Craving a truly authentic Vietnamese taste? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Fried Rice with Dried Fish (Com Chien Ca Kho). This dish is a delightful explosion of textures and flavors, featuring perfectly crispy rice grains punctuated by the savory umami of dried fish, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and a hint of fragrant herbs. It's a simple yet deeply satisfying meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more leisurely weekend brunch. The seemingly humble ingredients transform into something truly special, a testament to the magic of Vietnamese cuisine.
Forget bland, soggy fried rice; this recipe delivers a uniquely satisfying crunch in every bite. The secret lies in a few key techniques we'll explore in detail, ensuring your fried rice is as crispy as it is flavorful. Ready to learn how to create this Vietnamese culinary gem? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Bowls
- Pan
- Sieve
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Cold rice: 3 bowls
- Eggs: 3
- Onions
- Garlic
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Dried fish (cleaned fish, mackerel, or dried mackerel)
- Crispy flour
- Fish sauce: a little
- Pepper
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Crispy Rice
- wash and drain the dried fish. Use cold rice, ideally cooked the day before.
- Mix a portion of the cold rice with crispy flour, ensuring a thin coating. Fry this mixture in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to drain excess oil.
- In a pan with a little oil, fry the drained dried fish until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat, let cool, then remove bones and flake the fish.
Step 2. Cook the Rice and Egg Mixture
- Beat three eggs into the remaining cold rice. Mix well.
- Heat a pan with oil, add minced garlic and onions and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the rice and egg mixture and stir-fry over high heat until the rice is separated and fluffy.
Step 3. Season, Combine, and Garnish
- Add a little fish sauce and pepper. Stir-fry until fragrant. Add the flaked dried fish and stir to combine.
- Add the crispy fried rice and stir gently. Garnish with green onions and cilantro.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Use cold rice for the best results.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the rice.
- Fry the rice over medium to high heat for a crispy texture.
- Remove bones from the dried fish carefully.
- Don't over-squeeze the dried fish, maintain some texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 600-750
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 70-85g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. What kind of dried fish is best for this recipe?
Most recipes call for shredded basa or another firm white fish, but you can experiment with other types. Just ensure it's well-dried and not too salty.
2. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes! Using day-old rice is actually recommended. It's drier and less likely to become mushy when fried.
3. How do I achieve the crispy rice?
The key is to use medium-high heat and to spread the rice out in a single layer in the wok or pan. Don't overcrowd the pan, and stir frequently to ensure even cooking and crisping.
This Crispy Fried Rice with Dried Fish recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. From the satisfying crunch to the rich umami notes, it's a dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the simple pleasure of this authentic Vietnamese meal!