Delicious Pork Fried Rice: Quick and Easy Recipe

When hunger strikes, nothing beats a homemade pork fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout spot. This 15-minute recipe turns leftovers into a savory dish with ground pork, veggies, and savory spices. Enjoy delicious flavors in under a quarter of the time of ordering out.

Key Takeaways

Ready in 15 minutes: 5-minute prep + 10-minute cook time.
Serves 2-4 with leftovers stored up to 3 days.
Uses day-old rice and frozen veggies for easy prep.
High protein (43.5g) and fiber (9.6g) per serving.
Perfect for weeknnight meals with bold soy sauce and sesame oil flavors.

The Art of Chinese Fried Rice: A Takeout Favorite at Home

Chinese food classics like fried rice prove that simplicity meets flavor in Asian cuisine. This dish, a staple in takeout orders, originates from resourceful kitchens turning leftovers into masterpieces.

Brief History of Fried Rice in Asian Cuisine

Rooted in Chinese kitchens, fried rice began as a way to repurpose day-old rice, becoming a symbol of ingenuity in Asian cuisine. Over centuries, it evolved into regional specialties—Guangdong’s Yangzhou dishes, Thai jasmine rice variations, and American-Chinese adaptations like our pork version. As takeout menus globalized, fried rice became a comfort food transcending borders.

“Waste not, want not”—the philosophy behind fried rice’s creation.

Why Pork Makes the Perfect Protein Addition

Ground pork shines here: its fat content enriches the dish without lengthy prep. Unlike cutlets, it cooks quickly, mimicking Chinese food takeout texture. Three large eggs add creaminess, while three minced garlic cloves and ginger pieces deepen savory notes.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

Build layers with this Asian cuisine trio: soy sauce (2 tbsp), sesame oil (1 tsp), and white pepper (1/2 tsp). A table summarizes key components:

Ingredient	Role
Leftover rice	Dry texture holds shape
Frozen peas	Quick color and crunch
Sesame oil	Finishing nuttiness

Serve 6-8 portions in 40 minutes—half the time of takeout waits. Customize with scallions or chili flakes, but stick to 1 tbsp butter for that iconic restaurant glaze. Now you’re ready to recreate a Chinese food icon at home!

Perfect Homemade Pork Fried Rice Recipe

Master the easy art of homemade stir-fry with this family-friendly dish. This recipe balances tradition and simplicity, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

3 large eggs
½ lb ground pork (look for brands like Niman Ranch)
4 cups cooked jasmine rice (Thai Kitchen brand recommended)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 garlic cloves (minced)
3 tbsp soy sauce (Kikkoman preferred)
1 tsp sesame oil (add last for aroma)

Steps

Scramble eggs in 1 tbsp oil until soft. Set aside.
Heat remaining oil in a wok. Cook pork until browned, breaking into small pieces.
Add garlic and peas/carrots. Stir-fry 1-2 minutes until crisp-tender.
Add rice and soy sauce. Cook 5 minutes, breaking clumps with a fork.
Return eggs to pan. Toss with sesame oil off heat.

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	377 kcal
Protein	20.5g
Carbs	45.4g
Fat	14.2g
Servings	4

Pro tip: Use day-old rice for best texture. Adjust soy sauce to taste—start with 2 tbsp first. Serve with a sprinkle of green onions for extra flair.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Chinese Stir-Fry Creation

Your homemade pork fried rice is sure to become a family favorite, blending quick prep with bold flavors that rival any takeout order. Serve it as a hearty main dish or pair with egg rolls and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a complete meal. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to three days—perfect for meal prep or a fast weeknight dinner.

Customize your pork fried rice by swapping pork for shrimp, tofu, or chicken. Add fresh veggies like broccoli or bell peppers to switch things up. If using fresh rice, spread it on a sheet pan to cool before cooking, ensuring the right texture. Repurpose leftovers into a quick soup with broth or stuff them into bell peppers for a new twist.

This recipe’s flexibility shines through its adaptable ingredients. Whether using day-old rice or experimenting with proteins, every batch stays restaurant-quality with high heat and proper tossing. Remember, high-smoke-point oils like canola or peanut ensure even cooking without burning. A sprinkle of green onions lifts the final dish, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Mastering pork fried rice opens the door to exploring more Chinese classics. Its simple steps and tasty results prove homemade dishes can match takeout favorites. With a wok in hand and these tips, you’ll keep this recipe a kitchen staple—ready to satisfy cravings and impress family and friends alike.

FAQ

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice for this pork fried rice recipe?

It’s best to use day-old rice because it has less moisture, which helps achieve a better texture. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried.

What can I substitute for ground pork in this recipe?

You can substitute ground chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each will give the dish a different flavor while still being delicious.

How can I make this pork fried rice spicier?

To add some heat, you can include chopped chili peppers, chili paste, or a splash of sriracha when stir-frying the ingredients.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe without a wok?

Yes, you can use a large non-stick pan instead. Just make sure it has enough surface area for good stir-frying.

What if I don’t have frozen vegetables on hand?

You can use fresh vegetables instead. Just make sure to chop them small and adjust the cooking time as needed for freshness.

How long can I store leftovers of pork fried rice?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Can I incorporate other seasonings into my pork fried rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to add soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil to enhance the flavors further, adjusting to your taste preferences.

What’s the best way to ensure the eggs remain fluffy in the stir-fry?

Cook the eggs on medium heat and remove them from the pan when they’re just soft-scrambled. This prevents overcooking and keeps them fluffy.

How can I prevent the rice from sticking together while cooking?

Make sure to break up any clumps of rice before adding it to the pan and stir-fry quickly over high heat to keep it from sticking.

What are some ways to customize this pork fried rice recipe?

You can add different proteins, switch up the vegetables based on the season, or even include unique ingredients like Chinese sausage or kimchi for varied flavors.