Welcome to one of the most sensational ground pork fried rice recipes you'll ever encounter. This dish is a harmonious blend of savory ground pork, aromatic vegetables, and satisfying rice. It is sure to become a household favorite. With an easy preparation process and even easier cleanup, you'll wonder why you haven't made this sooner.
Why You'll Love This Ground Pork Fried Rice Recipe
It's no surprise that fried rice is a staple in many households around the world. The versatility and flavor of fried rice make it a go-to option for any meal of the day. However, this specific recipe stands out because the ground pork provides a richer, heartier taste compared to traditional chicken or shrimp fried rice. Not only is it delicious, but it is also incredibly simple to make, requiring ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb of ground pork
- 3 cups of cold, cooked rice (prepared using a rice cooker)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup of peas and carrots (frozen or fresh)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
Preparation
Before you start cooking, it's essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. This will ensure that the cooking process goes smoothly and quickly. Start with preparing your vegetables. You can use a knife and cutting board to dice the onions and mince the garlic. Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled. Using cold rice is crucial for achieving the perfect fried rice texture.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Pork
Set a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a bit of sesame oil to the pan and let it heat up. Once hot, add the ground pork. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it's no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season the pork with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Step 2: Saut the Aromatics
Next, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet with the cooked pork. Saut them together for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. The aroma of these ingredients cooking together is simply divine.
Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables
Add the peas and carrots (whether frozen or fresh) to the skillet. Stir them into the pork mixture and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but still retain a bit of their crunch.
Step 4: Push Ingredients to the Side
Once your vegetables are cooked, push the entire mixture of pork and veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Ensure they are broken up into small pieces. This allows for a thorough mix with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 5: Add the Rice and Sauces
At this stage, add your cold rice to the skillet. It's best to use rice that is a day old and has been refrigerated as this helps to prevent it from becoming mushy when fried. Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce over the rice and mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated with sauce. Make sure to fold the pork, vegetables, and scrambled eggs thoroughly into the rice.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finish off by adding a final touch of sesame oil to the fried rice. This adds a beautiful nuttiness and depth of flavor. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped green onions for that fresh pop of color and slight zesty bite.
Serving Suggestions
Ground pork fried rice is a complete meal all on its own, but you can also serve it alongside some complementary dishes to create a well-rounded feast. Consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad, some steamed dumplings, or a bowl of hot and sour soup. If youre entertaining, serving it family-style in a large bowl can make for a more communal and enjoyable experience.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Pork Fried Rice
Use Chilled Rice
Using cold, day-old rice is crucial as it has a firmer texture compared to freshly cooked rice. Fresh rice can become soggy when fried due to the excess moisture. If you don't have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and place it in your fridge for an hour to dry it out and cool it down.
Opt for High Heat
Cooking fried rice on high heat ensures that the ingredients cook quickly and evenly, helping to achieve that slightly crispy texture on the rice grains. However, be careful not to burn any ingredients, constantly stirring and keeping an eye on the heat level is key.
Customize Your Veggies
Feel free to add or substitute the vegetables in this recipe to match your personal preference or whatever you have available. Bell peppers, snap peas, and bok choy are great additions. The more colorful the vegetables, the more visually appealing and nutritious your dish will be.
Don't Skimp on the Sauces
The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce provides a savory and slightly sweet flavor that defines this dish. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Make sure to taste as you go, ensuring the seasoning is just right.
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Cleaning Up
No one enjoys cleanup, but with a few tips, you can make it quick and painless. Use a trusted Cookware Cleaner for your skillet or wok to remove any stuck-on food. Don't forget to clean your cutting board with some specialized oil to keep it in good condition.
Conclusion
This sizzling ground pork fried rice recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create an astonishingly delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, it promises a blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and impressed. Feel free to customize the recipe and make it your own. Happy cooking!
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