The Ultimate Panda Express Rice Recipe: Bring the Flavor Home!
Written By Avi Green
If you've ever experienced the delicious umami and comforting flavors of **Panda Express** rice, you know it's a crowd favorite that's hard to resist. This blog post is your complete guide to recreating the Panda Express rice recipe right in your own kitchen. Imagine serving your family and friends the same aromatic, savory rice that everyone loves. This detailed, step-by-step recipe will ensure your rice tastes just like the restaurant favorite, if not better!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups **white rice** (Jasmine or long grain)
- 1 cup **frozen peas and carrots**
- 2 **eggs**
- 2 tablespoons **soy sauce**
- 1 tablespoon **sesame oil**
- 3 tablespoons **vegetable oil**
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves **garlic** (minced)
- 1 small **onion** (chopped)
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Essential Cookware
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
Begin by rinsing the 2 cups of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Next, use a rice cooker or a saucepan to cook the rice. If using a **rice cooker**, follow the manufacturers instructions. For stove-top cooking, add the rice to a saucepan with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the water is fully absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool.
2. Cook the Veggies
While the rice is cooling, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauting them until they turn golden brown and fragrant. This process infuses the oil with the flavors of garlic and onion, a key component of the **Panda Express rice recipe**. Next, add the frozen peas and carrots to the pan, stirring frequently. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
3. Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan or a separate smaller pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Break them into smaller pieces using your spatula and mix them with the vegetables. The combination of eggs and veggies is another signature element that makes **Panda Express fried rice** so special.
4. Combine All Ingredients
Once the eggs are cooked and mixed with the vegetables, its time to add the cooled rice into the pan. Pour the cooked rice over the scrambled eggs and veggies, then add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently fold all the ingredients together ensuring every grain of rice is coated with the seasoning. Keep stirring and mixing for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Final Touches
Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring you dont overdo it, as the soy sauce already adds a salty punch. For an added burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped green onions on top or even some toasted sesame seeds. This final step brings color, texture, and even more complexity to your **Panda Express rice recipe**.
Related: Crusty Bread, Corned Beef
Serving Suggestions
Your homemade **Panda Express fried rice** is not complete without some delicious sides. Pair this delightful rice with favorite entrees like orange chicken, beef and broccoli, or tofu stir fry for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light yet satisfying option.
Cookware Cleaning Tips
Why You Need the Right Tools
Investing in the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. A quality knife and sturdy cutting board ensure your vegetables are properly prepared, while a **rice cooker** simplifies the rice-cooking process, guaranteeing perfect results every time. Dont forget the importance of proper cookware maintenance to keep your tools in the best condition for future recipes.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe captures the essence of the original **Panda Express rice recipe** by utilizing key ingredients and techniques that replicate the restaurant-style dish. From the proper rinsing of the rice to the use of sesame oil and soy sauce, every step is designed to deliver that familiar and beloved taste. The balance of protein from the eggs, sweetness from the peas and carrots, and the depth of flavor from the garlic and onions make this dish a true winner.
Learn more about garlic rice dishes here
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