Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chao Fan, or Chinese fried rice, is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that delivers vibrant flavors with minimal effort. The key to a great fried rice lies in using cold, day-old rice and cooking it over high heat, which creates a slightly crispy texture without making the rice soggy. This recipe is fully customizable, with eggs as the primary protein, and can be made with options like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a way to use up leftover rice, or a tasty side dish, this fried rice recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or sesame oil

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup diced carrots

• ½ cup frozen peas

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or firm tofu, diced (optional)

• 3 green onions, sliced

• 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian mushroom sauce)

• ½ teaspoon ground white or black pepper

• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Prep all ingredients: Before cooking, ensure all ingredients are ready to go, as stir-frying goes quickly.

2. Cook eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.

3. Stir-fry vegetables: Add the remaining oil to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, then add the carrots and peas. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add rice and protein: Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking apart any clumps. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the rice is heated through. Add the scrambled eggs back in along with the optional protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu).

5. Season: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster or mushroom sauce, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Finish: Add the sliced green onions in the last minute of cooking. Stir to combine and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian/Plant-Based: Use tofu or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a meatless version.

• Spicy: Add a bit of sriracha or chili flakes to add some heat.

• More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like baby corn, bok choy, or bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chao Fan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little soy sauce or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky, which can make your fried rice soggy. It’s best to use day-old rice that has been cooled and dried out a bit.

2. Can I use other proteins besides chicken, shrimp, or tofu?

Yes! You can swap in beef, or even keep it purely vegetarian with more veggies if you prefer.

3. How do I prevent my fried rice from being too dry?

Ensure you add enough soy sauce or oyster sauce to provide moisture. If reheating, a splash of water or broth can also help to add moisture back to the rice.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn are perfect for this dish and save prep time.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chao Fan ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

7. Can I add more spice to my fried rice?

Yes, feel free to add chili sauce, hot sauce, or chili flakes to taste for a spicy kick.

8. Can I freeze leftover Chao Fan?

Yes, you can freeze leftover fried rice for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s properly stored in a freezer-safe container.

9. How do I make the rice crispy like restaurant fried rice?

To make crispy rice, cook it on high heat and let it sit undisturbed for a few moments before stirring, allowing it to crisp up a little bit.

10. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well in this recipe. It will add a nuttier flavor and firmer texture to the fried rice.

Conclusion

Homemade Chao Fan is a quick, easy, and versatile dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you use chicken, shrimp, tofu, or just vegetables, this fried rice is sure to be a hit with everyone. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or as a way to use up leftover rice, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Try this recipe today for a delicious taste of homemade fried rice!

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