Fried Rice Recipe

Prepare rice (make ahead)

Cook long-grain white rice according to package instructions (about 1 cup uncooked yields ~3 cups cooked). Spread cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool, then refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight so grains are dry and separated. Use chilled rice for best texture.

Prep aromatics

Peel and finely dice the yellow onion. Mince the garlic and ginger. Thinly slice the scallions, keeping whites and greens separate.

In a small bowl whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy (if using), and white pepper. Set sauce aside.

Heat a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat.

Add diced carrot and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until carrot begins to soften.

Add thawed peas and any cooked protein (if using). Stir-fry 30–60 seconds just to warm through. Transfer vegetables and protein to a bowl and set aside.

Wipe out the wok if it has burned bits, then heat over high heat. Add remaining 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and the sesame oil. When oil is shimmering, add the eggs. Let set 10–15 seconds then scramble quickly until just cooked. Push eggs to one side.

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger to the hot oil. Stir-fry 30–45 seconds until fragrant and onion becomes translucent (do not let garlic burn).

Increase heat to very high. Add chilled rice and spread it across the wok. Let rice sit undisturbed 20–30 seconds to get a little color, then stir and break up clumps. Continue to stir-fry 2–3 minutes so rice heats through and separates.

Return the cooked vegetables and protein to the wok with the rice. Stir to combine.

Pour the sauce evenly over the rice and toss thoroughly so rice and ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning: add up to 1/4 teaspoon salt or a splash more soy if needed.

Add sliced scallion greens and toss once more. Remove from heat.

Transfer fried rice to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro or additional scallions and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.