Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice

Introduction

Looking for a quick and delicious way to use up leftover rice? Look no further than this Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice recipe! Whether you’re in a rush or just craving something tasty, this fried rice is the perfect solution. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that will please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is versatile too—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein for a complete meal. Let’s dive into making this quick and easy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

To make this delicious fried rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 cups of cooked rice: Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice as it helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy.

3 tablespoons of butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and helps give the rice a nice, crispy texture.
1 onion, diced: Onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Optional Add-Ins

While this recipe is fantastic as-is, you can easily customize it by adding some of these optional ingredients:

2 eggs, beaten: Scramble them and mix into the rice for extra protein and richness.
1 cup of mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn): Adds color and nutrition to the dish.
2 tablespoons of soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the fried rice.

1/2 cup of diced ham or cooked chicken: A great way to make this dish heartier and more filling.
1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil: For an extra layer of flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

If you don’t already have leftover rice, cook your rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool. For the best results, spread the rice out on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for a few hours to dry out slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a large skillet or wok, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The onion should become fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Add the cooked, cold rice to the skillet with the onions. Stir the rice and onions together, breaking up any clumps of rice as you go. Cook the rice for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and slightly crispy. This is where the butter helps to give the rice a deliciously crispy texture.

Step 4: Customize Your Fried Rice

If you’re adding any of the optional ingredients, now is the time to do so:

Eggs: Push the rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then stir them into the rice.
Vegetables and Protein: Add the mixed vegetables and/or diced ham or chicken. Stir well to combine, and cook until everything is heated through.
Soy Sauce: Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice, stirring to evenly distribute the flavor.
Sesame Oil: Add the sesame oil for a fragrant finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice is ready to serve. Garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy this quick and easy meal!

Tips for Success

Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice works best because it’s drier, which prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
Butter for Flavor: While oil can be used, butter adds a rich flavor that makes the rice even more delicious.
High Heat: Cooking the rice over high heat gives it a nice, crispy texture and helps the flavors meld together.
Customize: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different veggies, proteins, and seasonings to make this dish your own.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use freshly cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use freshly cooked rice, but it’s best to let it cool down and dry out a bit before using it in fried rice. Spread the rice out on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes if you’re in a hurry.

Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice – Quick, Easy, And Pleasy!