Chinese Egg Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

As I dive deeper into my culinary adventures, I often find myself reflecting on the many dishes that have come to define my kitchen experiences. One dish that always beckons to me is Chinese egg fried rice. 

It's more than just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and comfort, especially when paired with crispy sweet and sour chicken or fragrant kung pao shrimp. Imagine enjoying tender bites of chicken coated in a luscious, tangy sauce while your fork casually scoops up perfectly cooked rice, each grain a testament to careful preparation.

But what exactly is Chinese egg fried rice? Let’s explore this dish, its ingredients, and how to prepare it right in your own kitchen.

What is Chinese Egg Fried Rice?

Chinese egg fried rice is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, featuring simple ingredients brought together to create rich, savory flavors. Traditionally made with leftover rice, this dish has become a canvas for innovation. 

You can customize it with all sorts of vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. The humble egg serves as the star attraction, contributing a wonderful texture and depth of flavor.

The Ingredients

To craft a delicious Chinese egg fried rice, gather the following ingredients:

• 14 oz uncooked jasmine rice
• 4 large eggs
• 2 oz carrots, diced
• 1 oz green onions (green parts only)
• 4 oz frozen mixed corn and peas
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt

Rice Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 0.5 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

How to Make Chinese Egg Fried Rice

Before we get into the steps, let me tell you that this process is simple and can be done in about 30 minutes. The delicate balance of flavors and textures comes together quickly, giving you a fantastic meal without requiring a culinary degree. Now, let’s dive into those delightful details!

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cooking the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice is fluffy. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 14 oz of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 10 minutes. Fluff it with a fork afterwards to separate the grains.

Step 2: Scrambling the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk, and season with a pinch of salt. Pour the eggs into the skillet. Stir gently, allowing the eggs to cook until they are just set but still soft. They should look a bit undercooked since they will continue to cook with the rice. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil if necessary. Now, toss in the diced carrots, frozen corn, and peas. Stir-fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. The vibrant colors will fill your kitchen with energy and make you feel like a pro!

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients

Once the veggies are tender, add the cooked rice to the skillet. Increase the heat to high, as this will help achieve that sought-after fried texture. Gently break apart any clumps of rice with your spatula.

Step 5: Flavoring the Dish

Now, it’s time for the flavor blast! Sprinkle in the rice seasoning ingredients: light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and the optional chicken bouillon powder. Stir well to ensure every grain of rice is coated with those rich flavors.

Step 6: Bringing it All Together

Finally, fold in the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions. Give everything a final toss to combine, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or soy sauce if necessary.

Notes

Here are some tips that can help elevate your fried rice game:

• Use cold, day-old rice: This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy when cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to maintain high heat, which is key for good frying.
• Experiment with proteins: Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a heartier dish.
• Adjust to your taste: Spice it up with a dash of chili sauce or sesame seeds to add more depth.
• Don’t skip the sesame oil: It adds an authentic layer of flavor that feels just right.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though they are rare), here's what to do:

• Store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• To reheat, microwave it in portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
• For freezing, allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portions. It can be reheated directly from frozen.

Nutrition Information

While enjoying Chinese egg fried rice, you'll also want to consider its nutritional aspect:

• Serving size: about 1 cup
• Calories: Approximately 300
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g

Serving Suggestions

Here are ways to enjoy your egg fried rice even more:

1. Sweet and Sour Chicken: This classic combination enhances the dish, as the sweet and tangy sauce complements the savory rice perfectly.
2. Kung Pao Shrimp: The spicy kick from this dish balances well with fried rice's mild flavor.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Tossed with a drizzle of sesame oil, roasted or grilled veggies add a nice crunch and health boost.
4. Egg Drop Soup: This comforting soup pairs wonderfully as a flavorful side to your rice.
5. Steamed Dumplings: Whether pork or vegetable, dumplings add texture and an extra layer of deliciousness.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chinese Egg Fried Rice?

If you feel adventurous, consider these alternatives:

• Brown Rice: If you're looking for a healthier option, brown rice works wonders, adding nuttiness and fiber.
• Quinoa: For a gluten-free twist, try quinoa. It’s nutritious and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Cauliflower Rice: To keep the carbs low, use riced cauliflower for a veggie-packed alternative.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a unique spin, add spiralized zucchini to the mix for extra greens.
• Chickpeas: This provides an excellent protein substitute, making the dish heartier and more filling.

Conclusion

Creating Chinese egg fried rice is not just about making a meal; it’s about understanding the flavors, the textures, and even the journey of preparing it. Each step brings you memories and new traditions, just waiting to be discovered in your kitchen. 

With a dash of imagination and a sprinkle of flavors, this dish holds a special place for any food enthusiast. So roll up your sleeves and dive in; your palate will thank you!

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