Stir-fried Rice

Stir-fried Rice Recipe from China with Bacon, Celery, and Soy Sauce - Authentic and Flavorful!

Region / culture: China | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stir-fried rice is a popular and versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of ingredients. This recipe combines the flavors of bacon, celery, green onions, mushrooms, and pimentos for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Stir-fried rice has its origins in Chinese cuisine, where it is known as "chǎofàn." It is a staple dish in many Asian countries and has become popular worldwide for its simplicity and versatility.

Ingredients

6 slices of bacon, diced
1 cup of diagonally sliced celery
1 cup of finely sliced green onions
2 eggs, beaten
3 cups of cooked rice, cooled
1 x 4 oz (113 g) can of sliced mushrooms, drained
0.33 cup of chopped pimentos
1 tbsp of soy sauce

How to prepare

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat and pour off the fat.
Return 1 tbsp of the fat to the skillet. Add the celery and onions and stir until they are tender crisp.
Add the eggs and scramble them.
Add the rice, mushrooms, pimentos, and soy sauce.
Toss the mixture lightly and heat it thoroughly.

Variations

Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for additional protein.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas.
Experiment with different seasonings such as garlic, ginger, or chili flakes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use cooled rice for this recipe to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Stir-frying requires high heat and constant stirring to ensure even cooking.

- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize this dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stir-fried rice as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying requires high heat and constant stirring to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables or proteins in this recipe with your favorites.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and quickly stir-fry them when ready to eat.

Presentation Ideas

Serve stir-fried rice in a bowl or on a plate garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair stir-fried rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad 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.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 12 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Stir-fried rice is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese from the vegetables and rice.

Alergens

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

Summary

Stir-fried rice is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Stir-fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. This recipe combines the flavors of bacon, celery, green onions, mushrooms, and pimentos for a satisfying meal that is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for stir-fried rice. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in China. My grandmother, who was known for her incredible cooking skills, had invited me to help her in the kitchen one day. As I watched her effortlessly chop, stir, and season various ingredients, I couldn't help but be in awe of her talent.

One day, as we were preparing dinner, my grandmother pulled out a worn and tattered piece of paper from her apron pocket. She explained that it was a recipe for stir-fried rice that she had learned from a friend many years ago. As she read off the list of ingredients and instructions, I could see the passion and excitement in her eyes.

I watched intently as she expertly diced vegetables, cracked eggs, and tossed everything together in a sizzling hot wok. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and my stomach rumbled in anticipation.

After a few minutes of stirring and flipping, my grandmother scooped the steaming hot rice onto a plate and handed me a fork. I eagerly took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The combination of savory soy sauce, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make stir-fried rice, and she graciously agreed. Over the next few weeks, she patiently guided me through each step, teaching me the importance of timing, seasoning, and technique.

As I practiced and perfected my stir-frying skills, I began to experiment with different variations of the recipe. Sometimes I would add shrimp or chicken for a protein boost, other times I would throw in a handful of cashews or sesame seeds for extra crunch.

My friends and family soon became obsessed with my stir-fried rice, and I would often find myself cooking huge batches for gatherings and potlucks. Everyone would rave about how delicious it was, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride knowing that I had learned this recipe from my grandmother.

As the years passed, I continued to make stir-fried rice for my loved ones, passing down the recipe and the tradition to future generations. Each time I stir-fry a fresh batch of rice, I am transported back to that small village kitchen, watching my grandmother work her magic.

And though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in every stir-fried rice dish I create. I like to think that she is looking down on me, smiling proudly as I carry on her legacy in the kitchen.

So whenever I make stir-fried rice, I do so with a grateful heart and a deep appreciation for the culinary skills that have been passed down through the generations. And as I take that first bite, I am reminded of the love, tradition, and history that are woven into every grain of rice.