Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a breakfast that is both comforting and satisfying, let me introduce you to my beloved Breakfast Fried Rice. This dish is not just a way to use up leftover rice; it’s a deliciously savory start to your day that makes you feel like you’ve indulged without the guilt. With its warm, smoky flavors and the perfect hint of soy sauce, this recipe quickly became a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch with loved ones, Breakfast Fried Rice brings everyone together at the table.

I love how versatile this dish can be! You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those mornings when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still keeping things fun and tasty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have a hearty breakfast ready that everyone will love.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mix of flavors and textures—it’s hard not to smile while eating it!
• Customizable: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand—this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious.
• Great for leftovers: Perfect for using up cold cooked rice and any odds and ends from your fridge.
• Satisfying flavors: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that each one plays an important role in creating the rich flavors of this Breakfast Fried Rice. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Rice

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

The beauty of Breakfast Fried Rice lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add different veggies: Throw in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini based on what you have available.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick!
• Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheese right before serving for extra creaminess.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels. Add your chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok. Heating it slowly allows the fat to render out beautifully. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until crispy—about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to your prepared plate to drain.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks, crack those eggs into a bowl. Season them with salt and pepper before lightly beating them with a fork. This step ensures that your eggs are well-seasoned and fluffy when they hit the pan!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

After draining most of the bacon fat (leave about two tablespoons), add your eggs back into the skillet. Swirl them around until they’re set at the edges and scramble them until they reach your desired consistency—about 5 minutes should do it! Remove them from the pan.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Raise the heat to medium-high and add butter until melted. Toss in diced onions and sauté until they become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Then add minced garlic for an aromatic boost.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Next, introduce your cold cooked rice into the skillet with onions and garlic. Toss everything together well before smoothing it into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. Let it fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes so those delicious crispy bits develop!

Step 6: Finish It Off!

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture and stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors. Toss in frozen peas, carrots, corn, and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir frequently until everything is heated through—the colors will brighten up beautifully!

Step 7: Serve Up Your Dish

Finally, take off the heat and fold in your crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately while hot with extra soy sauce on hand for drizzling if desired!

Enjoy this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice as much as I do—it’s sure to bring smiles around your breakfast table!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Cooking breakfast fried rice can be a breeze if you keep a few key tips in mind!

• Use day-old rice: Leftover, cold rice works best because it’s less sticky. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together, making it harder to achieve that perfect fried texture.

• Don’t rush the bacon: Taking your time to cook the bacon until crisp ensures it releases all its flavorful fat, which you’ll use to sauté the vegetables. This adds an extra layer of savory goodness to your dish.

• Adjust the heat: Starting on medium heat and transitioning to medium-high prevents burning while allowing flavors to meld beautifully. It also helps in achieving that delightful crispy texture on the rice.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add or substitute any mixed vegetables you enjoy. Bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms are great options that not only enhance flavor but also add color and nutrients!

• Serve immediately: Fried rice is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan while it’s hot and crispy. If left too long, it can lose its ideal texture.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Presenting breakfast fried rice is all about highlighting its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory notes.
• Sriracha or chili sauce: A drizzle of sriracha gives a spicy kick that balances well with the richness of the dish.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty twist.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a sweet contrast to the savory fried rice, making for a balanced meal.
• Green salad: A simple green salad dressed with light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness, enhancing overall enjoyment.
• Steamed edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are easy to prepare and offer a delightful bite alongside your fried rice.
• Miso soup: This warm, umami-rich soup pairs wonderfully with breakfast fried rice, providing comfort and depth to your morning spread.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to make Breakfast Fried Rice not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your mornings stress-free and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the fried rice cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir-fry until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Breakfast Fried Rice:

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Absolutely! You can use turkey bacon or even tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store Breakfast Fried Rice?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—just remember to cool it completely before freezing!

What are some variations of Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to customize your Breakfast Fried Rice with different vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. You can also add protein like chicken or tofu!

Is Breakfast Fried Rice healthy?

This dish can be quite healthy! It’s packed with veggies and can be made lighter by using less oil or opting for low-sodium soy sauce.

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Yes! In fact, leftover cold rice works best because it’s drier and won’t become mushy when frying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will kickstart your day with a smile. Whether it’s just for yourself or shared with loved ones, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!

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