Vietnamese fried rice, or cơm chiên, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Unlike many fried rice recipes, the Vietnamese version often features a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and sometimes slightly tangy elements, creating a complex flavor profile that's truly addictive. The key lies in the careful balance of ingredients, from the fragrant rice to the perfectly seasoned protein and the burst of freshness from herbs and vegetables. This isn't your average takeout; it's a culinary adventure you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.
This recipe offers a quick and simple approach to mastering this beloved dish, perfect for weeknight meals or a fun weekend cooking project. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked rice with a delicious depth of flavor. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process below!
Tools Needed
- Frying Pan
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Onion: ½
- Vietnamese Sausage: 1-2 links
- Shrimp: 10-15 pieces
- Day-old Steamed Rice: 2-3 cups
- Frozen Vegetables: 1 cup
- Eggs: 1-2
- Garlic
- Cooking Oil: 2 tbsp
- Soy Sauce: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Mushroom Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Chinese Fried Rice Seasoning Mix
- Cilantro
- Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Proteins
- Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a frying pan over high heat. Add Vietnamese sausage and cook for about a minute.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Add chopped onions and cook until softened.
Step 2. Season and Stir-fry Rice and Vegetables
- Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp mushroom seasoning, and Chinese fried rice seasoning mix (or fish sauce).
- Add day-old rice, frozen vegetables and stir-fry until heated through.
Step 3. Add Eggs and Combine
- Add eggs, stir and combine everything.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Season with black pepper and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Read more: Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Gac (Red Melon) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Using day-old rice is best for fried rice as it's less sticky.
- You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking.
- For a prettier presentation, add cilantro.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rice for Vietnamese fried rice?
Yes! Leftover rice is actually ideal. It's drier and less sticky, preventing the fried rice from becoming mushy.
2. What kind of protein can I use?
Chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu all work well. Choose your favorite, or use what you have on hand!
With this recipe, you’ve unlocked the secret to creating restaurant-quality Vietnamese fried rice right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the ease of preparation – this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend cooking project. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills!