Last updated Jun. 19, 2024 by Peter Jakes
Title: Easy Cheap Fried Rice Recipe: Tasty Budget Meal For Your Family
Fried rice is a universally adored dish, praised for its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and comforting flavors. It’s versatile enough to cater to different tastes and can be made using items you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty lunch, or just a delicious side dish, this easy and cheap fried rice recipe is your go-to solution!
Why Fried Rice?
Fried rice is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a budget-friendly and resourceful way to use leftovers. It allows you to transform plain rice and a few vegetables into a delightful dish with minimal effort and time. The best part? You can customize it based on what you have available, making it an extremely flexible and economical option for family meals.
Ingredients
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make this easy and cheap fried rice:
- Cooked Rice: 3 cups (preferably day-old or chilled)
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp
- Vegetables: 1 cup mixed frozen or fresh vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Soy Sauce: 3 tbsp
- Oyster Sauce (optional): 1 tbsp
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Green Onions: 2, chopped (for garnish)
- Protein (optional): Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Preparation Steps
-
Prepare the Rice:
If you have leftover rice from a previous meal, this is perfect. If not, cook some rice and allow it to cool in the fridge for an hour or so. This helps the grains separate, which is ideal for frying. -
Heat the Pan:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding any ingredients. -
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté until fragrant. If using fresh vegetables, add them at this stage and cook until they’re tender. -
Add the Eggs:
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables. -
Combine Rice and Vegetables:
Add the chilled rice to the pan along with another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir well to break up any clumps and make sure the rice is evenly coated with oil. -
Season the Rice:
Pour in the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce, stirring constantly to distribute the sauces evenly throughout the rice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. -
Add Your Protein:
If you’re including a protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it now. Make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it into the rice. - Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Why This Recipe is Budget-Friendly
-
Use of Leftovers:
This recipe is excellent for using leftover rice and vegetables, reducing waste and making your meals more sustainable. -
Affordable Ingredients:
The recipe calls for common, inexpensive ingredients like rice, vegetables, and eggs, all of which are budget-friendly. - Versatile Add-Ins:
You can add any leftover meats or proteins from previous meals, making the recipe flexible and adaptable.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
-
Use Cold Rice:
Day-old rice that has been chilled is ideal because it’s less sticky and holds up better during frying. -
Prep Before Cooking:
Have all your ingredients ready and within reach, as the cooking process moves quickly. -
High Heat:
Cook the rice on high heat for a slightly crispy texture and to avoid a soggy dish. - Keep It Moving:
Continuously stir and toss the rice to prevent it from sticking to the pan and to ensure even cooking.
Variations of Fried Rice
-
Vegetarian Fried Rice:
Skip the meat and double up on vegetables or add tofu for a protein boost. -
Chicken Fried Rice:
Add diced, cooked chicken for some extra protein and flavor. -
Shrimp Fried Rice:
Cook shrimp separately and then add it to the fried rice for a seafood twist. -
Kimchi Fried Rice:
Add chopped kimchi for a spicy, tangy variation. - Curry Fried Rice:
Stir in some curry powder for an aromatic and flavorful change.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
A1: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky, making it harder to achieve the perfect fried rice texture. If you need to use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Q2: What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have dietary restrictions?
A2: You can use tamari sauce if you’re gluten-free or coconut aminos for a soy-free option. Both substitutes will provide a similar umami flavor.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just ensure they’re chopped into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
Q4: How can I add more protein to the dish?
A4: Besides eggs, you can add cooked and diced chicken, shrimp, beef, tofu, or even canned beans. Cook the protein separately and mix it into the fried rice towards the end.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or the microwave until heated through.
Q6: Can I make fried rice without eggs?
A6: Yes, you can omit the eggs if you wish. You can also add extra vegetables or tofu to bulk up the dish.
Q7: Is there a way to make fried rice spicier?
A7: To add heat, you can include diced chili peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or some red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
Q8: What type of rice is best for fried rice?
A8: Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati works well because it remains separate and fluffy. However, you can use any type of rice you have on hand.
Conclusion
This easy and cheap fried rice recipe is an excellent way to provide a tasty, nutritious meal for your family without breaking the bank. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a perfect dish for using up leftovers and catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this fried rice recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the simplicity, flavors, and satisfaction of creating a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and seasonings, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Happy cooking!
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