Special Fried Rice

Special Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of a classic takeaway right into your kitchen. This beloved recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes, but it also allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Special Fried Rice shines as a versatile option that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: With a blend of savory ingredients, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Customizable: Use any cooked meat or veggies you prefer; it’s an excellent way to use leftovers.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious meal choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or gatherings; everyone loves fried rice!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Special Fried Rice, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok or large skillet
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample cooking surface for even frying and tossing of ingredients.
• Spatula: Essential for stirring and flipping ingredients without damaging them.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for whisking eggs and combining smaller ingredients before adding to the main dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3 cups Cooked long grain rice (About 200 grams, or 2 servings)
– 100 grams Char Siu chicken (cut into small pieces)
– 150 grams Prawns (peeled and deveined)
– 2 Eggs (whisked and seasoned with a pinch of salt)
– 50 grams Green peas (About ½ cup)
– 1 Carrot (cut into small dice)
– ½ Onion (cut into small dice)
– 2 cloves Garlic (finely chopped)
– 2-3 Spring onions (cut into thin slices)
– 2-3 tbsp Cooking oil (neutral flavor oil)
– 1 tsp Soy sauce (regular or light soy sauce)
– 1 tsp Shao Xing grape juice
– 1 tsp Corn starch (or potato starch)
– ¼ tsp White pepper powder
– 2 tbsp Soy sauce
– 1 tsp Chicken powder
– 1 tsp Sesame oil
– ½ tsp White pepper powder

How to Make Special Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the rice is cold from the fridge as day-old rice works best for this recipe. Chop your vegetables and proteins into small pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Heat about one tablespoon of cooking oil in your wok over medium heat. Add the whisked eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant. This should take about one minute.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Protein

Add diced carrots, green peas, char siu chicken, and prawns to the wok. Stir-fry everything for about three to four minutes until the prawns turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Combine Rice with Other Ingredients

Add the cold cooked rice to the wok along with scrambled eggs. Gently stir everything together to combine well.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Pour in soy sauce, Shao Xing grape juice, chicken powder, white pepper powder, sesame oil, and corn starch. Mix thoroughly so that every grain of rice is flavored evenly.

Step 7: Finish with Spring Onions

Finally, sprinkle sliced spring onions over the fried rice. Give it one last stir before serving hot!

Now you have a delicious plate of Special Fried Rice ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Special Fried Rice

Serving Special Fried Rice is all about enhancing its delicious flavors with the right accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions can elevate your dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the fried rice.
• Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage and carrots in a light dressing complement the savory notes of the rice.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: A staple that enhances flavor and adds saltiness if desired.
• Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, chili sauce can add a fiery touch to each bite.

Serve with Additional Protein

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers provide extra protein and make for a satisfying meal.
• Tofu Stir-Fry: For a vegetarian option, sautéed tofu packed with vegetables works wonderfully alongside fried rice.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Sprigs: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Chopped Spring Onions: Additional spring onions on top provide crunch and color.

How to Perfect Special Fried Rice

To achieve the best results when making Special Fried Rice, consider these essential tips that ensure flavor and texture are spot on.

• Use Day-Old Rice: This prevents clumping and ensures each grain fries up nicely.
• Prep Ingredients Before Cooking: Having all ingredients ready allows for quick cooking and prevents overcooking.
• Stir-Fry on High Heat: Cooking at high heat helps to achieve that signature ‘wok hei’ or smoky flavor.
• Add Soy Sauce Sparingly: Too much soy sauce can make the dish soggy; add gradually for balanced flavor.
• Incorporate Vegetables Late: Add vegetables towards the end to maintain their crunch while still being cooked through.
• Season to Taste: Always taste before serving, adjusting seasonings like pepper or salt as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Special Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Special Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or proteins serve as a perfect crunchy addition to your meal.
2. Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup offers contrasting flavors that complement fried rice beautifully.
3. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with chicken or vegetables provide a satisfying bite alongside your main dish.
4. Egg Drop Soup: Light yet flavorful, this soup pairs well and adds warmth to your dining experience.
5. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles bring a different texture and richness that balances the fried rice well.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of colorful vegetables stir-fried quickly brings freshness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Special Fried Rice can be quick and easy, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky and clump together. Use day-old rice for the best texture and separation.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they’re tender-crisp to retain their flavor and crunch.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland fried rice. Don’t forget to add soy sauce and other spices for a richer taste.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop and prepare all ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Take time to prep your veggies and proteins before starting.
• Crowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the pan’s temperature, causing steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the Oil: Not using enough oil can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Ensure you have enough neutral oil in the pan.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Special Fried Rice in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Special Fried Rice

• Place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Special Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer rice into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add rice and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Special Fried Rice taste better?

To enhance the flavor of your Special Fried Rice, consider adding more spices or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, along with adjusting the amount of soy sauce.

Can I use different proteins in my Special Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can customize your Special Fried Rice by using chicken, turkey, lamb, or any other protein you prefer.

How do I store leftover Special Fried Rice?

Store leftover Special Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What is the best type of rice for Special Fried Rice?

Long grain rice works best for Special Fried Rice as it remains fluffy and separate when cooked.

Conclusion

Special Fried Rice is a versatile dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. With endless customization options, you can tailor it to your taste preferences by adding different proteins or vegetables. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!

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