Ham Fried Rice
Try this Ham Fried Rice recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Ham Fried Rice recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 1/2 cup frozen green peas
- 1 tablespoon sesame seed oil
- 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce
- 1 cup yellow onion small dice
- 3/4 cup diced ham (i used a small portion of a ham steak)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 4 cups cold cooked brown jasmine rice (white rice is also
- Carbohydrate 13.1211666674401 g
- Cholesterol 0.0799999998376927 mg
- Fat 10.4993500027451 g
- Fiber 2.90916667195773 g
- Protein 2.45576666685954 g
- Saturated Fat 1.69106666713934 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving (125g)
- Sodium 464.906666580644 mg
- Sugar 10.2119999954823 g
- Trans Fat 0.562263333475929 g
- Calories 153 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, sesame seed oil, and hoisin sauce. Set aside.
- Break up cold rice with a spoon, spatula, or your clean hands. Set rice aside.
- Heat a wok pan to hot over high heat. Carefully add the peanut oil and tilt wok so that the oil covers the interior sides and bottom of the wok.
- Add the onions, carrots and ham. Quickly stir fry for 2 minutes. Lower heat a little if necessary.
- Add the garlic and continue to stir fry for an additional minute.
- Add the frozen peas and stir to distribute evenly.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the vegetable and ham mixture. Stir fry ingredients just until eggs are set.
- Add the rice and continue to stir fry until rice is heated through.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the rice mixture. Stir fry until the sauce mixture is evenly distributed and rice is hot.
- Serve immediately. Some guests may want to add additional sauces or oils. Suggested: soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame seed oil. Additional hoisin sauce may not work well because it is sweet.
A Busy Mom's Go-To: Speedy Ham Fried Rice
Life as a mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping everyone fed, finding time for elaborate cooking often feels impossible. That's why I rely on quick, delicious meals like this Ham Fried Rice. It's surprisingly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of days, and my kids devour it! The best part? It’s incredibly versatile – I can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s already in my fridge, making it a perfect solution for using up leftover ham or vegetables.
This recipe isn't just about speed; it's about flavour too. The combination of savoury ham, sweet carrots, and subtly sweet hoisin sauce creates a delicious balance. The crunchy peas add a nice textural contrast, and the fragrant garlic and sesame oil round out the dish perfectly. It's the kind of meal that satisfies the whole family without requiring hours in the kitchen. I often find myself doubling the recipe, knowing there will be happy little faces (and a few happy adult ones, too!) at the dinner table. Plus, leftovers make a fantastic lunch the next day!
The key to great fried rice is using cold, day-old rice. It's crucial for preventing it from becoming mushy during cooking. I usually cook a larger batch of rice at the beginning of the week, specifically for this purpose. Don't worry if your rice isn't perfectly cold; simply spread it out on a plate to cool down quickly. Other than that, the process is incredibly straightforward. Everything comes together rapidly in a wok, which helps retain the moisture and creates that signature fried rice texture. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet or frying pan will work just fine.
I've adapted this recipe over time, experimenting with different vegetables and protein sources. Sometimes, I'll add shredded chicken instead of ham, or swap the carrots for bell peppers or broccoli. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked meats and vegetables, turning what might otherwise be thrown away into a delicious, satisfying meal. I've even been known to add a handful of leftover roasted vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this Ham Fried Rice offers a sense of comfort and familiarity. It reminds me of simpler times, perhaps a family vacation or a special occasion, when food brought everyone together. It's a dish that evokes warmth and happy memories, making it more than just a quick meal; it's a connection to something special. I hope you'll enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it with my family.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize the veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or snow peas.
- Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the ham and add extra vegetables or tofu.
- Add some protein: Shrimp, chicken, or beef would also be delicious additions.
- Adjust the sauce: Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect balance of sweet and savory.
This Ham Fried Rice is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious meals that bring families together. It's a staple in our home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. Give it a try, and I guarantee you'll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation!
