Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast that’s both comforting and delicious, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Breakfast Fried Rice. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or lazy weekends. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice while delivering that savory flavor that makes breakfast feel like a special treat.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility! You can whip it up in no time, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just need to power through your weekday routine, Breakfast Fried Rice has got your back.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the savory flavors of fried rice, making it perfect for all ages.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home—this dish adapts beautifully!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious components, it’s comfort food without the guilt.
• Great for Leftovers: Use up any leftover rice or veggies you have in the fridge for a deliciously eco-friendly meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Breakfast Fried Rice is a breeze! These wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

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

For the Flavor

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Rice

• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

For the Veggies

• 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! You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: If bacon isn’t your thing, try diced chicken, turkey sausage, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes if you want to turn up the heat!
• Change the grains: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor profile.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels. This will help absorb excess grease later. Add chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok and turn the heat to medium. Cooking from cold allows the fat to render slowly, ensuring crispy bacon that adds great flavor to your dish.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While the bacon is cooking, crack those eggs into a bowl. Season them with kosher salt and ground pepper, then give them a light whisk with a fork. This step ensures your eggs are fluffy and flavorful when they hit the pan!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once your bacon is crisp and drained, leave just enough fat in the skillet—about two tablespoons will do! Increase the heat to medium-high and add butter until melted. Toss in diced onion first; sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness. After they turn translucent, mix in minced garlic until fragrant—this step really builds flavor!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now it’s time for that cold cooked rice! Toss it into your skillet with onions and garlic so everything gets well combined. Spread it out evenly across the pan and let it fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This allows those crispy bits to form at the bottom—trust me; it’ll be worth it!

Step 5: Add Flavorful Elements

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture while loosening any stuck bits from the bottom of your skillet using a wooden spoon. Stir in frozen vegetables along with toasted sesame oil until everything is heated through—this gives an amazing depth of flavor without being overpowering.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, remove your skillet from heat and fold in crispy bacon pieces, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve right away with extra soy sauce if desired! There’s nothing quite like digging into this warm bowl of goodness first thing in the morning.

With these steps laid out for you, I hope you feel excited to make Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s not just another meal—it’s comfort on a plate that brings joy any time of day. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist for fried rice, leading to clumping. Day-old rice has dried out slightly, making it ideal for that perfect texture.

• Cook in batches: If you’re making a large quantity, consider cooking in batches. This ensures that each grain of rice gets the attention it deserves and prevents overcrowding in the skillet.

• Don’t skip the sesame oil: A splash of toasted sesame oil adds a wonderful nutty flavor to your fried rice. It enhances the overall taste and brings a lovely aroma that’s hard to resist.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen peas and carrots with any veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or broccoli. This not only adds color but also boosts nutritional value.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on personal preference, you may want to add more soy sauce or even a dash of chili sauce for heat. Tasting as you go ensures you achieve the perfect balance of flavors!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Presentation can make all the difference when serving Breakfast Fried Rice! Here are some delightful ways to serve this savory dish that will impress both family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Sliced chili: For those who enjoy spice, add some sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and enhances the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to the savory fried rice.
• Steamed edamame: Lightly salted steamed edamame makes for a nutritious side that complements the Asian flavors.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and richness, making it a classic pairing with fried rice.
• Cucumber salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and sesame oil offers a crisp texture that balances out the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Breakfast Fried Rice will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the fried rice cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove excess air from bags before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen rice overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave it; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common ones that may help you out.

Can I use brown rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be sure to cook it ahead of time and let it cool before frying.

What makes this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe special?

This Breakfast Fried Rice stands out due to its savory flavors and quick prep time. It brings together satisfying ingredients like eggs and bacon while being a lighter version of traditional fried rice.

How do I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or even tofu for an added twist!

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Yes! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely. Adding extra veggies or using plant-based protein will keep it delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting way to start your day filled with flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I believe this dish will become a cherished favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations!