Yangzhou Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

Before diving into the details of Yangzhou fried rice, let’s chat about sidekicks. This dish doesn’t just stand alone. It pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that can elevate your dining experience. Here are a few ideas to consider:

The tanginess of sweet and sour pork creates a delightful contrast to the savory taste of the fried rice. Each bite of the crispy pork, glazed in a vibrant sauce, adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Serve a medley of colorful stir-fried vegetables, featuring bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Their crunchiness provides a fresh texture that rounds out the meal.

Crispy, crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables and shrimp complement the soft texture of the fried rice. They bring a satisfying crunch to every bite.

A steaming bowl of hot and sour soup adds a punch of flavor. The spiciness harmonizes with the rich umami notes of Yangzhou fried rice.

Never underestimate the charm of a good drink! Pair your meal with a pot of fragrant Chinese green or jasmine tea to cleanse your palate between bites.

What is Yangzhou Fried Rice?

Yangzhou fried rice is a colorful and nutritious dish, showcasing a stunning blend of rice, meats, and vegetables. The key to its charm lies in how each ingredient shines. You have fluffy grains of jasmine rice, perfectly cooked and slightly oily, allowing the flavors from other ingredients to seep in. Often featuring shrimp, char siu (Chinese BBQ pork), and a mix of peas and carrots, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the stomach.

But there’s more. The dish gets a touch of umami from oyster sauce and is often flavored with soy sauce. It’s like a gentle embrace for your taste buds. Not too heavy, not too light; just right. And when topped with fresh scallions, it bursts with life.

Why You’ll Love Yangzhou Fried Rice

Imagine enjoying a meal that is not only easy to prepare but also brings flavors of tradition and comfort. This fried rice is perfect for every occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

First off, it’s versatile. You can tweak the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. Got leftover chicken? Toss it in! Want it vegetarian? Leave out the meat and load up on veggies.

Second, the flavor is unforgettable. The balance of savory, sweet, and umami is like a dance on your tongue. The pops of sweetness from peas and carrots perfectly balance with savory meats and seasonings.

Lastly, Yangzhou fried rice is easy to make. With a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can transform ordinary rice into a delightful dish. After a long day, it’s the perfect way to make dinner exciting again.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Yangzhou Fried Rice

Crafting a delightful Yangzhou fried rice isn’t complicated. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 5 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6.3 oz char siu, or substitute with ham or Spam if char siu is unavailable.
• 2.5 oz carrots, finely diced
• 2.5 oz peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 large eggs
• 2.5 scallions, chopped
• 2.5 cups Thai jasmine rice (day-old rice works best)

Flavors:

• 0.63 teaspoon sea salt
• 2.5 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2.5 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (for added depth)

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2.5 cups water
• 1.3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.63 teaspoon salt

Directions to Create Yangzhou Fried Rice

Ready to dive in? Let’s walk through the steps!

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking your rice. If using jasmine rice, rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch and cook according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool completely. Day-old, refrigerated rice works wonders here.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

While the rice cools, get all your ingredients ready. Dice your char siu, carrots, and chop the scallions. Set aside the peas.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the eggs. Scramble them gently until just set. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Shrimp

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the shrimp and stir-fry until they’re pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside with the eggs.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

Add the final tablespoon of oil. Toss in the carrots and peas. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes. You’re looking for a bit of crunch.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooled rice into the pan with vegetables. Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Mix thoroughly, ensuring every grain of rice is coated.

Step 7: Add Egg and Shrimp

Finally, toss in the scrambled eggs, shrimp, and scallions. Give everything a good stir to combine. Season with sea salt and adjust to taste.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once hot, serve your Yangzhou fried rice straight from the pan. Garnish with additional scallions if desired.

Notes for Perfecting Your Yangzhou Fried Rice

Here are some tips to ensure your Yangzhou fried rice reaches perfection:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice can be too sticky. Cooling it in the fridge overnight makes it easier to handle.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps to seal in flavors and prevents sticking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in batches. Too much in the pan can lead to soggy rice.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in fresh vegetables or different proteins based on what you enjoy.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Every palate is different.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely as it’s so delicious), here’s how to store them:

1. Cool Down: Let the fried rice cool to room temperature.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store it in airtight containers to keep moisture out.
3. Refrigerate: Fried rice will last up to three days in the fridge.
4. Reheat Gently: Use a skillet over low heat or microwave, but be cautious not to dry it out.

Nutrition Information

A serving of Yangzhou fried rice (about 1 cup) typically includes:

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg (depends on the soy sauce used)

This dish provides a good balance of macronutrients, making it suitable for various dietary plans.

Serving Suggestions

Here are five ideas for serving your Yangzhou fried rice:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of cilantro or parsley adds a burst of freshness.
2. Drizzle with Chili Oil: For those who love heat, a drizzle of chili oil is a game-changer.
3. Serve in Lettuce Cups: For a fun twist, spoon fried rice into lettuce cups for a crunchy bite.
4. Accompany with Soy Sauce: Always have extra soy sauce handy for those who like it extra savory.
5. Add Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime before eating brightens the whole dish.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Yangzhou Fried Rice?

Need a little flexibility? Here are some great substitutes:

• Char Siu: You can use any cooked meat, like chicken or beef. Even tofu works wonderfully!
• Shrimp: Swap shrimp for diced chicken or leftover pork. Either option provides a different twist.
• Thai Jasmine Rice: No jasmine rice? Medium-grain or short-grain rice can also work, delivering a different texture.
• Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand—bell peppers, corn, or bok choy make great additions.
• Eggs: For a vegan option, omit the eggs and add tofu or chickpeas for protein.

Conclusion

Yangzhou fried rice is truly a gem worth exploring. With simple steps and familiar ingredients, you can create this delightful dish that not only satisfies hunger but also leaves a lasting impression. 

Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it up for a gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit. Now, roll up those sleeves, invite a friend or two, and get cooking! You’ll find that the process is just as enjoyable as the final dish. Happy cooking!

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