If you have never tried this delightfully nostalgic dish before, the American Fried Rice Recipe is a must-try treat that combines the comforting familiarity of classic fried rice with a uniquely American twist. Packed with savory ham, juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and sweet raisins, this vibrant dish layers bold flavors and textures that turn every bite into an exciting adventure. It’s a simple, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests with something different yet easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this American Fried Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward and easily accessible ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: from the fragrant jasmine rice that forms the base, to the colorful veggies and savory proteins that make it a hearty, balanced meal.
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old): This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil that ensures even cooking and helps bring out the flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a delicious aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and subtle crunch.
- 1/4 cup diced ham: Offers smoky saltiness.
- 1/4 cup cooked diced chicken: Adds protein and keeps it hearty.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Provides a tangy, sweet kick essential to this recipe’s unique flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Balances sweet with a salty, umami undertone.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Enhances the rich flavors of the sauce.
- 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots: Injects color and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Gives creaminess and binds the ingredients together.
- 2 cooked sausages, sliced: A savory side addition that’s classic in American versions of fried rice.
- 2 slices cooked bacon: Adds crunch and a smoky, indulgent finish.
- 1/4 cup raisins: Introduces a subtle sweetness and chewy texture to contrast the savory elements.
- Sliced cucumbers and tomato wedges for garnish: Offer refreshing brightness when served.
How to Make American Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing them for 1 to 2 minutes until they release their heavenly aroma and start to soften. This simple base is what builds the flavor foundation you’ll love.
Step 2: Cook the Meats
Next, stir in the diced ham and cooked chicken. Let them cook for about 2 minutes to warm through and meld with the garlic and onions. The mingling of these proteins at this stage creates that savory richness that makes this fried rice such a comfort food classic.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the meat and veggies to one side of the skillet, then crack in the eggs. Scramble them gently until they’re just set—still moist but cooked through—and then mix them in with the meat and vegetables. This step adds a luscious texture contrast and a touch of protein-packed fluffiness.
Step 4: Combine with Rice and Sauces
Now, add the jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula to ensure every grain is separate and ready to soak up the sauce. Stir in the ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar, blending everything until the rice is evenly coated in that signature tangy and savory glossy finish.
Step 5: Final Touches
Sprinkle in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until they are heated through but still maintain a slight crunch for texture. Finally, stir in the raisins, then remove the skillet from the heat—your American Fried Rice is now ready to be plated with all the tasty extras!
How to Serve American Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your American Fried Rice with fresh, crisp cucumber slices and vibrant tomato wedges on the side. These garnishes add a refreshing brightness and a contrasting texture that make every mouthful feel balanced and satisfying.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own as a complete meal, but you can elevate the experience with classic side dishes such as a simple green salad, pickled vegetables for acidity, or even a bowl of clear chicken soup to complement the richness of the fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Mold the fried rice into a dome shape using a small bowl or dessert ring for an elegant presentation. Alternatively, serve it in individual lettuce cups for a fresh, interactive bite that’s both fun and appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover American Fried Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious—or even better—the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the fried rice in portioned airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain good quality for up to 1 month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet with a little oil over medium heat to revive the rice’s texture and avoid sogginess that microwave reheating sometimes causes. Stir frequently until heated through to enjoy it almost as fresh as when you made it.
FAQs
What makes this an American Fried Rice Recipe?
The distinctive feature is the use of ketchup mixed into the fried rice, along with the addition of American-style proteins like ham, sausage, and bacon, giving it a uniquely sweet and savory profile that differs from traditional Asian fried rice.
Can I substitute the meats for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! You can swap out the ham, chicken, sausages, and bacon for tofu or tempeh, and increase veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
Why is day-old rice recommended?
Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, which helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture where the grains stay separate rather than clumping together.
Can I adjust the ketchup and soy sauce to taste?
Yes, you can tailor the sweetness and saltiness by adding more or less ketchup and soy sauce. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust gradually based on your preference.
What is the best cooking oil for this dish?
Vegetable oil works best because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but you could also use canola or peanut oil for good results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyfully satisfying about making and sharing this American Fried Rice Recipe. It’s like getting the best of two food worlds in one colorful, flavorful plate that brings comfort and plenty of smiles. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinners with vibrant flavor and heartwarming nostalgia.
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American Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Thai
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
American Fried Rice is a beloved fusion dish combining the comforting flavors of classic fried rice with a flavorful blend of ketchup, soy sauce, and a mix of meats such as ham, chicken, sausages, and bacon. Enhanced with vegetables like peas and carrots and garnished with refreshing cucumber slices and tomato wedges, this dish offers a deliciously sweet and savory experience perfect for a hearty main course.
Ingredients
Rice and Vegetables
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
- Sliced cucumbers and tomato wedges for garnish
Proteins
- 1/4 cup diced ham
- 1/4 cup cooked diced chicken
- 2 cooked sausages, sliced
- 2 slices cooked bacon
- 2 eggs
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the meats: Stir in the diced ham and cooked chicken pieces and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to warm through and combine flavors.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the ingredients to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty space and scramble them until just set, then mix the eggs into the meats and vegetables evenly.
- Add the rice and seasonings: Add the day-old cooked jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Pour in the ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar, stirring well to coat the rice evenly and infuse flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables and finish cooking: Add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through. Stir in raisins for a slight sweetness, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve: Plate the fried rice and serve with sliced cooked sausages, bacon, cucumber slices, and tomato wedges on the side to complete this classic American-Thai fusion meal.
Notes
- Day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s drier and less sticky, ensuring perfectly fried grains.
- You can substitute meats with shrimp or keep the dish vegetarian by using tofu instead.
- Adjust the amount of ketchup and soy sauce to achieve your preferred balance of sweetness and saltiness.
- Use jasmine rice for authentic aroma and texture, but other long-grain rice varieties will also work.
