Do you ever crave Chinese take-out but don’t want to leave your house? Or maybe you’ve tried making fried rice before, but it just doesn’t taste quite like the real thing. Well, I have the solution for you – my Chinese take-out fried rice recipe.

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also tastes just like the fried rice from your favorite Chinese restaurant. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you won’t want to order take-out again.

But what makes this recipe so special? The secret ingredient – butter! Yes, you heard that right. Butter gives this fried rice a rich and savory flavor that takes it to the next level.

Don’t worry if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand – I’ve included substitutions and variations so you can customize it to your liking. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time for a quick weeknight dinner.

So why settle for mediocre take-out when you can make restaurant-style fried rice in the comfort of your own home? Trust me, this recipe will change the way you think about fried rice forever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Do you ever crave take-out Chinese fried rice, but feel guilty about ordering in? Look no further because this recipe will satisfy your cravings while being both quick and easy to make at home.

What makes this fried rice recipe stand out from the rest is the secret ingredient that brings it to the next level: butter! Just a touch of butter divided throughout the cooking process adds a richness and depth of flavor that takes this rice recipe to restaurant-style heights.

But don’t worry, if you need to make substitutions or variations, this recipe is versatile and customizable. You can easily swap out the protein by using chicken, pork, or shrimp. For a gluten-free option, use yellow rice and skip the soy sauce. If you’re feeling fancy or want to impress guests, add some char siu (Chinese BBQ pork) or Chinese sausage.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also an excellent way to use up any leftover rice you have on hand. Don’t throw away that day-old cooked rice–make fried rice instead! It’s an easy way to transform leftover rice into something new and tasty.

Finally, one of the best reasons to love this fried rice recipe is that it’s better than takeout. Not only does it taste delicious with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, but it’s also a fraction of the cost of ordering in from a Chinese restaurant. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning and spice level to your liking–something not always possible with typical take-out options.

Overall, this recipe has it all: quick preparation time, versatility in ingredients and flavors, uses leftovers, is budget-friendly, and above all else–it tastes amazing. Get ready for your taste buds to be wowed!

Ingredient List

Let’s Take a Look at the Ingredients

Fried rice recipes ingredients can vary based on your preference or what you have on hand. However, to achieve the best-fried rice taste, there are some key ingredients that you should have. Here are the ingredients that you need:

Cooked jasmine rice (3 cups)
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon)
Eggs (2)
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
Ham, diced (1/2 cup)
Shrimp, peeled and deveined (1/2 cup)
Green onions, chopped (1/2 cup)
Minced garlic (1 tablespoon)
Fresh ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
Salt to taste

This recipe is easily customizable based on your preferences. You can substitute any protein like chicken, pork, shrimp or Chinese sausage. If you love vegetables, add some sliced carrots, bell peppers, broccoli or even snow peas. Furthermore, if you want a gluten-free option, use yellow rice instead of jasmine.

The Recipe How-To

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qURmdmgCCOI

Now, it’s time to cook! Here is the step-by-step guide to making Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice.

Ingredients:

3 cups cooked jasmine rice, cold or day-old
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup diced ham or Chinese sausage
1 cup small shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Optional: Carrots, peas, corn

Instructions:

Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl around to coat the pan.
Add the beaten eggs and scramble until they are fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the diced ham or Chinese sausage and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
Next, add the shrimp and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
Add the cold or day-old rice into the skillet or wok. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir-fry for about another minute.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle soy sauce over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
Add in the scrambled eggs, green onions, and any optional vegetables you prefer (carrots, peas, corn). Stir everything together.
Cook for an additional minute or until everything is heated through.

Serve your homemade fried rice hot on its own as a main dish or alongside your favorite Chinese takeout dish.

Enjoy what feels like authentic Chinese takeout-style Fried Rice!

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up this classic Chinese take-out dish. One simple modification is switching out the protein – try chicken, pork or shrimp if ham isn’t your thing. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. And if you want to add some color and nutrients, throw in some diced carrots or bell peppers.

For a different twist on fried rice, experiment with different types of rice – yellow rice or jasmine rice both work well. You can even try adding some Chinese sausage for a unique flavor profile.

If you’re looking for a healthier version of this recipe, try using brown rice instead of white and adding in some extra veggies like mushrooms or snow peas. And if you want to make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add in more veggies or tofu.

With so many variations to choose from, the possibilities for fried rice are endless. Get creative and make it your own!

Serving and Pairing

Now that your homemade Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice is ready, it’s time to think about how to enjoy it best. This mouthwatering dish can be served as a main meal on its own or as a side dish alongside your favorite stir-fry, soup or salad. It’s a perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinner to casual gathering with friends.

To make the most of the flavors in the fried rice, consider serving it with some protein such as chicken, pork, or shrimp stir-fry. The combination of savory flavors and umami notes will create a harmony in your mouth that you won’t want to miss. For a gluten-free option, pair your fried rice with yellow rice and grilled fish or tofu.

If you wish to turn your fried rice into a special dish for a party, try pairing it with other classic Chinese dishes like sweet and sour pork, kung pao chicken or General Tso’s chicken. You can also serve it alongside appetizers like dumplings and egg rolls to create an authentic Chinese feast at home.

Pair your homemade fried rice with a cold beer or any light-bodied wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, unsweetened iced tea or jasmine tea are great choices as they complement the flavor and aroma of the dish.

No matter how you choose to serve your homemade Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice, prepare yourself for love at first bite!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

If you’re planning to make the Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice Recipe ahead of time or leftovers, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s best to store the rice and meat mixture separately, so that the crispy texture of the fried rice doesn’t get lost. Once the rice is mixed with other ingredients, it tends to absorb moisture, making it soggy.

To store cooked rice, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate it right after cooking. It’s recommended to consume within three days for optimum freshness. Reheat the rice on medium heat in a skillet or microwave until it’s properly hot.

However, if you plan on making bulk batches of fried rice to save time for future meals, you can portion them out in smaller containers before freezing them. When reheating fried rice from frozen, let it defrost first before reheating on medium heat.

The Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice Recipe will taste even better the next day since the flavors have had more time to develop. Don’t hesitate to use your creativity by adding other meats or vegetables into the mix as per your preferences.

Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure your Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice turns out flavorful and restaurant-quality, keep these tips in mind:

Firstly, use day-old cooked rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, making the fried rice mushy. Day-old cooked rice is drier and better suited for the dish. If possible, refrigerate the cooked rice overnight before using it.

When stir-frying the ingredients, make sure the skillet or wok is very hot before adding the oil. This will prevent sticking and allow for even browning of the ingredients. Use a high heat and add the oil slowly as you stir-fry.

For added flavor, experiment with different vegetables and proteins. While ham and shrimp are traditional ingredients, you can also use chicken, pork, or even Chinese sausage. Don’t be afraid to mix and match – your favorite protein or vegetable may create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Finally, add in seasoning slowly and adjust as needed to achieve your preferred flavor profile. Soy sauce is a staple ingredient in Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice but using too much can make a dish too salty. Consider adding other flavorings like garlic or sesame oil to enhance depth of flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy an easy fried rice dish that tastes better than takeout outside the Chinese restaurant!

FAQ

As a culinary explorer, I have come across various questions while cooking Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice. In this section, I will delve into some of the frequently asked questions about this dish and provide answers that can help you perfect your recipe. Let us dive in!

What is the secret ingredient in Chinese fried rice?

When it comes to making delicious fried rice at home, adding the right ingredients can make all the difference. One ingredient that I highly recommend is butter. This ingredient may not be a typical addition to fried rice, but it’s a secret trick that they use at hibachi restaurants to create that irresistible flavor and texture. I have been using butter in my fried rice recipe, and let me tell you, it has been a total game changer. Not only does it add more flavor to the rice, but it also helps to perfectly brown the grains, giving it that crisp and tasty finish. So, if you want to take your fried rice to the next level, don’t forget to add some butter.

What gives Chinese fried rice its taste?

As a seasoned culinary explorer, I’ve discovered that the key to making delicious fried rice is mastering the perfect combination of seasonings. In my experience, the three sauces that are essential for creating the ideal flavor are soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. Each of these three sauces imparts a distinctive taste to the dish, but it’s crucial to use them judiciously. To achieve the ideal balance of flavor, sprinkle only small quantities of each sauce into your fried rice mixture and briskly stir the mixture before testing it for taste.

What is the secret to restaurant fried rice?

The key to preparing delectable fried rice that rivals that of a Chinese restaurant lies in utilizing leftover rice. Although fresh rice can be used, the end result will be much more satisfactory if the rice has been stored for a day. This simple trick guarantees to produce an authentic and appetizing dish.

What do Chinese restaurants add to their rice?

There’s a common question that often arises in the culinary world: why does Chinese restaurant rice taste so much better than homemade rice? The answer lies in the cooking technique, as Chinese restaurant rice is typically cooked in a blend of chicken broth and soy sauce. This combination provides a distinct, rich flavor that is commonly found in Chinese cuisine.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves take-out food. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make restaurant-style fried rice right in your own kitchen! It’s versatile enough to be personalized with your favorite ingredients, and the substitutions are endless for anyone with dietary restrictions.

I highly recommend using cooked jasmine rice as the base, as it gives the fried rice taste and texture that is impossible to beat. Additionally, the secret ingredient of butter divided adds an extra depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Whether you are gluten-free or just crave something special like shrimp fried rice or Chinese sausage, this recipe has got you covered. And if you have any leftovers, it’s always great to have some homemade fried rice that can be reheated for a quick meal in between busy hours.

Trust me when I say that this Chinese Take-Out Fried Rice recipe is even better than take-out itself. So why not put on an apron and start creating your own perfect rendition of the classic dish today? You won’t be disappointed!

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Vikas

Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.

Mouth-Watering Fried Rice Recipe You Must Try!