"Easy and Flavorful: How to Make Delicious Ham Fried Rice"

Fried Rice: a seemingly simple dish with endless possibilities.

It’s a blank canvas for leftover proteins and vegetables, a weeknight savior,

and a delicious way to use up odds and ends in your fridge. But achieving that

perfect balance of fluffy Rice, savory flavors, and a hint of smokiness can be

an art form.

This recipe focuses on ham fried Rice, a classic variation

that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make. With a few key tips

and techniques, you’ll be whipping up restaurant-quality fried Rice in no time,

impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ham Fried Rice:

• The Right Rice: Cold, cooked, and slightly dry Rice is key. Leftover Rice works best, as the starches have time to set, preventing it from becoming mushy in the pan. Aim for medium-grain rice varieties like jasmine or Calrose. If you’re cooking fresh Rice specifically for fried Rice, spread it out on a baking sheet after cooking to cool it quickly and prevent sticking.
• Protein Powerhouse: Ham is the star of the show here. Diced leftover ham, pre-cooked ham steaks, or even thinly sliced deli ham can be used. For extra flavor, consider using smoked ham.
• Veggie Symphony: This is where you can get creative! Classic additions include peas, carrots, chopped scallions, and scrambled eggs. Other options include diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, shredded cabbage, or even chopped mushrooms.
• Flavorful Base: Aromatics like garlic, ginger, and shallots lay the foundation for the dish’s savory profile. Don’t underestimate their power!
• Soy Sauce Symphony: Soy sauce is the backbone of the umami flavor in fried Rice. Use a good-quality soy sauce, preferably a low-sodium variety, to control the salt level. Light soy sauce provides a lighter color, while dark soy sauce adds a deeper color and richer flavor. You can experiment with a combination of both for a nuanced taste.
• Sesame Seed Magic: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty aroma and a delightful textural contrast to the fluffy Rice.

The Art of the Wok (or Pan):

A wok is traditionally used for fried Rice, but a large skillet

or frying pan can work just as well. The key is to use high heat to achieve

that coveted wok hei, which translates to “breath of the wok” in

Cantonese. This high heat sears the ingredients quickly, locking in flavors and

creating a slightly smoky char that elevates the entire dish.

Ready to Work and Roll? Here’s the Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Two tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Three cloves garlic, minced
• One tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 cup chopped shallots or onion
• 2 cups cooked and cooled Rice
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots (optional)
• Two large eggs, beaten
• Three tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (divided)
• One tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Two scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil:Heat the vegetable oil in your wok or pan over high heat.
2. Aromatics First:Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the garlic, ginger, and shallots. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Scramble the Eggs:Push the aromatics to the side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until just set, then push them to the other side of the pan with the aromatics.
4. Time for the Ham:Add the diced ham to the pan and cook for another minute or two until it starts to brown.
5. Veggie Time:If using carrots, add them to the pan and cook for another minute until slightly softened. Then, add the peas and cook for another 30 seconds.
6. The Rice Makes its Entrance:Now comes the star of the show! Push all the ingredients to the sides of the pan, making a well in the center. Add the cold, cooked Rice and spread it out evenly in the pan.
7. Kiss it off. Heat:Let the Rice sit undisturbed for about 30 seconds, allowing it to sear slightly on the bottom. This helps create those delicious crispy bits we all love!

1. Seasoning Symphony:Now for the flavor magic! Drizzle one tablespoon of the soy sauce around the edges of the pan, letting it sizzle, and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and umami flavor.
2. Incorporate and Toss:Using a spatula, gently fold the Rice from the edges towards the center, incorporating the cooked vegetables, ham, and scrambled egg with the Rice. Continue tossing and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the Rice is heated through and everything is well combined.
3. The Finishing Touches:Drizzle the remaining two tablespoons of soy sauce and the oyster sauce (if using) over the Rice, tossing to distribute evenly. Add the toasted sesame oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Plate Up and Garnish:Turn off the heat and transfer the fried Rice to a serving plate. Garnish with the sliced scallions and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Tips for Restaurant-Worthy Ham Fried Rice:

• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Overcooked Rice becomes mushy and ruins the texture of your fried Rice. Aim for slightly al dente grains that retain their shape.
• High Heat is Your Friend: Don’t be afraid of the high heat! It’s crucial for achieving that perfect balance between fluffy Rice and slightly crisp bits.
• Cook in Batches: If you’re using a large amount of rice or protein, cook it in batches to prevent overcrowding in the pan and ensure even cooking.
• Seasoning is Key: Taste your fried Rice as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Start with a little soy sauce and add more gradually to avoid over-salting.
• Leftovers Reimagined: Leftover fried Rice tastes even better the next day! Simply reheat it in a pan or microwave until warmed through.

Flavored Variations:

This recipe serves as a fantastic base for endless variations. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

Pineapple Ham Fried Rice: Add diced pineapple chunks along with the vegetables for a sweet and savory twist.

• Spicy Ham Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies for a kick.

• Kimchi Ham Fried Rice: For a Korean-inspired version, incorporate some kimchi along with protein and veggies.

• Shrimp Fried Rice: Swap the ham for cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.

FAQs: Fried Rice Demystified

Q: Can I use leftover brown Rice for Ham Fried Rice?

A: Yes, you can! Brown Rice tends to have a slightly different texture than white Rice, but it can still be used in fried Rice. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Q: What if I don’t have a wok?

A: No worries! A large skillet or frying pan works just fine. Just make sure it has a wide enough surface area to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

Q: How long does leftover Ham Fried Rice last?

A: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently heat it in a pan or microwave until warmed through.

With this recipe and these tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a fried rice master! So, grab your wok (or pan), gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.