Fried Rice Recipe

Prepare rice

If you don’t have day-old rice, cook 2 cups dry long-grain rice to yield about 4 cups cooked. Spread cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate 2–4 hours to dry slightly. Break up any clumps with a fork before using.

Scramble eggs

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbs neutral oil. Beat 3 eggs lightly with a pinch of salt. Pour eggs into the hot pan, let set briefly, then scramble until just-cooked but still soft. Transfer eggs to a bowl and set aside.

Wipe the pan clean or use the same wok; increase heat to high. Add 1 tbs neutral oil and the butter (or extra oil). When shimmering, add diced onion and stir-fry 1–2 minutes until translucent.

Add minced garlic and ginger. Stir constantly for 20–30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Add thawed peas and carrots and any chosen cooked protein (1 cup). Stir-fry 1–2 minutes to heat through and incorporate flavors.

Push vegetables and protein to the side of the wok to create an open hot surface. Add the remaining 1 tbs oil if needed and add the cold, broken-up rice in an even layer. Let rice sit without stirring for 20–30 seconds to allow it to slightly crisp, then stir-fry, breaking up any remaining clumps. Aim to coat rice with oil and lightly toast it—about 2–3 minutes.

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and fold into the rice and vegetables.

Pour 2 tbs light soy sauce, 1 tsp dark soy (if using), and 1 tbs oyster sauce evenly over the rice. Stir quickly and constantly for 1–2 minutes so sauce is distributed and rice is evenly colored. Taste and add up to 0.5 tsp kosher salt if needed and 0.5 tsp white or black pepper.

Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil over the rice, add sliced scallions (reserve a few for garnish), and toss everything together for another 30 seconds.

Turn off heat and transfer fried rice to a serving bowl or plate. Garnish with remaining scallions. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes: For best texture, use cold day-old rice and a very hot pan. Adjust soy and salt to personal taste; add chili sauce or toasted sesame seeds if desired.