pork fried rice recipe
The Best pork fried rice recipe
What I appreciate most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can make it as simple or as loaded as you want—add extra protein, swap in different veggies, or even make it a little lighter by cutting back on the oil. It’s also a balanced meal with carbs, protein, and fiber, so it keeps everyone full and energized. Whether it’s a busy school night or a lazy weekend lunch, pork fried rice always hits the spot. And let’s be real, anything that makes dinner easier while still tasting this good is a recipe worth keeping around.
Classic Pork Fried Rice
A savory and satisfying one-pan dish featuring tender pork, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for using leftover rice and makes a delicious weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and cooled long-grain white rice (day-old works best)
- 12 oz (340g) pork shoulder or tenderloin, diced into small cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground white pepper (or black pepper)
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- Extra green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Sriracha or chili oil (for heat)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Prep the rice: Break up any clumps in the cooked rice with your hands or a fork. Set aside. -
2
Cook the pork: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced pork and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. -
3
Scramble the eggs: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set (about 1-2 minutes). Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside with the pork. -
4
Sauté the aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and white parts of the green onions. Cook for 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
5
Combine ingredients: Add the thawed peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the rice, breaking up any remaining clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through. -
6
Season the rice: Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, white pepper, and salt over the rice. Stir well to combine. -
7
Add the pork and eggs: Return the cooked pork and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly distributed and heated through. -
8
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the green parts of the green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha if desired. Serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Pork Fried Rice Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pork Fried Rice
1. Can I use leftover rice for pork fried rice?
Yes! In fact, leftover rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, making it easier to fry without turning mushy. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist, so if you must use it, spread it on a tray to cool and dry slightly before frying.
2. What kind of pork is best for pork fried rice?
Lean cuts like pork tenderloin or loin work well, but slightly fattier cuts like pork shoulder or belly add more flavor. Dice the pork into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly. For extra tenderness, marinate the pork in a little soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil before cooking.
3. How do I prevent my fried rice from turning out soggy?
The key is using cold, dry rice and cooking over high heat. Make sure your wok or pan is very hot before adding ingredients, and stir-fry in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Also, avoid adding too much sauce or wet ingredients like raw vegetables, which can steam the rice instead of frying it.
4. Can I make pork fried rice without soy sauce?
While soy sauce is a staple for flavor, you can substitute it with coconut aminos (for a gluten-free option), tamari, or even a mix of Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of salt. Keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly, so adjust seasoning to taste.
5. What vegetables work best in pork fried rice?
Classic choices include diced carrots, peas, bell peppers, and green onions. For texture, add them in stages—harder veggies like carrots first, then softer ones like peas or bean sprouts later. Frozen mixed vegetables also work well and save prep time. Avoid watery vegetables like cucumbers or tomatoes, as they can make the rice soggy.
