Welcome to our detailed and engaging journey into the world of one of China's most beloved dishes. Today, we will be crafting a delectable Yangzhou Fried Rice recipe, a timeless classic that has warmed the hearts and filled the bellies of people around the globe. Fried rice is a staple in many households, but Yangzhou fried rice, in particular, stands out for its unique ingredients and preparation style.

Our aim is to provide you with an in-depth understanding of this recipe, all the way from its origins to the intricate steps involved in creating it. With a heavy focus on quality and authenticity, this article aims to transform your kitchen into a bustling Chinese eatery.

Ingredients

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the cooked ham into small cubes, peel and devein the shrimp, thaw the frozen peas, and finely chop the carrots and green onions. Have your soy sauce, oyster sauce, and minced garlic ready. Utilizing a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board makes this process efficient and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

Yangzhou fried rice is best prepared with day-old Jasmine rice for perfect texture. If you don't have any on hand, cook fresh rice using a reliable rice cooker and allow it to cool completely before use. This ensures that your rice grains stay separate and dont turn mushy during the frying process, crucial for a flawless Yangzhou Fried Rice dish.

Step 3: Stir-frying the Ingredients

In a large wok or skillet, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they are just cooked through. Remove the scrambled eggs from the wok and set them aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok, and toss in the minced garlic. Stir-fry the garlic until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn it.

Introduce the diced ham and shrimp to the wok and stir-fry until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the chopped carrots and thawed peas to the wok, stirring everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

Add the cooled Jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice with the meats and vegetables for about 2 minutes, ensuring even distribution. Add the cooked scrambled eggs back into the wok and mix through. Finally, stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, coating all the ingredients evenly.

Taste and season with salt and pepper as necessary. Garnish your Yangzhou Fried Rice with chopped green onions for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.

The History and Cultural Significance

Yangzhou Fried Rice, also known as Yangchow Fried Rice, originates from the city of Yangzhou in the Jiangsu province of China. This dish dates back to the Sui Dynasty (581618 AD) and is celebrated for its varied and colorful ingredients. Traditionally, it includes a mix of proteins like shrimp and ham, along with vegetables such as peas and carrots. It's a staple of Chinese cuisine both in China and around the world, renowned for its balanced flavors and delightful textures.

Useful Tips for a Perfect Yangzhou Fried Rice

Using Day-Old Rice

The most crucial aspect of making exceptional Yangzhou Fried Rice is using day-old rice. Freshly cooked, steaming hot rice contains too much moisture and can result in a mushy texture. Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which helps in achieving the ideal texture where each grain of rice is distinct and perfectly fried.

Proper Prep Work

Preparation is key in Chinese cooking, and having all your ingredients ready before you start stir-frying can greatly influence the final dish. Dicing, chopping, and measuring your ingredients in advance ensures a smooth cooking process. Tools such as a high-quality knife and a large cutting board can make this prep work much easier.

Choosing the Right Wok

A traditional carbon steel wok is ideal for achieving the authentic taste of Yangzhou Fried Rice. Its unique shape ensures even cooking and allows for high-heat stir-frying, which is essential for this dish. Ensure your wok or skillet is well-seasoned to prevent sticking and enhance the flavors.

Pairing Suggestions for Yangzhou Fried Rice

While Yangzhou Fried Rice is a meal in itself, serving it alongside other Chinese delicacies can elevate your dining experience. Consider pairing it with dishes like Corned Beef and Cabbage or Dutch Oven Cake for a well-rounded feast.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Cookware

After preparing a delicious Yangzhou Fried Rice, proper cleaning and maintenance of your cookware are essential. For your wok or skillet, consider using a quality cookware cleaner to remove any residues and maintain its condition. Additionally, if you've used a wooden cutting board, treating it with cutting board oil will prolong its life and keep it in top shape.