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### Instructions
**1. Prepare the rice:**
Start by cooking the rice. Day-old rice is ideal because the grains are firmer and less sticky, which prevents clumping when fried. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool down and dry out a bit before using it.
**2. Cook the eggs:**
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add about 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
**3. Sauté the aromatics:**
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
**4. Add the vegetables and protein:**
Next, toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through. If you’re using cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork, add it to the pan now and stir it in.
**5. Fry the rice:**
Now, add the day-old rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and mix the rice with the vegetables and protein. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the rice is hot and slightly crispy around the edges.
**6. Season the rice:**
Once the rice is evenly heated, drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well-coated in the sauce. Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
**7. Add the eggs back in:**
Finally, add the cooked scrambled eggs back into the pan and stir them into the rice. You want the eggs to be evenly distributed throughout the fried rice.
**8. Garnish and serve:**
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve the fried rice as is, or with a side of pickled vegetables or a protein of your choice.
### Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
1. **Use day-old rice:**
Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Day-old rice is drier and the grains are more separate, making it ideal for fried rice. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread fresh rice on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to dry it out before using it.
2. **Keep the heat high:**
Fried rice is best cooked over medium-high to high heat. This helps the rice get crispy and develop a slightly caramelized flavor. The high heat also ensures that all the ingredients cook quickly and evenly.
3. **Don’t overcrowd the pan:**
If you’re making a large batch, it’s best to cook the rice in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying, and the rice won’t get that crispy texture that makes fried rice so special.
4. **Use a wok for the best results:**
If you have a wok, use it! A wok allows for high heat and plenty of space to toss the rice, resulting in the perfect texture and flavor. However, a large skillet works just as well.
5. **Customize to your liking:**
Fried rice is incredibly customizable. Feel free to add different proteins (like tofu, beef, or pork), vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms), or even extras like pineapple for a sweet twist. You can also play with seasonings like oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or chili paste for added flavor.
### Why Fried Rice is So Popular
Fried rice is a beloved dish worldwide because it’s so adaptable and flavorful. The beauty of fried rice lies in its simplicity—it’s made with a handful of ingredients, but the combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a depth of flavor that’s deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers, making it both an economical and resourceful dish.
From the crispy edges of the rice to the tender vegetables and savory eggs, fried rice is the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and easy to serve, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.
### Conclusion
**Fried rice** is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal, from a quick weeknight dinner to a flavorful side dish for a special gathering. With its savory mix of rice, eggs, vegetables, and protein, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re using leftovers or preparing it from scratch, this dish always comes out delicious and full of flavor.
Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make!
