Ham Fried Rice Recipe

Ham Fried Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that transforms leftover rice and ham into a delicious, quick meal. It combines ham, rice, eggs, vegetables, and savory seasonings into a dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side. It’s also a versatile recipe, allowing you to swap in your favorite ingredients. Below is a full recipe with an explanation of each step, followed by frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help guide you through making perfect ham fried rice.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
  Using leftover rice ensures the grains are dry and separate, perfect for frying.
• 1 cup diced ham
  The salty and savory flavor of ham adds richness to the dish. Leftover baked ham or deli ham both work well.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  Used for frying the rice and ingredients.
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  Eggs add richness and a fluffy texture to the fried rice.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic provides a savory depth to the dish.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
  Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient and add color and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  For seasoning and giving the dish a savory, umami-rich taste.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  For added depth and savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  Gives the fried rice a subtle, nutty aroma.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  Adjust seasoning to balance the flavors.
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  Optional, but adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before starting the cooking process, it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Fried rice is cooked quickly, so having everything prepared in advance ensures a smooth process.

1. Rice: Use day-old rice if possible, as it’s drier and less sticky, which results in better texture. If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and let it cool for 30 minutes to dry out slightly.
2. Ham: Dice the ham into small, bite-sized pieces. Leftover baked ham adds a delicious smoky flavor, but deli ham works well too.
3. Eggs: Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside.
4. Vegetables: If you’re using frozen vegetables, thaw them slightly before cooking. Fresh vegetables like diced carrots and peas can also be used but may require a few extra minutes to cook.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

1. Heat a wok or large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. You want soft, fluffy eggs. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Turn the heat to medium-high.
2. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are soft. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the ham to the pan and stir-fry for another 2 minutes to warm it through and slightly brown the edges.
4. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through but still slightly crisp.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

1. Add the day-old cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with the back of a spatula. Stir-fry everything together, ensuring the rice heats evenly and becomes slightly crispy on the edges.
2. Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and continue to stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and starts to take on a golden-brown color.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

1. Return the cooked eggs to the pan, gently breaking them up into the rice. Stir everything together to combine the eggs with the rice, ham, and vegetables.
2. Drizzle the sesame oil over the rice and stir to evenly distribute the flavor.
3. Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, remove the pan from the heat.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Tips for Perfect Ham Fried Rice:

• Use cold, day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky, which can result in clumpy fried rice. Day-old rice is drier, making it ideal for frying.
• High heat: Stir-frying over high heat ensures the rice and other ingredients cook quickly and evenly without becoming soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you have a small pan, it’s better to fry the rice in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of rice for fried rice?
Yes! While long-grain white rice is the most common choice for fried rice, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. The key is ensuring the rice is dry and slightly firm, so it doesn’t turn mushy during frying.

2. What other proteins can I use instead of ham?
Ham is a delicious option, but you can easily substitute other proteins based on what you have on hand. Cooked chicken, shrimp, bacon, or even tofu work wonderfully in fried rice. If using raw protein like shrimp or chicken, cook it first before adding the rice to ensure it’s fully cooked.

3. How can I make my fried rice gluten-free?
To make gluten-free ham fried rice, ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free. Regular soy sauce contains wheat, but tamari or other gluten-free soy sauce alternatives work just as well in this recipe. Also, check that any other sauces or seasonings (like oyster sauce) are gluten-free.

4. Can I add other vegetables to ham fried rice?
Absolutely! Fried rice is a versatile dish, so feel free to add any vegetables you like. Common additions include bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, or snap peas. Just make sure to chop the vegetables small so they cook quickly and evenly with the rice.

5. How do I store and reheat leftover fried rice?
Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it, but for the best texture, reheat it in a hot pan with a little oil. Stir-fry the rice for a few minutes until heated through and slightly crispy again.