Oh, Baked Fried Rice! This dish has a special place in my heart (and stomach). I remember the first time I tried it; I was at a friend’s house for a potluck, and there it was, sitting majestically in a silver dish, steaming and beckoning me with its tantalizing aroma. The crunchy bits, the colorful vegetables, and the golden edges — it was love at first bite!
What I adore about baked fried rice is how versatile it is. You can throw in whatever leftover vegetables you have in the fridge, mix in some protein (hello, last night’s chicken!), and voila! Dinner is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it reminds me of those lively family dinners where everyone gathered around the table and laughed over shared food. So, let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week!
What’s in Baked Fried Rice?
Rice: The star ingredient! I always use day-old rice for this recipe because it’s drier and absorbs flavors better. If you’re in a pinch, fresh rice can work, too, just be sure to let it cool completely. Jasmine or basmati adds a lovely aroma, but any white rice will do just fine.
Eggs: These bad boys not only add richness but also help bind everything together. Plus, they give the baked rice a delightful fluffiness. I usually use large eggs; organic if I can get my hands on them.
Vegetables: Here’s where you can get creative! I love using a mix of peas, carrots, and bell peppers for color and crunch. Fresh veggies are great, but frozen blends work like a charm and save on prep time!
Green Onions: These provide a burst of fresh flavor on top of the baked dish. I chop them finely and mix them in with the veggies — they really brighten up the rice!
Soy Sauce: This adds the savory depth that makes fried rice oh-so-delicious. I opt for low sodium to keep things on the healthier side, but use your favorite brand.
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle gives the rice a nutty richness that elevates the whole dish. A little goes a long way!
Is Baked Fried Rice Good for You?
You might be wondering if this dish is healthy, so let’s discuss! Baked fried rice can be a balanced meal if you load it with veggies and include protein.
Rice: While it’s a source of carbohydrates to give you energy, it can have a high glycemic index. Opt for whole grain rice for added fiber and nutrients.
Vegetables: Load it up with colorful vegetables! They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are super important for your health.
Eggs: A great source of protein and healthy fats, but if you’re watching your cholesterol, you might want to limit the amount or use egg whites.
The key to making this dish healthy is moderation. Control the amount of soy sauce and oil you use, and you have a balanced meal that’s full of flavor!
Ingredients List
– 4 cups of cooked day-old rice (preferably jasmine or basmati)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for greasing the baking dish
*This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on appetites!*
How to Make Baked Fried Rice?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing the baking dish is crucial to prevent the fried rice from sticking, so don’t skip this step!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, mixed vegetables, chopped green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Give it a good mix until everything is well-coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re frothy. Pour the eggs into the rice mixture and stir until everything is combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the soy sauce already adds some saltiness, so be cautious with additional salt!
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
6. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy. You can give it a stir halfway through if you’d like a more even bake!
7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is even better the next day, so make extra for leftovers!
Savvy Serving Suggestions
Feel free to make this dish your own! Here are a few fun variations:
– **Protein Boost:** Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein-packed meal. Just fold it into the rice mixture before baking.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you love some heat, add a teaspoon of chili sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix.
– **Cheesy Delight:** Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top in the last few minutes of baking — ooey-gooey goodness, anyone?
So there you have it! I hope you give this Baked Fried Rice recipe a try. It’s super easy, delicious, and makes for great leftovers. Plus, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking, my friend!
