Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that combines the comforting flavors of fried rice with the ease of a one-pan bake, Baked Fried Rice is the perfect dish for you. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also boasts a fantastic combination of textures and flavors, thanks to the perfect cooking methods for the ingredients used. With easy-to-find components, you can create a meal that caters to both family dinners and gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, UNCOOKED
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock, low sodium
1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (dry sherry, mirin, or sake)
2 garlic cloves, minced with a crusher
2 cups frozen diced vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn mix)
1/4 tsp white pepper
1 1/4 cups (180g) bacon or ham, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves up to 6 as a side or 4 as a main dish
This Baked Fried Rice recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly flexible. You can add various proteins or adjust the mix of vegetables based on what you have on hand. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a wonderful dish that is sure to please. Enjoy your cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C / 390°F (180°C fan).
Mix ingredients in baking dish
In a baking dish (~22 x 32cm / 9 x 13″), combine the uncooked long grain white rice, chicken or vegetable stock, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, minced garlic, frozen diced vegetables, and white pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly and spread the rice evenly across the pan.
Top with bacon
Scatter the chopped uncooked bacon evenly across the surface of the rice mixture.
Bake covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
Bake uncovered
After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This will help to brown the bacon. By this time, the liquid should be mostly absorbed, and the rice will be cooked but may appear wet at this stage.
Rest
Remove the baking dish from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes, which will enable the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.
Fluff
After resting, add the finely sliced green onions and sesame oil to the rice mixture. Use a fork to fluff the rice, ensuring that the grains are separated and perfectly cooked. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Rice types
Best results are achieved with long grain rice for a crumbly texture. Basmati rice is also a good alternative. Medium and short grain rice can be used but may result in a stickier texture. Jasmine rice is not recommended. Do not rinse the rice unless desired; if rinsed, reduce the water by 2 tablespoons.
Light soy sauce
Light soy sauce enhances flavor without darkening the rice. Do not substitute with dark soy sauce as it is too strong.
Chinese cooking wine
This ingredient adds depth; substitutes include dry sherry (best option), cooking sake, or mirin. For a non-alcoholic option, omit the wine and add extra soy sauce and unsalted butter.
Fresh veg
When using fresh vegetables instead of frozen, include an additional 1/4 cup of water. Choose appropriate fresh vegetables as stated, and note specific timing for adding certain vegetables during baking.
Bacon
Add the bacon raw to achieve a golden, flavorful result. Alternatives include ham or various sausages, or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option but consider adding crispy fried shallots as a garnish.
Pan size matters
Use the specified size for optimal results; larger pans will dry out the rice, while smaller ones may lead to uneven cooking.
Add-in options
Consider adding options like scrambled eggs, cooked chicken, or raw shrimp during the baking process. For a spicy kick, incorporate sriracha or kimchi.
Storage
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave. It is best to assemble and bake immediately; however, it can be pre-cooked and reheated.
Nutrition information
Nutrition per serving is calculated assuming a total of 5 servings.
Cook Techniques
Rice Preparation
Using long grain white rice ensures a fluffy and crumbly texture. Avoid rinsing unless necessary; if rinsed, reduce the water by 2 tbsp.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, ensuring an even spread of rice for consistent cooking.
Baking Covered
Bake covered with foil to trap steam for cooking the rice evenly. This step ensures the liquid is absorbed properly.
Baking Uncovered
Remove the foil to allow the bacon to crisp and the rice to light color; continue baking to enhance flavors.
Resting the Dish
Let the dish rest after baking to allow excess moisture to absorb; this results in perfect texture.
Fluffing
Add green onion and sesame oil before fluffing the rice with a fork for better distribution of flavors.
FAQ
Can I use different types of rice?
Yes, basmati and medium or short grain white rice work, but avoid jasmine rice and other specialty rices.
What can I use instead of Chinese cooking wine?
Dry sherry, cooking sake, or mirin can be used; you can also omit it and add extra soy sauce and butter.
What if I want to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
If using fresh vegetables, add 1/4 cup of water to account for moisture loss from frozen veggies.
Can I substitute bacon with something else?
Yes, alternatives include ham, Chinese sausage, or smoked sausages. For a vegetarian option, consider fried tofu puffs or crispy fried shallots.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat using a microwave for best results.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
It’s best to bake immediately after mixing. However, cooked fried rice reheat very well.
Conclusion
This Baked Fried Rice recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the best flavors of the pantry, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With the ease of a “dump and bake” method, it offers a time-saving approach without sacrificing taste. Enjoy a satisfying blend of textures and aromas, ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variations
Incorporate different vegetables such as bell peppers, cauliflower, broccoli, or asparagus to add vibrant color and nutrition.
Protein Options
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even diced tofu for extra protein, enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
Spice It Up
For a spicy kick, stir in some sriracha or a tablespoon of your favorite chili paste.
Asian Twist
Mix in some cooked char siu (Chinese BBQ pork) for an authentic Asian flavor profile.
Herbs and Aromatics
Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing twist, or add minced ginger for extra depth of flavor.
Breakfast Fried Rice
Incorporate scrambled eggs and green onions for a delightful breakfast twist.
Crispy Topping
Top the rice with crispy fried shallots or onions right before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Make it Creamy
Stir in some unsalted butter or a splash of cream at the end for a richer mouthfeel.
