Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare, you’ve found it with this Breakfast Fried Rice! This dish is a wonderful way to transform leftover rice into a hearty meal that feels indulgent without the heaviness. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the savory mix of eggs and crispy bacon. Perfect for busy mornings or laid-back weekends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Imagine serving this delightful dish at a leisurely brunch or whipping it up on a hectic weekday morning. The beauty of Breakfast Fried Rice lies in its versatility and ease. Whether you have guests over or just need a comforting start to your day, this recipe is always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious combination of flavors—it’s an easy way to please everyone at the table!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this fried rice with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
• Leftover Friendly: Use up your cold, cooked rice and leftover veggies for minimal waste and maximum flavor.
• Deliciously Satisfying: With its smoky bacon and fluffy eggs, every bite is a burst of savory goodness that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Breakfast Fried Rice uses simple, wholesome components that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that deliciously smoky flavor and satisfying texture we all crave.

For the Rice Dish

• 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

This Breakfast Fried Rice is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have available or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or tofu instead of regular bacon for a lighter twist.
• Add different veggies: Try bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add some sriracha or chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the bacon entirely and load up on extra vegetables for a plant-based version.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels—this will help absorb excess grease later. In a cold 12” skillet or wok, add the chopped bacon. Heating it slowly allows the fat to render out beautifully. Stir occasionally until the bacon becomes nice and crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer it to the prepared plate to drain while keeping that flavorful fat in the pan.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks, crack those eggs into a bowl. Sprinkle them with kosher salt and ground pepper before giving them a gentle whisk with a fork. Once your bacon is perfectly crispy and removed from the skillet, pour those eggs into the remaining fat. Swirl them around to coat the bottom of the pan—a technique that helps create soft, fluffy scrambled eggs. Cook until they’re scrambled just how you like them; then set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Now it’s time to crank up the heat! Increase it to medium-high and toss in your butter until it melts into that lovely bacon fat mixture. Add your diced onion—sautéing until translucent brings out their natural sweetness—and then garlic for an extra fragrant punch. Just about one minute should do for the garlic; trust me, you’ll want your kitchen smelling amazing!

Step 4: Add Your Cold Rice

Next up is our cold cooked rice! Toss it in with those fragrant onions and garlic until everything is well combined. Spread it out evenly across the skillet so it can fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This step allows those delicious flavors to meld together while giving your rice some nice texture.

Step 5: Season & Incorporate Vegetables

Drizzle soy sauce over your beautiful rice mix; this adds that signature umami flavor we’re after! Use a wooden spoon to loosen any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet as you stir in frozen peas, carrots, and sesame oil. Keep stirring until everything is heated through—this ensures every bite has that added veggie goodness!

Step 6: Finish It Off

Finally, remove your skillet from heat and fold in both that crispy bacon and scrambled eggs along with sliced green onions for fresh flavor. Serve immediately while it’s warm, perhaps with an additional splash of soy sauce according to taste!

And there you have it—your very own Breakfast Fried Rice! Enjoy every mouthful of this cozy dish that’s bound to brighten even the busiest mornings!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish and impress your family or guests.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent the grains from sticking together and clumping. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, making it difficult to achieve that desired fried texture.

• Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients. A well-preheated pan will help achieve a nice sear on the rice and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in or add any vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach can be great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of frying, which affects texture.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone has different taste preferences! Don’t hesitate to tweak the soy sauce or sesame oil according to your palate. A splash of lime juice can also brighten up the flavors beautifully!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some great ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness that balances out the richness of the fried rice.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch and enhance the Asian flavor profile of the dish.
• Sliced Red Chili: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, thinly sliced red chili can add a spicy kick!

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits is a light and healthy side that complements the savory flavors of fried rice perfectly.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting contrast and adds an authentic touch that pairs well with Asian-inspired breakfasts.
• Crispy Tofu: Serve crispy tofu on the side for an extra protein boost. It brings a delightful crunch and texture that complements the soft rice.
• Green Salad with Sesame Dressing: A light green salad tossed in sesame dressing adds brightness and balances out the richness of the fried rice.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only master Breakfast Fried Rice but also create a meal that’s visually appealing and satisfying! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your fried rice to keep it tasting fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover fried rice into an airtight container.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the fried rice into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen fried rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Breakfast Fried Rice!

Can I use brown rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled before frying.

What can I substitute for bacon in Breakfast Fried Rice?

You can use turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor without pork. They both work wonderfully!

How do I make vegan Breakfast Fried Rice?

Simply omit the eggs and bacon, and replace them with tofu scramble or chickpeas for added protein. You can also add more vegetables!

Is Breakfast Fried Rice good for meal prep?

Yes! Breakfast Fried Rice keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach, and adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe as delightful as I do! Breakfast Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s a cozy way to start your day with a smile. Whether you’re preparing it on a busy morning or enjoying leftovers later in the week, it’s bound to become a favorite. Enjoy making this dish and feel free to share your variations—I’d love to hear how you make it your own!