Fried Rice

                                                                         

This is a recipe I learned from a Taiwanese woman about 35 years ago.  I have adapted and changed it several times to fit the likes and dislikes of my family.  This can be served as a side dish or as a meal in itself.  If I serve it as a meal, I try to make sure it has sufficient protein.  I always add eggs, and one other animal protein, usually either ham or pork.  You could also use chicken or shrimp. I also use edamame because it is higher in protein than the traditional green peas.  If you don't eat soy, you could use peas or green beans. The original recipe calls for regular long grain rice, but because I am trying to eat healthier, I have been making it with brown rice for a few years now. 

Fried Rice

1 cup rice (uncooked)
1 onion chopped
2 cloves garlic chopped
4 eggs beaten
1 to 2 cups ham, pork, chicken or shrimp (cooked)
1 package edamame or frozen green peas defrosted
1 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice Powder (found in the international section of your supermarket)
3 - 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 scallions chopped

Cook rice according to package directions.  While the rice is cooking, chop onions and garlic.  Add two tablespoons of oil to a wok or large skillet with the heat turned to high.  When the oil is hot, add the eggs to the pan and stir constantly.  I use chopsticks for this, but a fork will work just as well.  Cook for three or four minutes or until the eggs are cooked through and somewhat dry.  Remove the eggs to a bowl and set aside.  Add 1 or 2 teaspoons of oil to the pan and lower the heat to medium.  Add the onions and garlic.  Cook until the onion begins to soften.  Chop ham or pork and add to the onion in the skillet, along with the five spice powder.  Mix well.  Turn heat to low and add the eggs back to the pan along with the edamame or peas.  At this point the rice should be cooked, add to the pan along with a tablespoon of vegetable oil and mix well.  Turn the heat back to high or medium high..  Cook for several minutes, stirring often, then add soy sauce and sesame oil.  Cook for about five more minutes, stirring often.  Transfer to a bowl and top with chopped scallions.  Serve with additional soy sauce for those who want it.  Enjoy!

Happy Cooking!

Carol
a.k.a.
Nonnie