Why You’ll Love this Pork Fried Rice Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Pork Fried Rice recipe for its incredible flavor and versatility.
It’s a dish I can whip up quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests. The combination of savory pork sausage, tender veggies, and fluffy rice creates a mouthwatering experience that satisfies every time.
Plus, I can easily customize it by adding any leftover ingredients I’ve on hand. Whether I’m in the mood for something spicy or mild, this recipe adapts perfectly to my taste.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Pork Fried Rice
When it comes to whipping up a delicious Pork Fried Rice, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This dish isn’t only packed with flavor but also allows for a bit of creativity in the kitchen.
If you’re like me and often find yourself with a fridge full of leftovers, you’ll appreciate how easy it’s to throw in whatever veggies you have lying around. So, let’s explore what you’ll need for this delightful meal.
Ingredients for Pork Fried Rice:
- 6 eggs, beaten
- 15 cups cold white rice
- 2 lbs Chinese flavored pork sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 (16 ounce) packages fresh bean sprouts
- 16 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms
- 4 (3 ounce) packages oriental-flavor instant ramen noodles (optional)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- Vegetable oil
Now, here’s a little tip: the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Don’t have bean sprouts? No problem. Swap them out for whatever veggies you have, like peas, carrots, or even some bell peppers.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some leftover protein—chicken, shrimp, or tofu all work beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Also, if you really want to make this dish your own, experiment with the soy sauce. Do you like it a bit saltier? Go ahead, drizzle on some extra.
Cooking should be fun and personal, right? So grab those ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Pork Fried Rice
Next, we’re going to tackle that 15 cups of cold white rice. Yes, I said fifteen. It sounds like a lot, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Heat up your pan again with some more vegetable oil, and start frying the rice in batches. Here’s the trick: keep stirring it constantly. This isn’t the time to walk away and scroll through your phone. You want to make sure each grain is heated through and gets a nice touch of color from that 1/2 cup of soy sauce.
Add the soy sauce a little at a time, adjusting it to your taste. I like to think of it as giving the rice a gentle tan—nothing too drastic, just a nice glow. After you’ve finished cooking all the rice, set it aside.
Now, onto the star of the show: 2 lbs of Chinese flavored pork sausage****. You can either fry these up in a separate pan or bake them in the oven until they’re sizzling and slightly crispy.
Slice them into small chunks once they’re done—we’re going for bite-sized pieces here, not sausage links! While the sausage is getting all cozy in the heat, chop up a medium onion and toss it into the pan.
Sauté that along with 2 (16 ounce) packages of fresh bean sprouts** and 16 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms** until they’re soft. And hey, if you have any other veggies lying around, don’t hesitate to toss them in too!
Once everything is cooked, mix it all together in one big happy pan. You’ll end up with a vibrant, mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking and don’t forget to taste along the way—this is your creation, after all!
Pork Fried Rice Substitutions & Variations
While traditional pork fried rice is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations I love to explore.
For a lighter option, I sometimes swap the pork sausage for diced chicken or shrimp. If I’m looking to make it vegetarian, I replace the meat with tofu and add more veggies like bell peppers or broccoli.
I also enjoy experimenting with different sauces; teriyaki or hoisin can add a unique twist. Occasionally, I’ll toss in some pineapple for a sweet touch.
Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite ingredients—it’s a great way to personalize this dish!
What to Serve with Pork Fried Rice
To elevate your meal, consider serving pork fried rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.
I love pairing it with sautéed bok choy or broccoli, as they add a fresh crunch. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a side of egg rolls or dumplings can be a fantastic complement.
For a revitalizing drink, I often enjoy iced green tea or a light Asian beer.
These sides not only enhance the flavor but also create a balanced plate, making your pork fried rice experience even more enjoyable.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Additional Tips & Notes
When making pork fried rice, it’s crucial to use day-old rice if you can, as it tends to be less sticky and produces better texture in the final dish.
I also recommend prepping all your ingredients beforehand; it makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped chili peppers or a splash of sriracha.
For extra flavor, don’t skip the soy sauce—add it gradually to achieve the right balance.
Finally, feel free to experiment with vegetables; bell peppers or peas can add a nice crunch.
Enjoy your cooking!