Breakfast Fried Rice
If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up, this Breakfast Fried Rice is just the ticket! Imagine waking up to a savory dish that embraces all the comforting flavors of a classic diner meal, but without any of the guilt. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends with family. Trust me, once you try this dish, it might just become your go-to breakfast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors and fun textures.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Utilize that leftover rice in your fridge and reduce food waste!
- Customizable: Make it your own by adding different veggies or proteins according to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Breakfast Fried Rice uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to make this delightful dish!
For the Fried Rice
- 6 slices bacon (chopped)
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium white onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 c cold cooked rice
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 c frozen peas and carrots
- ½ cup frozen corn
- 4 green onions (sliced)
Variations
One of the best things about Breakfast Fried Rice is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients based on what you love or have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or tofu for a lighter option.
- Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or sriracha if you like a little heat in your breakfast.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon entirely and add extra eggs or plant-based proteins instead.
How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by lining a plate with paper towels to drain your cooked bacon later. Add chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok over medium heat. Cooking from cold helps render out the fat slowly, resulting in crispy pieces. Stir occasionally until perfectly crisp; this should take about 10 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to the paper towel-lined plate.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
While your bacon is cooking, crack four large eggs into a bowl. Season them lightly with kosher salt and ground pepper before beating them with a fork. This step adds flavor right from the start! Once your bacon is out of the pan, leave just enough fat to cook your eggs—about two tablespoons should do. Pour in those beaten eggs and let them sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until they set around the edges. Then gently scramble them until they reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Now it’s time to build some flavor! Increase your heat to medium-high and add butter to melt in all that deliciousness left from cooking your bacon. Toss in diced onions once melted and sauté until they’re translucent—this usually takes about 5-6 minutes. The sweetness of the onions will elevate your fried rice! Afterward, add minced garlic and stir constantly for about another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Frying the Rice
Next up is our star ingredient—cold cooked rice! Toss it into the skillet with sautéed onions and garlic, ensuring everything is well combined. Spread it out evenly in a layer so it can fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes; this gives it that lovely crispy texture we all crave.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
After frying, pour soy sauce over your rice mixture; this adds depth of flavor while loosening everything at the bottom of the skillet. Now it’s time for those frozen vegetables! Mix them into the rice along with toasted sesame oil until warmed through—you want everything nice and hot without being mushy.
Step 6: Finish Up
Finally, remove your skillet from heat and fold in those crispy bacon bits, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Give everything one last gentle toss before serving hot! A drizzle of extra soy sauce on top will enhance those savory flavors even more.
And there you have it—your delightful Breakfast Fried Rice ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice
Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and a little bit of love! Here are some tips to help you achieve that restaurant-quality dish right in your home kitchen.
- Use day-old rice: Leftover rice that’s been chilled in the fridge works best because it’s drier and less likely to clump together, giving you that ideal fried texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows for even frying and prevents steaming, which leaves your rice soggy instead of crispy.
- Adjust the soy sauce: Start with less soy sauce and add gradually to avoid overpowering the dish; you can always add more but can’t take it out once it’s in!
- Add fresh herbs: Tossing in some chopped cilantro or basil at the end can brighten up the flavor profile, adding a fresh twist to the dish.
- Customize ingredients: Feel free to swap in any veggies or proteins you have on hand, like bell peppers or tofu, for added nutrition and variety.
How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice
Serving your Breakfast Fried Rice can be just as enjoyable as making it. With a few simple touches, you can turn this comforting dish into an eye-catching meal!
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb adds freshness and elevates both flavor and presentation.
- Sliced chili peppers: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, fresh sliced chilis can add a spicy kick and vibrant color.
- Toasted sesame seeds: A light sprinkle of these seeds not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
- Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out the savory flavors of your fried rice. Seasonal fruits like watermelon, strawberries, or citrus work wonderfully!
- Miso soup: This warm bowl of umami goodness is a classic pairing with fried rice, offering warmth and depth that complements your main dish perfectly.
- Cucumber salad: A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a crunchy contrast to the soft rice, creating an appealing texture combo.
- Steamed dumplings: Whether filled with vegetables or chicken alternatives, these dumplings make for a satisfying side that pairs beautifully with your breakfast fried rice.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress family or guests alike. Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Fried Rice!
Make Ahead and Storage
Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is an excellent meal prep option that you can easily make ahead of time. This dish keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing
- Allow the fried rice to cool completely before freezing.
- Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help steam the rice.
- Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl until heated through.
FAQs
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Breakfast Fried Rice.
Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with plant-based alternatives such as tempeh or mushrooms for that savory flavor without using animal products.
What type of rice is best for Breakfast Fried Rice?
Day-old rice works best because it’s drier and separates easily. However, any cold cooked rice can be used, including jasmine or basmati.
How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. You can also switch up the protein with tofu or chickpeas to suit your taste!
Is Breakfast Fried Rice a healthy meal option?
Yes! With balanced ingredients like vegetables and eggs, this dish provides protein and fiber while being lower in fat than traditional breakfast options.
What are some serving suggestions for Breakfast Fried Rice?
Serve it with additional soy sauce on the side or top it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs for added flavor!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to start your day with something hearty yet light. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have at home. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!
Breakfast Fried Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Start your day off right with this flavorful and satisfying Breakfast Fried Rice! This quick and easy recipe transforms leftover rice into a delicious breakfast dish that everyone will love. Packed with protein from eggs and your choice of lean meats or plant-based alternatives, plus a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and customizable. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to fuel your day or a way to use up leftovers, this Breakfast Fried Rice is an ideal solution. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a comforting bowl that’s sure to become a breakfast favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups cold cooked rice
- 1 medium white onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- ½ cup frozen corn
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Optional: turkey bacon or tofu for added protein
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook turkey bacon (or preferred protein) over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Scramble beaten eggs in the same skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.
- Sauté diced onions in the rendered fat until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cold cooked rice to the skillet, spreading it evenly. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until crispy.
- Stir in soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, then mix in frozen vegetables until heated through.
- Fold in scrambled eggs and cooked protein before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 280mg
