Breakfast Fried Rice

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings joy to any morning. If you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying breakfast that feels like a treat, this Breakfast Fried Rice is just the ticket! It’s one of my favorite recipes because it combines wholesome ingredients with incredible flavors, and it’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover rice!

This dish is not only fantastic for breakfast but also works wonderfully for lunch or a light dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or whipping up something special for family gatherings, this Breakfast Fried Rice will surely impress everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the savory flavors and colorful veggies in this dish.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!
• Leftover Friendly: Perfect for using up leftover rice, this dish never goes to waste in my kitchen.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of flavors makes every bite feel indulgent without the guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this scrumptious Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Many of these might already be sitting in your pantry!

For the Base

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best things about Breakfast Fried Rice is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or any other favorite vegetables to boost nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chili flakes or sriracha for an extra kick!
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while enjoying all those delicious flavors.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels and setting it aside. In a cold 12” skillet or wok, add your chopped bacon. Heating it gradually allows the fat to render properly. Stir occasionally until it’s crispy—around 10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on the paper towels. This step is crucial as it gives your dish that lovely smoky flavor!

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks, crack the eggs into a bowl and season them with kosher salt and ground pepper. Lightly beat them with a fork until mixed well. This little bit of seasoning elevates the egg’s taste! After draining most of the fat from your skillet (leave about 2 tablespoons), add the eggs and swirl them around to coat the pan. Cook until they set slightly at the edges before scrambling gently until they reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Now it’s time to bring some aromatics into play! Increase your heat to medium-high and melt butter in your skillet until foamy. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent—about 5-6 minutes—to unlock their natural sweetness. Then toss in minced garlic and stir constantly for another minute until fragrant; this will create a beautiful base flavor for your rice!

Step 4: Add Cold Rice

Next, add your cold cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well with onions and garlic. Spread everything into an even layer in the pan; allow it to fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This step helps develop that wonderful fried texture we all love. Don’t rush it; let that rice get nice and crispy!

Step 5: Combine Flavors

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture and use a wooden spoon to loosen anything stuck at the bottom of your skillet. Then add frozen peas, carrots, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined—this is where all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 6: Finish It Off

Finally, remove from heat and fold in that crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Give everything a good mix so each bite is filled with goodness! Serve immediately while hot—and don’t forget additional soy sauce on the side if someone wants an extra splash of flavor.

And there you have it—your very own Breakfast Fried Rice ready to delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Cooking breakfast fried rice can be a breeze with a few insider tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, leftover rice helps prevent the grains from becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky, so plan ahead for the best results!
• Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time: Chop your vegetables and measure out sauces before starting. This makes cooking quick and efficient, allowing you to enjoy your meal sooner!
• Don’t Rush the Frying: Allow the rice to fry undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This helps create that delightful crispy texture that makes fried rice so satisfying.
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can add color and nutrition, making every batch unique.
• Add Extra Flavor with Seasonings: Consider adding some chili flakes or ginger for an extra kick. A little spice or zest can elevate the flavor profile and make each bite more interesting.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving breakfast fried rice is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes to create a delightful meal experience.

Garnishes

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances out the savory flavors of the fried rice.
• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings brightness and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch that adds texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the savory rice. Think berries, melons, and citrus for a burst of color!
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the flavors beautifully while adding warmth and comfort to your meal.
• Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are not only healthy but also fun to eat! Simply sprinkle with sea salt for a tasty side.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds crunch and acidity, which contrasts nicely with the rich breakfast fried rice.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Breakfast Fried Rice will not only be delicious but also visually appealing – perfect for impressing family or guests! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! Whip up a big batch, and you’ll have satisfying meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the rice to cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled fried rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rice overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quick thaw.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or tempeh for a healthier option while still enjoying that savory flavor.

How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or tofu can elevate your breakfast fried rice even further.

What makes this Breakfast Fried Rice unique?

This recipe offers a healthier take on traditional fried rice by using less oil and incorporating protein-rich eggs along with fresh vegetables. It’s comforting yet light!

Can I use day-old rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Yes! Day-old rice is actually preferred as it’s drier, which helps achieve that perfect fried texture without becoming mushy.

How do I store leftovers of Breakfast Fried Rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion it into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to a month.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Breakfast Fried Rice as much as I do! It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that can be tailored to your tastes and is perfect for busy mornings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe delivers comforting flavors without any fuss. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share how yours turned out!

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