Thai Fried Rice Recipe: A Delicious and Authentic Dish
Thai Fried Rice is a beloved dish known for its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. This recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Thai Fried Rice experience in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and relatively easy-to-make meal!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for more or fewer portions.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Provides the base for cooking and helps prevent sticking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and savory aroma.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Contributes a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Day-old rice is ideal as it's less sticky.
- 1 cup chopped cooked chicken or shrimp: Adds protein and enhances the savory profile. (Vegetarian option: use firm tofu)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots: Adds a pop of color and sweetness. (Substitute with other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Provides freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Adds richness and protein; lightly scrambled adds a pleasant texture.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce: Essential for that authentic Thai umami flavor. Important: Start with less and adjust to your taste; fish sauce can be quite strong!
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds saltiness and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the saltiness and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper: Adds a subtle spiciness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Optional additions: Chopped chili flakes for extra heat, a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep your ingredients: Mince the garlic, chop the onion and green onions, and measure out all your other ingredients. This ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. Having everything ready to go is key to delicious Thai Fried Rice.
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Scramble the eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs and set aside. We'll add these later for a beautiful texture.
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Stir-fry aromatics: Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
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Introduce the protein and vegetables: Add the chicken (or shrimp/tofu) and frozen peas and carrots. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
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Season and combine: Push the rice mixture to the side of the wok. Pour in the whisked eggs and let them cook slightly before stirring them into the rice. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can really elevate the dish.
Tips for the Best Thai Fried Rice:
- Use day-old rice: Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, making it ideal for fried rice.
- Don't overcrowd the wok: Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Start with less fish sauce and add more as needed.
- Get creative with your vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables you enjoy.
- Serve it hot: Thai Fried Rice is best enjoyed immediately after cooking.
