Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and quick, this Breakfast Fried Rice is just what you need! It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make your mornings feel special. This recipe is especially great for those busy weekdays or even lazy weekend brunches when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice!

What I love most about this Breakfast Fried Rice is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in no time, and everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. It’s got that delicious smoky flavor, and when paired with fluffy scrambled eggs and crispy bacon, it’s a breakfast that feels indulgent without the heaviness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tasty combination of flavors!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
• Leftover Magic: A great use for leftover rice; no need to waste food!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this Breakfast Fried Rice; just some simple, wholesome items you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this delicious breakfast!

For the Base

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice

For Flavor

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

For Veggies

• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best things about Breakfast Fried Rice is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or tempeh for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Change up the flavors: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some Sriracha or chili flakes to give your fried rice an extra kick.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels—this will help absorb excess grease later. Add your chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok, then heat over medium heat. Cooking from cold allows the fat to render slowly, making it crispier without burning. Stir occasionally until it’s beautifully crisp, which should take about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to your prepared plate.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon is cooking, crack those eggs into a bowl and season them with kosher salt and ground pepper. Lightly beat with a fork until combined. This part is key—scrambling the eggs separately allows you to control their texture. Once the bacon is out of the pan, drain excess fat but leave about two tablespoons behind. Pour in the eggs and swirl them around until they start setting on the edges—this will give them that lovely soft texture.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Increase the heat to medium-high and melt your butter in the remaining bacon fat until it foams up nicely. Toss in your diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent—about 5-6 minutes—this brings out its natural sweetness! Then add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant; this usually takes only about a minute.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now it’s time for that cold cooked rice! Toss it into your skillet with onions and garlic until well mixed. Flatten it into an even layer without stirring too much—it’s important because letting it fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes gives you those crispy bits we all love.

Step 5: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture, using a wooden spoon to loosen any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan while mixing everything together thoroughly. Toss in your frozen peas, carrots, corn, and sesame oil next—stirring frequently ensures everything heats through evenly while keeping that wonderful dry texture.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, remove your skillet from heat! Carefully fold in that crispy bacon along with scrambled eggs and sliced green onions. This final touch makes sure every bite has all those yummy flavors mixed perfectly together. Serve immediately with extra soy sauce on top if desired!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Breakfast Fried Rice—it’s sure to become a favorite at your breakfast table!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Creating the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful experience that brings out the flavors of your ingredients. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice prevents clumping and gives you that perfect fried texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, making it harder to fry.

• Prep All Ingredients First: Have everything chopped and ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and ensures that each ingredient is added at the right time.

• Don’t Rush the Bacon: Cooking bacon slowly allows it to render more fat and become extra crisp. This adds flavor to the dish and creates a delicious base for cooking other ingredients.

• High Heat is Key: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve that satisfying stir-fried texture. It allows the ingredients to sear quickly, enhancing their flavors without becoming mushy.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you love. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can add color and nutrition, making your fried rice even more delightful!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving your Breakfast Fried Rice in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience for everyone. Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish:

Garnishes

• Sliced Avocado: Adding creamy avocado slices not only looks beautiful but also adds a rich flavor that complements the savory rice.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives a nice crunch and nutty flavor, elevating your dish visually and tastefully.
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and freshness, brightening up each bite with their aromatic qualities.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A light miso soup pairs perfectly with breakfast fried rice, offering warmth and umami flavors that enhance your meal.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp contrast to the warm fried rice, balancing textures and flavors beautifully.
• Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast, adding brightness to your plate.
• Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites make an excellent side option, providing additional protein and flavor that complements the fried rice perfectly.

Enjoy serving up this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can whip up a batch, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the rice into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the fried rice cool down before freezing.
• Portion the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Breakfast Fried Rice.

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with plant-based bacon or simply omit it altogether for a lighter version.

What makes this Breakfast Fried Rice different from other fried rice recipes?

This Breakfast Fried Rice features scrambled eggs and a delightful mix of vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that’s quick and easy to prepare.

How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or tofu to make it your own. The recipe is versatile!

Can I use day-old rice for this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe?

Yes! In fact, using day-old rice helps achieve that perfect texture. Just ensure it’s stored properly in the refrigerator before use.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s a wonderful way to start your day on a tasty note while being quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!