Why Youโll Love This Recipe
Bacon Fried Rice is a quick, savory dish packed with rich, smoky flavors and a satisfying combination of textures. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice and transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, delicious meal. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a flavorful side, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- Bacon, chopped
- Eggs
- Green onions, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sautรฉ until fragrant.
- Push the garlic to the side and scramble the eggs in the same pan until fully cooked.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry until heated through.
- Add the cooked bacon, green onions, and frozen peas and carrots (if using).
- Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice, stirring well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly mixed and heated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick:ย Add sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Protein Swap:ย Substitute bacon with ham, sausage, or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option:ย Omit the bacon and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Low-Sodium:ย Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover bacon fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
FAQs
How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming mushy?
Use day-old, chilled rice as it has a firmer texture and reduces the risk of mushiness.
Can I freeze bacon fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati works best due to its drier, fluffier texture.
Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking it for fried rice?
Yes, rinsing removes excess starch, preventing clumping.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas make great additions.
How do I make it less salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasoning gradually.
Is it necessary to use sesame oil?
No, but sesame oil adds a distinct, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but let it cool completely and dry out a bit before using to avoid mushiness.
What can I serve with bacon fried rice?
It pairs well with egg rolls, dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.
Conclusion
Bacon Fried Rice is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and customize to your taste. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or using up leftovers, it’s a go-to recipe that delivers delicious results every time.
Print
Bacon Fried Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bacon Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that combines crispy, smoky bacon with fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings. Itโs perfect for using up leftover rice and makes a delicious weeknight meal or a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (if needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan. - Scramble the Eggs:
Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs and set aside with the bacon. - Sautรฉ the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the peas and carrots, cooking for another minute. - Fry the Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. - Season and Combine:
Return the bacon and scrambled eggs to the pan. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the rice. Add green onions and stir-fry for another minute. - Serve:
Remove from heat, garnish with extra green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize with additional veggies like bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms.
- Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *