Pork fried rice is a classic and versatile dish that brings together the rich flavors of pork, mixed vegetables, and fluffy rice. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating delicious and satisfying pork fried rice at home.
The foundation of any good fried rice is the rice itself. Using jasmine rice, and preferably rice that has been cooked and cooled overnight, ensures the grains are separate and not clumped together. This step is crucial for achieving the distinct texture that sets fried rice apart from other rice dishes.
The choice of pork adds a savory and hearty element to the dish. Leftover roasted pork or freshly cooked and shredded pork chops work equally well, providing a delicious protein component. The pork is first browned in the skillet, creating a flavorful base for the entire dish.
A colorful array of mixed vegetables, such as peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers, adds not only vibrant visual appeal but also a variety of textures and flavors. These vegetables are quickly stir-fried, preserving their crispness and enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
The addition of beaten eggs introduces a silky and satisfying texture to the fried rice. The eggs are poured over the rice and vegetables, creating delicate ribbons of cooked egg throughout the dish. This step not only adds protein but also contributes to the complexity of the dish's texture.
The seasoning is a crucial step in bringing all the ingredients together. A combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil provides a harmonious blend of salty, umami, and nutty flavors. The sauce is evenly distributed, ensuring every grain of rice and every piece of pork and vegetable is infused with the delectable combination of seasonings.
Chopped green onions add a final burst of freshness and color, elevating the visual appeal and providing a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients. The dish is finished off with a final stir, ensuring that every bite is a perfect medley of flavors and textures.
Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or served at a festive gathering, this pork fried rice recipe captures the essence of a classic Asian-inspired dish. It's a delightful fusion of ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavors, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced home cooks alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cooled overnight)
- 1 cup diced cooked pork (you can use leftover roasted pork or cook pork chops and shred)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and diced bell peppers work well)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare Ingredients:
- Make sure all your ingredients are chopped, diced, and ready to go.
- If you haven't done so already, cook the jasmine rice and let it cool. Using leftover rice is ideal for this recipe.
Cook Pork:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and cook the diced pork until it's browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp.
Add Rice:
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the remaining oil to the empty side.
- Add the cooled rice to the oil and stir to combine with the vegetables.
Add Pork and Eggs:
- Pour the beaten eggs over the rice and stir to combine, allowing the eggs to coat the rice.
- Add the cooked pork back to the skillet and stir to mix everything evenly.
Season:
- Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture.
- Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish:
- Add chopped green onions and stir for an additional minute until everything is well combined and heated through.
Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve the pork fried rice hot. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
