Breakfast Fried Rice

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful way to kickstart your day. This dish combines the comforting flavors of bacon and eggs with the satisfying texture of fried rice, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch. It’s quick to prepare, especially if you have leftover rice on hand, and is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe delivers classic breakfast satisfaction without the heaviness of traditional options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and fresh vegetables creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for using up leftover rice and customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Filling Yet Light: Enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty breakfast without feeling sluggish afterward.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 12” skillet or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• 12” skillet or wok: Provides ample space for frying rice evenly, ensuring a perfect texture.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked bacon while allowing excess fat to drain away.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scramble eggs gently without damaging them while cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for loosening rice from the skillet and mixing in sauces thoroughly.

Ingredients

To create your Breakfast Fried Rice, gather the following ingredients:

Protein

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs

Seasoning

• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper

Cooking Base

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Rice and Vegetables

• 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)

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by lining a plate with paper towels and setting it aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to a cold 12” skillet or wok. Heat over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until crisp, about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to the plate prepared earlier.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

In a bowl, crack the eggs and season with kosher salt and ground pepper. Lightly beat them with a fork. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the skillet. Add the eggs into the skillet, swirling them around to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges are set; then scramble as they cook until desired doneness is reached.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Increase heat to medium-high. Add butter until it melts and foams. Toss in diced onion, sautéing until translucent (5-6 minutes). Then add minced garlic; cook while stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute more).

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add cold cooked rice to the skillet. Toss well with onion and garlic until combined. Smooth out into an even layer; fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Soy Sauce and Vegetables

Pour soy sauce over fried rice; loosen it from the bottom using a wooden spoon. Stir in frozen peas, carrots, corn, and sesame oil. Toss frequently until vegetables are warmed through.

Step 7: Combine All Ingredients

Remove from heat and stir in cooked bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with extra soy sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Fried Rice!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be customized in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fried rice and cater to different tastes.

Classic Soy Sauce Drizzle

• A simple drizzle of extra soy sauce adds saltiness and enhances the umami flavor of the dish.

Fresh Cilantro Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the smoky flavors.

Sriracha for Spice Lovers

• Add a swirl of Sriracha for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their breakfast.

Avocado Slices

• Serve with creamy avocado slices, which add richness and balance the savory elements of the dish.

Fried Egg on Top

• Top your fried rice with a sunny-side-up egg for an indulgent breakfast treat that adds more protein.

Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the fried rice, introducing a zesty brightness that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Breakfast Fried Rice

Making perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using leftover rice helps prevent mushiness, as it’s drier and holds its shape better when frying.

• High Heat Cooking: Cooking over high heat allows you to achieve that desirable crispy texture without steaming the rice.

• Add Ingredients at Right Times: Add ingredients like vegetables at the right moment to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, which affects texture.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish while cooking; this ensures you get the seasoning just right.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize with proteins like shrimp or tofu, or add different veggies based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Breakfast Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Breakfast Fried Rice can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the fried rice. It’s light yet flavorful.

2. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables are a delightful crunchy side that complements the soft texture of fried rice.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet balance against savory fried rice, making it perfect for breakfast.

4. Kimchi: The tangy and spicy flavor of kimchi can add an exciting dimension to your meal, enhancing its Asian fusion theme.

5. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a healthy, protein-rich snack that pairs well with any Asian-inspired dish.

6. Pickled Vegetables: Serve assorted pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of fried rice.

7. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles dressed in soy sauce and sesame oil make for a tasty side that echoes the flavors in your main dish.

8. Japanese Pancakes (Okonomiyaki): Fluffy okonomiyaki topped with bonito flakes adds heartiness and fun textures beside your Breakfast Fried Rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Breakfast Fried Rice, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice may clump together, making it hard to fry. Use cold, day-old rice for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much rice at once can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in batches if necessary for even texture and flavor.
• Skipping the Bacon Fat: The bacon fat adds essential flavor. Don’t drain it all; keep some in the pan for cooking other ingredients.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season at each step can result in bland rice. Season the eggs, veggies, and rice separately for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient has its cooking time. Pay attention to avoid overcooking vegetables or undercooking the eggs.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Breakfast Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Breakfast Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of oil or water and stir-fry until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Breakfast Fried Rice that can help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use leftover rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Yes, leftover rice is perfect for this recipe! Cold rice prevents clumping and allows for better frying.

What proteins can I add to my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to customize with additional proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu based on your preference.

How do I make my Breakfast Fried Rice vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable oil instead. You can also add more vegetables or tofu for protein.

Is Breakfast Fried Rice healthy?

While it is delicious, you can make it healthier by using less oil and adding more vegetables.

Can I prepare Breakfast Fried Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer as needed.

Final Thoughts

Breakfast Fried Rice is not only a satisfying dish but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using up leftovers and allows you to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different proteins, this recipe delivers comfort and joy every morning. Give it a try!