myself.

From that day on, Far-East Fried Rice became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and quiet evenings at home. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to my grandmother, my great-grandmother, and the mysterious Chinese chef who had first shared this recipe with them.

As I grew older, I continued to explore new recipes and cuisines, always eager to learn more about the world through the food on my plate. But Far-East Fried Rice remained a special favorite, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to the wider world beyond.

And so, as I sit here now, with a steaming bowl of Far-East Fried Rice in front of me, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that brought this recipe into my life. It's a dish that holds not just flavors and ingredients, but a rich tapestry of stories and memories that I will carry with me always. And as I take my first bite, I know that I am tasting not just a meal, but a piece of history, a slice of my own culinary heritage.