Thai Fried Rice

Name: Thai Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 3 tbsp vegan butter or oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 3-4 mushrooms, finely diced; 1 small carrot, finely diced; 1 red or yellow bell pepper, finely diced; 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooked the day before); 3 tbsp tamarind juice; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 2 bird’s eye chilis, finely minced (adjust to taste); 1/4 pineapple (about 1/2 cup), diced; Optional toppings: 1/4 cup green onions, 1/4 cup roasted peanuts

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

February 13, 2025

Updated:

February 13, 2025

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Thai Fried Rice is one of those magical dishes that brings a little bit of joy to your day. Picture this: a colorful plate piled high with warm rice, savory vegetables, and a twist of sweetness from fresh pineapple, all blended together in perfect harmony. It’s not just about filling up; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking newbie, making Thai Fried Rice is a breeze. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can wave goodbye to boring dinners. Plus, it’s versatile—you can toss in whatever veggies you have lying around, making it a fantastic way to use up leftovers. So, grab your spatula, and let’s cook up a storm with this amazing dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings the spirit of Thai food right into your home!

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Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Thai Fried Rice lies in its balance of sweet and sour flavors, which captures the very essence of traditional Thai cuisine. When you take a bite, you’re greeted with a wonderful combination that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. Another great aspect of this recipe is the use of leftover rice. This technique improves the dish’s texture, as day-old rice absorbs the sauce fully. It enhances every bite, making the dish irresistible and practical for those busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Fried Rice

You’ll adore this recipe for its quick preparation time. With life often feeling like a whirlwind, whipping up this meal in just a short bit can be a lifesaver. Imagine coming home after a long day and creating a delicious, vibrant dish in less than twenty minutes! Plus, the addition of tropical pineapple and colorful veggies caters to a variety of taste preferences. It’s a surefire way to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

3 tbsp vegan butter or oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
3-4 mushrooms, finely diced
1 small carrot, finely diced
1 red or yellow bell pepper, finely diced
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooked the day before)
3 tbsp tamarind juice*
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 bird’s eye chilis, finely minced (adjust to taste)
1/4 pineapple (about 1/2 cup), diced
Optional toppings: 1/4 cup green onions, 1/4 cup roasted peanuts

Preparing the Aromatic Base

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

To kick things off, heat one tablespoon of vegan butter or oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté this flavorful duo for about 5 minutes. You want the mixture to be fragrant and the onions translucent; this sets the foundation for an incredible aroma throughout the cooking process.

Add Vegetables

Now that the onion and garlic are working their magic, it’s time to add those vibrant vegetables. Stir in the finely diced mushrooms, carrots, and bell pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll want the carrots to be tender but still slightly crunchy, adding that perfect bite to every spoonful.

Incorporating the Rice

Fry the Rice

Next up, it’s time to incorporate that beautiful rice. Add the remaining two tablespoons of vegan butter or oil along with the cooked rice to your skillet. Make sure to break up any clumps and sauté everything together for about 5 minutes. This way, the rice begins to take on that delightful crispy texture while absorbing all those irresistible flavors.

Adding Flavor

Mix Sauce Ingredients

While the rice is getting all crispy and flavorful, take a moment to mix your sauce. In a small bowl, combine the tamarind juice, maple syrup, soy sauce, and minced chili. Stir it well to ensure the ingredients meld together perfectly. This sauce is what will elevate your Thai Fried Rice from good to absolutely fabulous!

Pour and Cook

Pour that luscious sauce over the rice mixture in the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly. Keep cooking for another 5 minutes or so. As you stir, you’ll notice how the rice absorbs all the delicious sauce, becoming a beautifully flavored dish.

Completing the Dish

Add Pineapple and Serve

Now for the grand finale! Stir in the diced pineapple, bringing a tropical flair that adds a touch of sweetness. For an extra kick, feel free to sprinkle on some green onions and roasted peanuts. This not only adds flavor but also gives your dish a delightful crunch. Serve your Thai Fried Rice warm, straight from the skillet!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Thai Fried Rice with crispy Thai spring rolls or a refreshing cucumber salad to create a delightful meal.
For a more filling dinner, serve it alongside grilled tofu or chicken, creating an abundant and satisfying plate.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture and results, using day-old rice is key. It’s a simple trick that makes a huge difference!
Adjust the heat level to suit your taste by modifying the number of bird’s eye chilis. If you prefer it milder, just use one or leave them out entirely.

Variations

Feel free to substitute in some peas or corn if you want a different twist on your dish.
If you’re looking to enhance the protein content, consider adding cooked shrimp or chicken. This makes for a heartier meal that might appeal to more guests.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve finished enjoying your Thai Fried Rice, remember it keeps well in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve it again, gently reheat it over medium heat for a few minutes.

Pairing Ideas

To complete your meal, consider pairing your rice with a chilled Thai iced tea or a zesty mango salad. These delightful drinks and sides will complement the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While you can use fresh rice, using day-old rice yields the best texture for frying. It’s worth the wait!

2. How spicy can I make this Thai fried rice?
You can easily adjust the number of bird’s eye chilis to control the spice level. Make it as spicy or mild as you wish!

3. Can I add more protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to include shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a protein boost.

4. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check your other ingredients for gluten content.

5. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
Thai fried rice can keep in the fridge for up to two days. Be sure to reheat it gently before serving for the best experience.

With these simple yet flavorful steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering Thai Fried Rice that shines with a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. Enjoy trying out this recipe, turning your kitchen into a corner of Thailand!

More Easy Breakfast Recipes:

Easy Carrot Cake

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Thai Fried Rice

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Thai Fried Rice

Ingredients