Pork fried rice is a classic dish loved by many for its savory flavors and comforting appeal. This homemade version offers a quick and easy way to enjoy this beloved takeout favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. With tender pieces of pork, fragrant jasmine rice, crisp vegetables, and a hint of soy sauce, this dish is both satisfying and versatile. Whether served as a main course or as a side dish, pork fried rice is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, making it at home allows you to customize the ingredients and control the level of seasoning, ensuring a delicious and wholesome meal every time.
Ingredients for Delicious Homemade Pork Fried Rice
To make this delectable pork fried rice, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Cooled and preferably day-old for best results.
- 8 ounces pork loin or pork tenderloin: Cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if desired.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 eggs: Lightly beaten.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For stir-frying.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables: Such as diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 1 small onion: Finely chopped.
- 2 green onions: Sliced, for garnish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Sesame oil: For drizzling (optional).
- Sriracha sauce: For serving (optional).
How to Make Delicious Homemade Pork Fried Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare your own pork fried rice:
- Marinate the Pork:
- In a small bowl, combine the pork pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them cook undisturbed for a minute or two until they start to set.
- Using a spatula, gently scramble the eggs until they are cooked through but still moist. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Pork:
- In the same skillet, add the marinated pork pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a minute to sear and develop a golden crust.
- Stir-fry the pork for 3-4 minutes until it is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Increase the heat to high and add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and spread the rice evenly.
- Pour the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce over the rice and toss everything together until well combined.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return the cooked pork and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pork fried rice to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and drizzle with a little sesame oil for extra flavor, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of sriracha sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
About the Main Ingredients
Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice is a fragrant, long-grain variety of rice commonly used in Asian cuisine. It has a delicate aroma and a slightly sticky texture when cooked, making it ideal for fried rice dishes. Day-old rice works best for fried rice as it has had time to dry out slightly, resulting in a firmer texture that holds up well to stir-frying.
Pork: Pork loin or pork tenderloin are lean cuts of meat that work well in fried rice. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the marinade and sauce beautifully. Pork adds protein to the dish, making it a satisfying and hearty meal option.
Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: Soy sauce provides saltiness and umami depth to the fried rice, while oyster sauce adds a rich, savory flavor. Together, they create a deliciously seasoned base for the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Mixed Vegetables: Mixed vegetables such as diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers add color, texture, and nutritional value to the fried rice. They contribute vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making the dish more wholesome and balanced. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on your preferences.
Eggs: Eggs are a classic ingredient in fried rice, adding richness and protein. They are typically scrambled and then stirred into the rice, creating tasty pockets of flavor throughout the dish. Eggs also help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the dish’s overall texture.
Garlic and Onion: Minced garlic and finely chopped onion provide aromatic flavor and depth to the fried rice. They are sautéed until softened and fragrant, infusing the dish with their delicious essence.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions are used as a fresh, crisp garnish for the fried rice. They add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients. Green onions are often added at the end of cooking to preserve their brightness and texture.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil adds a final touch of nutty aroma and flavor to the pork fried rice. It enhances the overall taste of the dish and provides a subtle richness that elevates the dining experience. Use toasted sesame oil for the best flavor.
By using these ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying homemade pork fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout version. This recipe is customizable, so feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Enjoy the flavors and textures of this classic dish in the comfort of your own home!
