Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This ham fried rice recipe is your answer. It's a delicious, easy-to-follow recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. This homemade dish is packed with flavor and is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old is best!)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Chop the onion and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen peas and carrots, ensure they are thawed and drained.
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Scramble the Eggs: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Stir-fry the Ham and Veggies: Add the remaining vegetable oil to the wok. Add the diced ham, onion, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and the ham is heated through. Add the peas and carrots and cook for another minute.
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Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
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Season and Combine: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for another minute, ensuring the sauce is evenly distributed. Add the scrambled eggs and stir to combine.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade ham fried rice!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ham Fried Rice:
- Day-old rice is key: Day-old rice is drier and less likely to become mushy when stir-fried. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before cooking.
- High heat is your friend: Use a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat to achieve that signature stir-fried texture. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce to your preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Get creative with your add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as shredded carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas. You can also add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Ham Fried Rice: Replace the ham with firm tofu, cooked and crumbled.
- Pineapple Ham Fried Rice: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple ham fried rice recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be achieved with minimal effort. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or any time you're craving a flavorful and satisfying dish. Enjoy!