After a long day filled with errands and countless to-do lists, there’s nothing quite like the comforting familiarity of a home-cooked meal to lift my spirits. I still recall the delight of discovering this Pork Fried Rice recipe tucked away in my recipe box; it turned out to be a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
Imagine the irresistible aroma of savory pork sizzling alongside vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in fluffy rice. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this dish transforms ordinary leftovers into something extraordinary. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious—perfect for anyone tired of the same old fast-food routine.
Whether you’re an experienced chef looking to simplify your weeknight dinners or a home cook eager to impress family and friends, this Pork Fried Rice is a delightful dish that will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and recreate that delicious restaurant dish right at home!
Why You'll Love This Pork Fried Rice
- This Pork Fried Rice is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
- The blend of savory pork and colorful vegetables creates a burst of flavor in every bite that your taste buds will adore.
- Its versatility means you can customize it with any ingredients you have on hand, making it perfect for using up leftovers.
- The visual appeal of this dish, with its vibrant colors and inviting aromas, makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dinner table.
- This recipe is sure to please a crowd, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.
- Prepare to be delighted by a home-cooked meal that feels like a restaurant experience!
Pork Fried Rice Ingredients
• Get ready for a flavor-packed dish!
For the Rice
- Cooked rice – Use day-old rice for the best texture; it stays firm and doesn’t clump.
For the Pork
- Pork tenderloin – Thinly sliced for quick cooking; you can substitute with chicken or shrimp if desired.
For the Sauces
- Soy sauce – Adds a salty depth; low-sodium options are great for health-conscious cooks.
- Oyster sauce – Enhances umami flavors; if you don’t have it, hoisin sauce works too.
- Sesame oil – Provides a nutty aroma; a little goes a long way, balancing the dish perfectly.
For the Vegetables
- Mixed vegetables – A blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds color and nutrition; feel free to toss in your favorites!
- Green onions – Chopped for a fresh garnish; scallions can replace them if needed.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavor; use less if you're averse to garlic.
For the Eggs
- Large eggs – Scramble them right in the pan; for a healthier option, use egg whites.
For Cooking
- Ground black pepper – A touch adds warmth; adjust to taste for your spice preference.
- Vegetable oil – High smoke point oil for frying; can be replaced with canola or peanut oil.
- Salt – Season to taste; watch the sodium if using soy sauce!
Prepare to enjoy this delightful Pork Fried Rice!
How to Make Pork Fried Rice
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This will provide a perfect sizzle for your ingredients!
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Cook Pork: Add the thinly sliced pork to the hot pan. Stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes, ensuring those lovely juices seal in.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and tender.
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Scramble Eggs: Push the pork and veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
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Incorporate Rice: Add the cooked rice into the skillet. Break up any clumps and combine it well with the pork, veggies, and eggs, stirring until evenly distributed.
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Flavor Up: Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Season and Serve: Taste your delightful Pork Fried Rice and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired for that added freshness.
Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a crunchy touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pork Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delicious twists!
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Cauliflower Rice: Substitute regular rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that’s still fluffy and satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to ignite the heat and tantalize your taste buds for those who crave spice.
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Veggie Boost: Include extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added color, crunch, and nutrients, giving your fried rice even more appeal.
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Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free and soy-free alternative that mimics its delicious, savory flavor.
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Protein Variety: Swap out pork for chicken, beef, or tofu to suit your dietary preferences; marinating the protein first can add a delightful depth.
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Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some cashews or peanuts at the end for an extra layer of texture and a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the dish.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh cilantro or basil sprinkled on top before serving will refresh the dish, adding a lovely aromatic note to each bite!
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Sweetness: For a unique twist, add a dash of sweet chili sauce for a sweet-and-spicy balance that will surprise and delight your palate!
Make Ahead Options
These Pork Fried Rice bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pork and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours before you plan to serve it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply stir-fry the pork and veggies, then let the mixture cool before transferring it to an airtight container. For the best texture, use day-old rice or cook your rice ahead of time and refrigerate it as well. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the pork and vegetables in a skillet, add the rice, and incorporate the sauces for a delicious, hassle-free dinner that saves time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Pork Fried Rice?
Imagine a cozy table filled with delicious dishes that perfectly complement your flavorful fried rice, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Sweet and Sour Chicken: The tangy sauce adds a pleasant contrast to the savory pork, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Egg Rolls: Crisp and lightly fried, these provide a delightful crunch while packing a flavorsome punch that pairs beautifully with the rice.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side offers freshness and a satisfying crunch, balancing out the richness of the fried rice.
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Hot and Sour Soup: A warm and comforting addition, this soup brings a spicy kick and a lovely broth that accents the dishes on your table.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, the cool cucumbers with sesame dressing add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making each bite a treat.
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Chili Garlic Shrimp: Spicy and vibrant, they bring a pop of heat, creating an exciting contrast to the savory notes of the pork fried rice.
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Plum Sauce: A sweet dip that enhances the meal, its sticky richness compliments the stir-fried flavors delightfully.
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Fortune Cookies: End your meal on a fun note; the sweet crunch of these little treats brings joy and surprise to the table.
How to Store and Freeze Pork Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freezer: You can freeze Pork Fried Rice for up to 3 months. Pack it in freezer-safe bags, squeezing out excess air before sealing.
Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Heat on the stove or microwave until heated through, ensuring it's hot all the way to the center.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Pork Fried Rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best Pork Fried Rice, use day-old rice as it is drier and less likely to clump together.
- A common mistake is overcooking the pork; keep an eye on it and stir-fry until just browned to maintain its moisture.
- When scrambling the eggs, push the other ingredients to the side to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Finally, adjust the seasoning after the sauces are added, as the soy sauce can vary in saltiness depending on the brand used.
Pork Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for Pork Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is best because it’s slightly drier and doesn’t clump together, making for perfect fried rice. If you don’t have leftover rice, using freshly cooked rice is okay too; just make sure to cool it down quickly by spreading it on a baking sheet before using.
How should I store leftover Pork Fried Rice?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to allow it to cool before placing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious!
Can I freeze Pork Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Pack the Pork Fried Rice in freezer-safe bags and squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, I'll recommend thawing it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
What if my Pork Fried Rice is too dry?
Very good question! If you find that your Pork Fried Rice is indeed on the dry side, just add a little bit of broths, like chicken broth, or even soy sauce when reheating. Stir it in and give it a few minutes on the stovetop while stirring continuously to soak up those flavors!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! For those with specific allergies, always check the labels of your sauces to ensure they don't contain allergens like gluten or shellfish. If serving to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them human food that’s high in salt or spices, including your Pork Fried Rice—so keep it human-only!
Pork Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced pork to the hot pan. Stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Push the pork and veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice into the skillet, breaking up any clumps and stirring until evenly distributed.
- Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions.
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