Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a delicious way to start your day, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Breakfast Fried Rice is such a comforting and satisfying dish that it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy mornings or even as a fun brunch with friends. Just picture it: savory rice tossed with eggs, crispy bacon, and vibrant veggies, all coming together in a colorful medley that makes breakfast feel special!

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows you to use up any leftover rice you might have. It’s always a joy when I can turn simple ingredients into something remarkable. So, whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, Breakfast Fried Rice will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this meal comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand; this recipe adapts beautifully!
• Leftover Magic: Perfect for repurposing last night’s rice into something new and exciting.
• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil gives each bite an umami kick that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Breakfast Fried Rice is half the fun! You’ll find that these items are wholesome and straightforward. No need for anything fancy here—just good food that fills you up!

For the Fried Rice

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best things about Breakfast Fried Rice is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try diced chicken or tofu for a different twist!
• Change up the veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or any other seasonal vegetables you love.
• Add some heat: If you like a little spice, add some chili flakes or sriracha sauce for an extra kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the bacon and substitute with extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian option.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels—you’ll need it later! Place chopped bacon in a cold skillet. As you heat it to medium, you’ll render out the fat and crisp up the bacon beautifully. This step adds depth of flavor to your fried rice.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks away, crack those eggs into a bowl seasoned with salt and pepper. Lightly beat them before adding them to the skillet once you’ve drained most of the bacon fat. The goal here is fluffy scrambled eggs that complement your rice perfectly.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once you’ve set aside your eggs, raise the heat and melt some butter in the same skillet. Sautéing onions until they’re translucent brings out their sweetness while adding aromatic garlic just before combining with the rice ensures an irresistible fragrance fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Stir in Cold Rice

Now it’s time to introduce your cold cooked rice into the skillet! Toss it around with those fragrant onions and garlic until well combined. By letting it fry undisturbed for several minutes, you’re building incredible texture—don’t rush this part!

Step 5: Add Soy Sauce and Vegetables

Pour soy sauce over your sizzling rice concoction. This step not only enhances flavor but helps bind everything together nicely. Add frozen vegetables next; they’ll thaw quickly while absorbing all those lovely flavors.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, remove your skillet from heat and stir in those crispy bacon pieces, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. A little more soy sauce can be added if desired—serve hot! Every bite of this Breakfast Fried Rice will remind you why it’s such a cherished dish in my home!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Creating a delicious Breakfast Fried Rice can be incredibly satisfying, and a few expert tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Use day-old rice: This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. The grains firm up in the fridge, making them perfect for frying up nice and crispy.

• Cook on high heat: High heat helps to achieve that signature fried rice texture. It allows the ingredients to cook quickly while getting those lovely browned bits that add flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you have too many ingredients at once, they’ll steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if you need to ensure everything gets that perfect sear.

• Customize with your favorite veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even zucchini can bring a fresh twist to your fried rice!

• Add spices for extra flavor: A sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of ginger can elevate your fried rice. Experiment with flavors that excite your palate!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving Breakfast Fried Rice is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to create a delightful breakfast experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh touch and brightens up the dish.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado provides richness and balances the savory flavors perfectly.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle adds a nice crunch and enhances the Asian-inspired theme.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side that brings sweetness and balances the savory notes of the fried rice. Choose seasonal fruits for maximum flavor!
• Miso soup: This warm soup complements Asian flavors beautifully, providing warmth and depth alongside your meal.
• Cucumber salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the rich fried rice.
• Tofu scramble: For an additional protein source, serve this plant-based scramble alongside your fried rice. It’s fluffy and flavorful, making it a hearty addition.

Now you’re all set to enjoy a fantastic Breakfast Fried Rice! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this dish will surely please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to cool the fried rice completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy serving sizes.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary.
• You can also microwave it: place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Breakfast Fried Rice!

Can I use brown rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative that adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before using it in this recipe.

How do I keep my Breakfast Fried Rice from getting mushy?

To prevent mushiness, use cold, day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky; letting it cool down will help separate the grains.

What can I add to my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to customize your breakfast fried rice with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even tofu for extra protein!

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use plant-based alternatives or skip it altogether. You can also add more veggies or use scrambled tofu as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this savory Breakfast Fried Rice as much as I do! It’s incredibly versatile and satisfying, making it a fantastic addition to your morning routine. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for a quick breakfast option, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!