Fried rice is a universal comfort food that brings together the simplicity of rice with a medley of vegetables and proteins. What if we told you that we could make it even better with the addition of rich, umami-packed miso? That's right! In this miso fried rice recipe, we'll combine the timeless joy of fried rice with the depth and complexity of miso. Buckle up, as we dive deep into this flavorful journey.

What is Miso?

Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting soybeans with salt and koji (a type of fungus). It is a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, used in everything from classic miso soup to marinades and sauces. The flavor of miso ranges from sweet and mild to savory and intensely salty and umami, depending on its fermentation length and ingredients. For our miso fried rice recipe, well typically use red or white miso for its balanced and savory profile.

Ingredients You'll Need

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

For a perfect fried rice texture, using day-old rice is ideal. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and clump together. If you're in a pinch, try spreading freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and letting it cool in the fridge for at least an hour to dry out slightly. Cook your rice in a rice cooker for the best results, as it ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.

2. Prep the Ingredients

While the rice is cooling, prepare your vegetables and aromatics. Mince the garlic and dice the onion using your trusty knife. Chop your mixed vegetables and beat the eggs. Have everything ready on your cutting board for easy access.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil, then toss in the diced onions. Saut them until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and saut for an additional minute. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Scramble the Eggs

Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan, creating a clear space for the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan. Scramble them gently, letting them cook until they are mostly set but still a bit soft. Then, mix the eggs in with the vegetables.

5. Incorporate the Rice

Once your eggs and vegetables are cooked, add the cooled rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with a wooden spoon, ensuring each grain of rice is separated and coated with the sesame oil. Stir the rice thoroughly with the vegetables and eggs, allowing it to heat through.

6. Add Miso and Soy Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a tablespoon of water to thin it out, making it easier to blend into the rice. Pour this miso mixture and the soy sauce over the rice. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the miso and soy sauce, giving it a rich umami flavor.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, your miso fried rice is ready to serve! Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some sriracha or your favorite hot sauce on top.

Tips for Perfect Miso Fried Rice

• **Use Day-Old Rice:** This is crucial for getting the right texture. Day-old rice is drier, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• **High Heat:** Cooking on high heat helps achieve that desirable slight crispness on the rice.
• **Dont Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly.
• **Add Extra Protein:** Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish more substantial.
• **Experiment with Vegetables:** Use whatever you have on handbell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms all work well.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This miso fried rice recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, giving you the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it an easy meal to whip up any day of the week while the miso adds a rich depth that transforms the fried rice from a simple side dish to a show-stopping main course.

More than just a standalone meal, this dish pairs beautifully with Japanese-inspired sides like rustic bread or cabbage recipe. It's also a great way to use up whatever vegetables and proteins you have in your fridge, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Health Benefits of Miso

Not only is miso tasty, but it also comes with several health benefits. Miso is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins B, E, K, and folic acid. It contains probiotics, which are beneficial for digestive health. Additionally, miso is a good source of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and promote overall health. Including miso in your diet can contribute to maintaining a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Cleanup and Maintenance

After enjoying your delicious miso fried rice, it's time to clean up. Maintaining your cookware and kitchen tools can feel like a drag, but it's an essential step to keep them in good condition and ready for the next culinary adventure. Be sure to clean your Cookware Cleaner, and don't forget to treat your cutting board with some Cutting Board Oil.

If you enjoyed this miso fried rice recipe and want to try more delicious fried rice variations, check out this popular fried rice recipe from Once Upon a Chef.

We hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as we do! Happy cooking!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.