Fried Rice - Basic Recipe

Fried Rice - Basic Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile delicacy, full of flavors and colors, that can transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. The origins of fried rice are steeped in history, with deep roots in the cuisines of many cultures, where it is often used as an ingenious way to utilize leftover cooked rice. This basic recipe is perfect not only as a side dish but also as a main course, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (sunflower oil or peanut oil are excellent options)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (you can use red, yellow, or green bell peppers for a colorful appearance)
- 2 green onions, chopped (keep the white part for a stronger flavor)
- 3 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use light soy sauce for a subtler taste or regular soy sauce for a stronger flavor)
- 2 cups cooked rice (ideally, use rice that was cooked the day before, as it will fry better)
- Sesame oil, for flavor (add it carefully, so as not to lose intensity)

Optional ingredients:
- Fresh ginger, grated (for an extra flavor boost)
- Garlic, minced (adds a savory taste)
- Carrot, diced (for color and sweetness)
- Chili pepper, sliced (if you like it spicy)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for a fresh and aromatic note)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Make sure all the ingredients are ready before you start cooking. Chop the bell pepper, green onion, carrot (if using), and prepare the eggs. The rice should be cooked and cooled (ideally from the day before) to achieve a perfect result without sticking.

Step 2: Heat the oil
In a large skillet or wok, add the vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the vegetables. You can check the temperature by adding a small amount of bell pepper - if it sizzles, it's time to continue.

Step 3: Cook the vegetables
Add the bell pepper and green onion to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until they become slightly soft. If you choose to use carrot or garlic, now is the time to add them.

Step 4: Add the eggs
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet to create a free space and add the eggs. Stir them immediately with a spatula to form large pieces. Let the eggs cook gently for about 1-2 minutes until they are slightly firm but not fully cooked.

Step 5: Incorporate the rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir everything carefully, ensuring the rice fries evenly. Continue to stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine perfectly.

Step 6: Finish the dish
Just before removing the skillet from the heat, add the sesame oil. Mix well to distribute the flavor throughout the dish. Taste to adjust the soy sauce if necessary.

Step 7: Serve
Fried rice should be served hot, directly from the skillet. You can garnish it with fresh cilantro, slices of chili pepper, or sesame seeds for a crunchy note.

Serving suggestions:
This fried rice pairs wonderfully with dishes like teriyaki chicken, grilled fish, or fried tofu. Additionally, a fresh cucumber salad with sesame can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g

Tips and variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the recipe. You can also include vegetables like peas or corn to enrich the texture and flavor. An interesting variation would be to add spices like curry or turmeric to achieve a fried rice with Eastern flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why is it important to use rice cooked the day before?
Rice cooked a day before dries out a bit, making it more suitable for frying, avoiding sticking and clumping.

2. Can I use brown rice?
Of course! You can use brown rice for a healthier option, but the cooking time may vary.

3. What is the best type of oil for frying?
Peanut oil or sunflower oil are ideal for frying due to their high smoke point and neutral flavors.

Fried rice is a simple, quick recipe full of possibilities, perfect for being adapted to your tastes. By experimenting with various ingredients and flavors, you can create your own variations and turn this basic recipe into a personalized culinary masterpiece. Don't hesitate to share the final result with your loved ones - a delicious meal is always better when enjoyed together!