Pork Fried Rice Recipe: 5 Reasons It’s Your Go-To Comfort Food

Pork Fried Rice: The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Night

Pork fried rice is a beloved staple in Asian cuisine and a go-to weeknight meal for those craving robust flavors and satisfying textures. With a harmonious blend of savory pork, crisp vegetables, fluffy eggs, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s the ideal way to make use of leftover rice and create a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Pork Fried Rice Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with just one pan.
• Family-Friendly: Customizable for all tastes and preferences.
• Waste-Reducing: Perfect for using up leftover rice, pork, and veggies.
• Budget-Conscious: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Bold Flavor: Every bite is infused with savory seasonings and fresh aromatics.

Ingredients at a Glance

The beauty of pork fried rice is its flexibility. Here are the classic ingredients you’ll need for two servings, with tips for substitutions and add-ins:

• Butter: For sautéing and rich flavor. Substitute vegetable oil if preferred.
• Boneless pork loin chop: Cut into small pieces. Use leftover cooked pork, roast, or even chicken for variation.
• Green onion: Adds freshness and a mild bite.
• Carrot and broccoli: For color, nutrition, and crunch.
• Large egg: Scrambled for protein and authentic fried rice texture.
• Cold cooked rice: Essential for the right texture—freshly cooked rice will turn mushy.
• Frozen peas: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Soy sauce: The primary seasoning for umami depth.
• Garlic powder and ground ginger: For aromatic flavor.

Ingredient Table

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces.
   • Chop the green onion, carrot, and broccoli.
   • Beat the egg in a small bowl. Have all ingredients ready for quick assembly.
2. Cook the Pork and Vegetables:
   • Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
   • Add pork, green onion, carrot, and broccoli.
   • Cook, stirring frequently, until the pork is cooked through and vegetables are tender (about 7–10 minutes).
3. Remove Pork Mixture:
   • Transfer the cooked pork and vegetables to a bowl, set aside.
4. Scramble the Egg:
   • Return skillet to medium heat.
   • Pour in beaten egg and scramble until fully cooked and set.
5. Combine and Finish:
   • Add the pork mixture back to the skillet.
   • Add in cold rice, peas, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
   • Stir well, breaking up any clumps of rice. Cook until heated through (about 7–10 minutes).
6. Serve:
   • Remove from heat, serve hot, and enjoy your homemade pork fried rice!

Tips for Perfect Pork Fried Rice

• Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, leftover rice ensures the grains stay separate and don’t turn mushy when fried.
• High Heat is Key: Sauté ingredients over medium-high heat to develop a smoky, slightly crispy texture.
• Customize Your Add-Ins: Add bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or bean sprouts for extra flavor and crunch.
• Soy Sauce to Taste: Start with less and add more as needed—different brands vary in saltiness.
• Mise en Place: Have all ingredients prepped and ready so you can move quickly and avoid overcooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to adapt this recipe based on what’s in your fridge or pantry:

• Protein: Use cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of pork.
• Vegetables: Substitute or add more vegetables like corn, bell pepper, mushrooms, or snow peas.
• Sauces: Add a splash of hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, or toasted sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spice: Stir in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pork fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Steamed dumplings or spring rolls
• Egg drop soup or hot and sour soup
• Simple Asian cucumber salad
• Stir-fried bok choy or Chinese broccoli

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the rice seems dry. Microwave in short bursts, covering to prevent drying out.

Pork Fried Rice vs. Other Fried Rice Varieties

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of homemade pork fried rice:

• Calories: ~400–450 kcal
• Protein: 20–25g
• Fat: 10–15g
• Carbohydrates: 50–55g
• Sodium: 900–1100mg (varies with soy sauce used)

Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For a lighter version, use lean meats and low-sodium soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best rice for pork fried rice?

Day-old, cold jasmine or long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays separate and doesn’t get mushy when fried.

Can I make pork fried rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all your ingredients in advance and even fully assemble the dish. Fried rice stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being soggy?

Use day-old rice, avoid overcrowding the pan, and cook over medium-high heat to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture but works well in this dish for added fiber.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce, and check all other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.

Expert Tips for Restaurant-Quality Fried Rice

• Get the Pan Hot: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients for the signature fried rice texture.
• Work Quickly: Stir ingredients swiftly to avoid burning and to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If doubling the recipe, cook in batches to prevent steaming the rice.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Final Thoughts

Pork fried rice brings together the best of comforting, quick-cooking meals with bold flavors and irresistible textures. Whether you’re repurposing leftovers, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving takeout classics at home, this recipe delivers every time. With countless ways to customize and elevate it, you’ll return to this pork fried rice recipe again and again—your own delicious twist is just a skillet away.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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