Basic Oriental Fried Rice – Stephen Yan Recipe
Are you in the mood for a savory and flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds to the exotic flavors of China? Look no further than this Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe from renowned chef Stephen Yan. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine and has been perfected through centuries of culinary tradition.
There’s something so satisfying about fried rice; the combination of textures and flavors leave you feeling fulfilled with every bite. This recipe is elevated with a touch of dark soy sauce and oyster sauce, but still remains simple enough for beginner chefs to execute perfectly.
Fried rice may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! With these simple instructions, you’ll be able to create an amazing dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Get ready to break out your wok and channel your inner chef as we delve into the delicious world of Chinese cuisine with this Stephen Yan recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring meal options? Do you love Chinese food but find it intimidating to cook? Look no further than this Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe from the legendary Stephen Yan.
There are so many reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe. For starters, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a hot wok, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
But what really sets this dish apart is the depth of flavor. The combination of dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and wine creates a rich and savory sauce that coats every grain of rice. Add in some minced chicken, green onions, and scrambled eggs, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
And let’s not forget about the versatility of fried rice. You can customize this dish to suit your tastes by adding in your favorite vegetables or protein. Broccoli, shrimp, and even XO sauce are all great additions to this recipe.
Not to mention, cooking your own Chinese food at home is a great way to save money and avoid unhealthy additives found in takeout options.
So if you’re looking for an easy and flavorful meal that will leave you feeling satisfied, give this Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe from Stephen Yan a try. Your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you.
Ingredient List
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients. Make a trip to the grocery store or your pantry and check off the following items from your shopping list:
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of cooked rice (preferably long grain rice)
- 2 tablespoons of Dark Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons of Oyster Sauce
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of Peanut Oil
- 2 large Eggs (beaten)
- A dash of Salt
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
I highly recommend using long-grain rice for this recipe, but if you don’t have it, short grain will also work. Dark soy sauce is preferable over light soy sauce as it adds sweetness and color to the dish. You can use any peanut oil brand or substitute with vegetable oil, as well. Use fresh eggs for better results. Do not hesitate to add a bit of salt to enhance the flavors. Finally, finely chop the green onions for sprinkling on top of the fried rice – this will add a fresh and aromatic taste to your recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Heat up the Wok Like a Pro
Now to create this flavorful Basic Oriental Fried Rice, we need to begin by heating up our wok or frying pan. This step is very important to ensure that our rice heats evenly and quickly. So, let’s grab that wok and turn up the heat high.
Firstly, add 3 tablespoons of peanut oil on the wok and heat it up over high heat until it starts swirling, then add 2 large beaten eggs with a dash of salt and scramble for around 20 seconds. When finished, scoop the eggs out of the wok and onto a plate.
Get that Rice Ready!
Next up, for creating Basic Oriental Fried Rice, you need 6 cups of cooked long-grain rice. Note: Don’t use freshly cooked rice – your fried rice will become too gooey. Instead, opt for rice that has been stored in the fridge overnight.
Now add another tablespoon of peanut oil into the hot wok with some chopped green onions. After stirring for around 10 seconds or so, go ahead and add your cold cooked rice into the mix.
Stir Fry your Rice
Stir-fry your rice with the heated peanut oil and chopped green onions for around 2-3 minutes. During this process, stir continuously to ensure that each grain of rice is well coated with oil and cooked thoroughly.
After stirring for an additional minute or so, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce (depending on how dark you like your fried rice) along with 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. These sauces not only give a vibrant color to your dish but also impart delicious flavors to your Basic Oriental Fried Rice .
Mix It Up!
Continue stir-frying until everything is evenly mixed together, shaking the contents of the wok every once in a while.
At this point, toss in an optional addition of minced meat(beef/pork/chicken). If you want a vegetarian option, broccoli will do just fine as well!
Lastly, Mix in those scrambled eggs from earlier and voila! Your Basic Oriental Fried Rice is ready to be served!
Keep Your Options Open
This recipe offers an opportunity to get creative with your cooking skills too! Consider adding your favorite Chinese vegetables for an extra burst of flavor in every bite or spicing things up with some XO Sauce!
Now that you know how to make Basic Oriental Fried Rice let your hunger take control as you dish up this incredible cuisine crafted straight out of Stephen Yan’s cookbook “Chinese Recipes: The Illustrated Step-By-Step Guide To Authentic Chinese Food Cooking”.
Substitutions and Variations
for Basic Oriental Fried Rice:
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to put your own spin on this classic, there are several substitutions and variations you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Add some veggies: You can toss in some diced carrots, bell peppers, or diced broccoli after frying the rice for some added texture and nutrition.
– Use brown rice: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to white rice, try using brown rice instead. It has a nuttier taste and is also a good source of fiber.
– Swap out the protein: While chicken is the most traditional choice for fried rice, you can easily use shrimp, beef, pork or tofu as well. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try using a combination of proteins!
– Use different sauces: Instead of dark soy sauce and oyster sauce, try using XO sauce or fish sauce for a unique twist on this classic dish.
– Make it spicy: If you like your food with a kick, add some chili flakes or diced jalapenos to the wok after frying the rice.
Remember that cooking is an art form – don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients! With these substitutions and variations, you can make Basic Oriental Fried Rice your own signature dish.
Serving and Pairing
Once you’re done cooking the Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe, you’ll want to serve it immediately while it’s warm and the flavors are at their best. This dish is perfect as a main course, but it also works well as a side dish, especially when paired with other Chinese cuisine foods, such as chicken fried rice, broccoli, yang chow fried rice, and lo mein. Martin Yan Can Cook appetizer recipes go hand-in-hand with this fried rice if you’re looking for an authentic Chinese meal experience that will have your taste buds soaring.
When it comes to pairing, this Basic Oriental Fried Rice can be enjoyed with a variety of cocktails, wines or beers. A light and crisp white wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the dish perfectly and balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce. If you prefer beer, try something light such as an ale or pilsner which can enhance the freshness of the ingredients used in the recipe. For those who enjoy some stronger drinks, XO sauce is an excellent accompaniment for this savory dish and its distinct taste complements the flavors of the dish flawlessly.
In summary, this Basic Oriental Fried Rice can be savored as a main course or as a side dish depending on your preferences. Pair it with any Chinese-based cuisine dishes would be an ideal choice that can lead you to appreciate its authentic flavors more profoundly. With proper pairing ideas on hand, you’re sure to have an extraordinary time trying out Stephen Yan’s easy-to-follow recipe in your own kitchen!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with some leftover Oriental Fried Rice, don’t worry about it going to waste. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container or a ziplock bag. However, there are some things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to storing fried rice.
First of all, make sure to refrigerate the rice within two hours of cooking it. This is essential to prevent bacterial growth and potential food poisoning. Also, it’s better not to leave the cooked rice at room temperature for longer than two hours as well. When you’re ready to consume your leftover fried rice, make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving.
If you want to reheat the rice right away, the best way is in a hot wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Heat some oil until hot and add the cold rice. Use chopsticks or a spatula to break up any clumps and stir-fry for three to five minutes until warmed through.
You can also reheat your fried rice in the microwave. To do this, transfer it into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel and place it in the microwave for one minute on high heat. Stir and heat for additional 30-second intervals until desired temperature is reached.
Another option is prepping ahead of time by freezing the uncooked cooked rice in small portions that you can easily reheat later on for meal prep or quick dinner options. Frozen cooked rice can last for up to six months in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container or freezer friendly bag. Simply thaw frozen cooked rice by placing it overnight in your fridge or use your microwave’s defrost setting.
In conclusion, knowing how to store and reheat your Basic Oriental Fried Rice will surely come in handy when you want a quick meal or have leftovers from a big dinner party. Proper storage and reheating are necessary steps to avoid spoilage and ensure that every bite maintains its delightful flavor profiles that makes this dish simply irresistible!
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking perfect Basic Oriental Fried Rice can be a challenge for many. As a professional chef, I am here to share with you some tips to achieve the perfect flavor, texture, and color in your fried rice dish.
Firstly, when cooking your eggs, beat them well and season them with a dash of salt. This adds flavor and also prevents the eggs from sticking to the pan. Using a non-stick pan will also make it easier to cook the eggs perfectly.
Next, make sure that your cooked rice is cold. This is an important step because hot rice tends to clump together when fried, resulting in a dish that is too heavy and sticky. Cold rice will ensure that each grain stays separate during frying.
When frying the rice, use high heat and make sure your wok or frying pan is hot before adding the oil. Once the oil is heated and swirling in the pan, add the rice and stir-fry constantly for two to three minutes until it is evenly coated with oil.
To add depth of flavor to your fried rice, consider using dark soy sauce and oyster sauce instead of regular soy sauce alone. These sauces will give your fried rice a rich color and savory umami taste that complements the other ingredients.
It’s also important to remember not to add too much salt since both dark soy sauce and oyster sauce have a salty flavor. Start with a small amount of salt at first and taste as you go.
Finally, don’t overcrowd your pan or wok when stir-frying. Overcrowding will result in uneven cooking and sticking of ingredients. It’s better to cook in batches if your pan isn’t big enough.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfect Basic Oriental Fried Rice every time!
FAQ
Before we get into the FAQ section, let me remind you that cooking is an art, and sometimes it takes time to perfect. Don’t worry if you have questions or concerns about this recipe – this FAQ section exists to clear up any confusion and ensure that your experience with this Basic Oriental Fried Rice by Stephen Yan recipe goes smoothly. So take a deep breath, grab your wok, and let’s dive in!
What gives Chinese fried rice it’s flavor?
When it comes to fried rice, using the right sauces can make all the difference. Three sauces that really elevate the dish are soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. However, it’s important to use them in moderation and taste the rice frequently to ensure the flavors don’t become overpowering. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the natural flavors of the rice, meat, and vegetables.
What is the difference between fried rice and oriental fried rice?
When frying rice in Japanese and Chinese cuisine, the choice of rice plays a key role. Short-grain rice, such as sushi rice, is preferred in Japanese fried rice, giving it a chewy consistency. On the other hand, long-grain rice like Basmati and Jasmine rice are commonly used in Chinese fried rice, resulting in a drier texture.
Why does Chinese fried rice taste different?
When it comes to cooking fried rice, achieving that perfect taste and texture similar to what you get in a Chinese restaurant is a challenge for many home cooks. However, culinary experts know the secret lies in utilizing a wok, high heat, and something called ‘wok hei.’ According to J. Kenji López-Alt, a contributor at Serious Eats, the ability to cook with high heat on a gas range using a wok is what separates the experts from amateurs and results in the delicious taste of Chinese-style fried rice.
What kind of soy sauce do Chinese restaurants use for fried rice?
Let me tell you about a flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries: Chinese fried rice. To make this dish truly shine, it’s important to use both premium light soy sauce and dark soy sauce, as they bring their own distinct flavors to the table. While some chefs may add a pinch of salt, it’s important not to go overboard with the sauces, as doing so can darken the color of the rice and detract from its visual appeal. Keep this in mind to create a winning dish every time.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Stephen Yan’s Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe is a must-try for all food lovers that appreciate the depth and complex flavors of Chinese cuisine. The recipe is easy to put together with ingredients readily available in your pantry or at your local grocery store. With simple substitutions and variations, you can create a different version of this rice every time you make it.
Whether you choose to serve it as a side dish or a standalone meal paired with your favorite proteins or vegetables, the flavor combinations are endless. From the dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and green onions to the high heat and wine infusion, this dish delivers on taste and aroma.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, follow the tips provided in this article for perfect results. By preparing the rice ahead of time or letting it cool down, you will get fluffy and flavorful grains that are ready for seasoning and stir-frying to perfection.
As a culinary assistant to chefs all over the world, I highly recommend trying out Stephen Yan’s Basic Oriental Fried Rice recipe today! Happy cooking!
Basic Oriental Fried Rice – Stephen Yan Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups cooked rice, cold
- 4 tablespoons peanut oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten with
- 1 dash salt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon wine
- 2 green onions, stalks chopped fine
Instructions
- Into a hot wok, add 1 tablespoon of peanut oil.
- When oil is hot, gently pour egg into wok and cook with medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
- Turn over to cook the other side of the egg.
- Cook for another 2 minutes and remove from wok to a cutting board and shred egg into slivers.
- Using medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of peanut oil into wok until smoke begins to rise.
- Put in cooked rice, salt, wine, and dark soy sauce, stirring until the rice is hot.
- Add egg slivers, and green onions.
- Stir for another minute and serve hot.
- NOTE: "There are many ways to do fried rice, depending on the kinds of ingredients employed. The specific name is called when a specific kind of ingredient, mostly meat is added to the basic fried rice. Fried rice can be made ahead of time and kept warm in oven. It freezes well in deep freeze too." – Stephen Yan.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Chloe
Chloe is passionate about creating unique dishes that draw on the flavors of her favorite cultures. She loves experimenting with new ingredients and pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. Her enthusiasm for cooking is infectious, and she is always eager to share her creations with friends and family.