Before diving into the marvelous world of St. Louis fried rice, let’s talk about some delicious companions. This dish is versatile, making it perfect alongside crispy egg rolls or spring rolls. Imagine sinking your teeth into golden, flaky pastries packed with flavor while savoring the heartiness of the fried rice.
A simple Asian cucumber salad also pairs well, providing a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the fried rice. Feel adventurous? Serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp marinated in a sweet soy sauce for a nutty flavor explosion.
St. Louis fried rice is a beloved dish that melds Asian culinary traditions with a Midwestern twist. It typically features cooked jasmine rice tossed with a medley of vegetables, eggs, and various seasonings. The result? A colorful, savory plate that beckons both locals and visitors.
In this dish, simplicity meets creativity. Whether you whip it up for a quick dinner or serve it at a big gathering, St. Louis fried rice promises to shine. With its origins rooted in Chinese cooking, it has adapted to local tastes by incorporating easily accessible ingredients.
The flavor profile of St. Louis fried rice is truly delightful. You'll notice a satisfying combination of salty, umami, and slightly sweet notes from the various sauces. The sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness, while the garlic and shallots offer aromatic depth.
Each bite bursts with flavors, from the crunch of fresh vegetables to the savory richness of the perfectly scrambled eggs. It creates a well-rounded dish that doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your soul.
You’ll adore St. Louis fried rice for several reasons:
Are you ready to bring this flavorful delight into your kitchen?
Here’s what you'll need to create this delightful St. Louis fried rice:
If you haven’t cooked your rice ahead of time, begin with that. Use jasmine rice for its fluffy texture. Once cooked, spread it on a baking sheet to cool. This helps reduce clumping. Day-old rice works wonders, as it’s less sticky.
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and let them sit for a moment. As they begin to set, scramble gently until just cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the finely diced shallots and minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes. You want them fragrant and translucent but not browned.
Next, add the chopped green onions and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. This is where the dish starts to come alive with color and freshness.
Add the cooled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Gently fold in the scrambled eggs. Pour in the sesame oil, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, and salt. Toss everything together until the rice is evenly coated.
Taste your creation. If it needs a punch of flavor, sprinkle a bit more soy sauce or salt. Finally, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Stir for another minute or two, allowing everything to meld perfectly.
Transfer your fried rice to a serving platter and top with freshly chopped cilantro. Voilà! You have a colorful, vibrant dish ready for the table.
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind:
Let’s break down the nutritional aspects of St. Louis fried rice.
One serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
These numbers can change based on added ingredients, like proteins or additional vegetables, making it an adaptable meal option.
Leftovers can easily be stored. Place the fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.
For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just portion it out in freezer bags or containers. It should last about 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
If you’re missing some ingredients, here are a few substitutes:
St. Louis fried rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. This dish combines the comfort of home cooking with vibrant flavors that can brighten up any table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a side for a barbecue, it won’t disappoint.
As you explore the recipe and adapt it to your tastes, remember that food is not just about nourishment, but about creating memories. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking. You’ll not only enjoy a tasty dish but also the joy of bringing friends and family together around the table. Happy cooking!
I’ll never forget the first time I encountered St. Louis fried rice. It was at a bustling little eatery on Delmar Boulevard, the mouth-watering aroma pulling me in. When I tasted that delightful blend of ingredients, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This dish, a local twist on traditional fried rice, quickly became a staple in my home.
Fried rice is a staple in many cuisines, but the St. Louis version adds its own unique flair. It’s easy to prepare and offers a satisfying balance of flavors. In this article, I’ll share a detailed exploration of St. Louis fried rice, including useful tips and insightful tricks to elevate your cooking game.
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I'm Lisa Schneider, a registered dietitian and the creator of Simple Food Dishes. My passion is to help people create easy, nutritious meals that fit seamlessly into their busy lives. Through this blog, I aim to make home cooking fun, accessible, and stress-free for everyone!