Pork-fried Rice

Pork-Fried Rice Recipe from China with Brown Rice and Soy Sauce

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

Introduction

Pork-fried rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tender pork, savory vegetables, and fluffy rice. This recipe is a popular choice for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Pork-fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Sui Dynasty in China, where it was a popular street food among the working class. Over time, the dish has evolved and spread to other parts of the world, becoming a staple in many Asian and Western cuisines.

Ingredients

1.5 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup diced fully cooked ham
1 cup finely chopped fresh mushrooms
0.5 cup thinly sliced green onions
3 cups cooked brown rice, chilled
1 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

How to prepare

Heat 0.5 tbsp of oil over medium heat in a large skillet or wok.
Add eggs and cook without stirring until set.
Invert the skillet over a baking sheet to remove the cooked eggs; cut them into strips measuring 1.5x0.5 inches.
Set the egg strips aside.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
Stir-fry the ham, mushrooms, and onions in the oil for about 3 minutes, or until the mushrooms and onions are tender.
Stir in the cooked rice and the reserved egg strips; sprinkle with soy sauce.
Toss the mixture lightly and heat thoroughly.

Variations

Substitute the ham with cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use chilled cooked rice for this recipe, as it will help prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

- Be sure to cook the eggs without stirring to achieve a fluffy texture.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pork-fried rice hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique used in this recipe to quickly cook the ingredients over high heat while preserving their flavors and textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the ham with any other protein source of your choice, such as chicken, beef, or tofu.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for pork-fried rice ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pork-fried rice with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair pork-fried rice with a side of egg drop soup or hot and sour soup for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of pork-fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pork-fried rice contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pork-fried rice contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of pork-fried rice contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of pork-fried rice contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork-fried rice is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

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

Summary

Pork-fried rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Pork-fried rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Lillian's house. Lillian was known for her exquisite cooking skills, and that day she was preparing a special dish - Pork-fried Rice.

As I watched her move around the kitchen with grace and precision, I couldn't help but be captivated by the aroma of sizzling pork and fragrant spices that filled the air. Lillian noticed my keen interest in the dish and smiled knowingly.

"Would you like to learn how to make Pork-fried Rice, my dear?" she asked, as she handed me a apron and a wooden spoon.

I eagerly nodded, excited at the prospect of learning a new recipe from my talented friend. Lillian began by showing me how to marinate the pork slices in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. She explained that marinating the meat for at least an hour would ensure that it absorbed all the flavors and became tender and juicy.

Next, she demonstrated how to cook the rice perfectly - not too mushy, not too dry. She stressed the importance of using cold, leftover rice for the dish, as it would result in a better texture and prevent it from becoming sticky.

As the pork sizzled in the pan, Lillian added in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and peas. She explained that the key to a good Pork-fried Rice was to use a variety of colorful vegetables to add both flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

Once the vegetables were cooked to perfection, Lillian added in the cooked rice and mixed everything together with a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame oil. She then pushed the rice to the side of the pan and cracked an egg into the empty space, quickly scrambling it before folding it into the rice mixture.

Finally, Lillian garnished the Pork-fried Rice with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving it piping hot. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I took my first bite of the Pork-fried Rice, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. The tender pork, the crunchy vegetables, and the fluffy rice all came together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

From that day on, Pork-fried Rice became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, delighting my loved ones with its delicious flavors and enticing aroma.

Over the years, I've added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different meats, vegetables, and seasonings to create a Pork-fried Rice that is uniquely my own. But no matter how many variations I try, the memory of that first time I learned to make it from Lillian will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, whenever I cook Pork-fried Rice, I am reminded of the joy of learning and the power of shared knowledge. Cooking is not just about following a recipe - it's about creating moments that bring people together, nourish the body and soul, and pass on traditions from one generation to the next.

I am grateful to Lillian for teaching me the art of making Pork-fried Rice, and I hope to inspire others to embrace the magic of cooking and create their own culinary masterpieces for years to come.