Chinese pork fried rice is a beloved classic that combines savory pork, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables into a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style dish or a comforting homemade dinner, making pork fried rice at home is easier than you think. Let’s dive into how you can make authentic Chinese pork fried rice that’s full of flavor and perfect for any night of the week.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Chinese Pork Fried Rice
To make delicious pork fried rice, gather these ingredients:
– 8 ounces ground pork (or diced pork loin)
– 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 3 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients create a balanced, flavorful dish with tender pork, savory eggs, and crisp veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chinese Pork Fried Rice
1. Prepare Your Rice and Eggs
Start with cold, cooked rice. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and avoid clumps. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them set slightly before scrambling into small pieces. Remove the eggs and set aside.
2. Cook the Pork and Aromatics
Add the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until no pink remains and some edges turn golden brown. This browning adds great flavor. Then, stir in the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add Vegetables and Rice
Toss in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until warmed through. Add the cooked rice and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Stir everything together to combine well. Break up any rice clumps and ensure the rice is coated with the pork fat and oil for that authentic taste.
4. Season Your Fried Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the rice. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a splash of Shaoxing wine or dark soy sauce for deeper flavor if you like. Toss in the sliced green onions and give everything a final stir.
5. Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Chinese pork fried rice is ready to serve! Garnish with extra green onions if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or as a side to your favorite Chinese dishes.
Tips for Perfect Pork Fried Rice
– Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky. Day-old rice dries out a bit, making it easier to fry and separate.
– High heat and quick cooking: Stir-fry over high heat to get a nice texture and avoid soggy rice.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
– Add eggs early: Cooking eggs first and removing them allows you to control their texture and mix them back in perfectly.
– Use pork fat: The rendered fat from pork adds rich flavor and helps coat the rice beautifully.
Variations to Try
– Swap ground pork for diced roast pork or leftover pork loin for a different texture.
– Add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and color.
– For extra depth, mix in oyster sauce or a little hoisin sauce.
– Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
Making Chinese pork fried rice at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a classic dish packed with flavor and texture. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal any day of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!
Pork fried rice is a delicious, quick meal that brings the taste of Chinese takeout right into your kitchen. Enjoy!