Breakfast Fried Rice

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavor and satisfaction. This recipe offers a quick and nutritious way to start your day or use up leftovers. With its smoky turkey bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and colorful vegetables, this fried rice is suitable for breakfast, brunch, or even lunch. It’s not just easy to make; it also satisfies those cravings for classic comfort food without the heaviness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in any leftover meats or veggies for a customized meal.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from the eggs and turkey bacon, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal!
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the flavors, making it a hit for breakfast or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Wok: A large surface area helps fry the rice evenly and prevents overcrowding.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for safely removing cooked turkey bacon without excess grease.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for gently scrambling eggs and mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Protein

• 6 slices Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs

Seasonings

• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper

Fats

• 2 tbsp butter

Vegetables

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Rice & Sauces

• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Add chopped turkey bacon to a cold 12” skillet or wok. Heat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until crispy (about 10 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

In a bowl, crack the eggs and season with salt and pepper. Lightly beat with a fork. Drain excess fat from the skillet but leave about 2 tablespoons. Add the eggs to the skillet, swirling to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges set. Scramble gently until fully cooked to your liking.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Increase heat to medium-high. Melt butter in the skillet until foamy. Add diced onion; sauté until translucent (5-6 minutes). Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add cold cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well with onion and garlic. Flatten into an even layer and fry undisturbed for 4-5 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Sauces and Veggies

Pour soy sauce over rice. Use a wooden spoon to loosen rice from skillet while stirring in sauces. Add frozen peas, carrots, corn, and sesame oil; mix frequently until veggies are warm through.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Remove from heat. Stir in crispy turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with additional soy sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Fried Rice, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your breakfast experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Basil: Thai basil provides a unique sweet and spicy aroma.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Sriracha: A spicy kick that complements the rich flavors of the rice.
• Soy Sauce: Enhance the umami taste with an extra drizzle of soy sauce.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, hot sauce can elevate the dish.

Pair with Protein

• Fried Egg: A sunny-side-up egg on top makes for a hearty addition.
• Scrambled Tofu: For a vegetarian option, scrambled tofu adds protein and texture.
• Grilled Chicken: Thinly sliced grilled chicken can make it more filling.

How to Perfect Breakfast Fried Rice

Perfecting Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice works best as it’s drier and fries up better.
• Preheat Your Pan: A hot skillet ensures that the rice gets crispy without steaming.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the rice.
• Add Ingredients Gradually: Introduce vegetables and proteins in stages for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste before adding more soy sauce or salt for balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice pairs well with various side dishes that complement its savory profile. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits cleanses the palate.
2. Miso Soup: This warm soup offers a comforting contrast and is easy to prepare.
3. Cucumber Salad: Lightly pickled cucumbers add crunch and acidity to balance flavors.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls provide texture and additional veggies.
5. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables enhance your meal’s heartiness.
6. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread adds richness and healthy fats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Breakfast Fried Rice, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Overcooking the Rice: Using freshly cooked rice can lead to mushy fried rice. Opt for cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can leave your dish bland. Ensure you add enough soy sauce and spices to enhance flavor.
• Crowding the Pan: Adding too much at once can lower the pan’s temperature. Cook in batches if necessary for even frying.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect taste. Invest in quality turkey bacon and fresh vegetables for a better meal.
• Skipping the Scramble Technique: Not stirring the eggs properly can result in uneven cooking. Scramble them gently for fluffy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Breakfast Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Breakfast Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 15 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or water until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Breakfast Fried Rice.

What makes Breakfast Fried Rice special?

Breakfast Fried Rice is special because it combines familiar breakfast ingredients with savory rice, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare.

Can I use leftover vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand to customize your Breakfast Fried Rice further.

Is Breakfast Fried Rice healthy?

Yes! By using turkey bacon and plenty of vegetables, this dish can be a healthier option compared to traditional greasy breakfasts.

How do I make Vegetarian Breakfast Fried Rice?

To make vegetarian Breakfast Fried Rice, simply omit the turkey bacon and substitute it with tofu or additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Whether you’re using leftovers or trying new veggie combinations, this recipe will satisfy your breakfast cravings any day of the week!