Pork Fried Rice Recipe

Pork fried rice is a classic Chinese-American dish you can easily make at home. Start by stir-frying diced pork tenderloin until golden brown. Then, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger before adding frozen peas and carrots. Scramble eggs directly in the wok, then mix in day-old cooked rice and the browned pork. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes to combine flavors and heat through. For best results, use cold rice and cut all ingredients to similar sizes. You can customize the dish with variations like adding sriracha for heat or substituting shrimp for pork. Mastering this versatile recipe opens up a world of quick, delicious meal options.

Delicious Homemade Pork Fried Rice

Pork fried rice is a beloved Chinese dish that combines tender pieces of pork with fluffy rice and colorful vegetables. This comforting meal is not only tasty but also a great way to use up leftover rice. The dish’s origins can be traced back to the Sui Dynasty in China, where it was created as a way to repurpose leftover ingredients. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide as a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Ingredients

• 3 cups day-old cooked white rice
• 1/2 pound pork tenderloin, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
2. Add diced pork and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil to the wok. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add frozen peas and carrots, cooking for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Push vegetables to one side of the wok and add beaten eggs to the empty space. Scramble until set.
6. Add cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Return cooked pork to the wok and stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes.
8. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Top Tips

1. Use day-old rice for best results, as fresh rice can become mushy.
2. Cut all ingredients into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
3. Preheat your wok or skillet to ensure a good sear on the pork.
4. Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary.
5. Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences.
6. Let the rice sit undisturbed for a minute or two to develop a crispy bottom layer.

Variations

1. Vegetarian: Replace pork with tofu or mixed vegetables.
2. Spicy: Add sriracha or chili oil for a kick of heat.
3. Shrimp Fried Rice: Substitute pork with peeled and deveined shrimp.
4. Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white for added nutrition.
5. XO Sauce: Add a tablespoon of XO sauce for a luxurious umami flavor.
6. Kimchi Fried Rice: Incorporate chopped kimchi for a Korean-inspired twist.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	4
Calories	380
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	22g

This pork fried rice is a balanced meal containing carbohydrates from rice, protein from pork and eggs, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The dish is relatively high in sodium due to the soy and oyster sauces, so individuals on a low-sodium diet should consume in moderation. For a healthier version, consider using brown rice for added fiber and reducing the amount of oil used in cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Leftover Pork for This Recipe?

You can definitely use leftover pork. For ingredient substitutions, consider pork alternatives like chicken or tofu. Experiment with innovative proteins to elevate your dish. Adapt the recipe to your preferences, ensuring peak flavor and texture in your culinary creation.

Is It Possible to Make Pork Fried Rice Without Eggs?

You can certainly make fried rice without eggs. Consider egg substitutes or vegetarian options like tofu scramble. Experiment with flavor variations and ingredient substitutions to maintain texture and taste. This approach allows for innovative, customizable rice dishes.

How Long Does Homemade Pork Fried Rice Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?

You’ll want to follow recommended storage guidelines for meal prep. For best freshness and food safety, consume your homemade dish within 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly after cooking to maintain quality.

What’s the Best Type of Rice to Use for Pork Fried Rice?

For best results, you’ll want to use long-grain rice varieties. Jasmine or Basmati rice are top choices, offering distinct flavors and textures. Alternatively, consider brown rice or wild rice for a nutritious, innovative twist on the classic dish.

Can I Freeze Pork Fried Rice for Later Consumption?

Yes, you can freeze fried rice. For best flavor preservation, use airtight containers and consume within 3 months. When reheating, add moisture and stir-fry briefly. Store in single-serve portions for convenient, innovative meal prep solutions.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the technique for creating authentic pork fried rice at home. By following these precise steps and using the specified ingredients, you’ll consistently produce restaurant-quality results. Remember to maintain proper wok heat, execute swift stirring motions, and adhere to the prescribed cooking times for each component. With practice, you’ll refine your timing and technique, elevating this dish to perfection. Store any leftovers properly refrigerated for best freshness and flavor retention.