Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast that feels indulgent without the guilt, then this Breakfast Fried Rice is just what you need! Packed with flavor and easy to whip up, it uses simple ingredients you may already have on hand. This dish is perfect for those busy mornings or even cozy family gatherings when everyone can dig in and enjoy a delicious start to the day.

What makes this recipe special? It’s all about the delightful combination of smoky flavors and fluffy eggs, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Breakfast Fried Rice comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love it! The colorful veggies and savory flavors make it a sure hit at the breakfast table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use leftover rice and swap in any of your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch.
• Satisfying Flavor: Enjoy that comforting taste of fried rice without feeling heavy afterward. It’s deliciously filling yet light!
• Easy Clean-Up: With just one skillet needed, this recipe means less time doing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Breakfast Fried Rice is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Base

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

The beauty of Breakfast Fried Rice lies in its versatility! You can easily make this dish your own by mixing things up a bit.

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach to increase the nutrition factor.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes if you crave some heat!
• Make it egg-free: Substitute scrambled tofu for the eggs to cater to vegan diets while still packing in flavor.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels and set it aside. In a cold skillet or wok, add the chopped bacon. Heating it gradually allows the fat to render properly, which helps achieve that perfect crispness. Cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and transfer it to your prepared plate.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon is cooking, crack the eggs into a bowl. Season them with salt and pepper before lightly beating with a fork. Once your bacon is out of the pan, leave about 2 tablespoons of fat behind. Pour in your beaten eggs, swirling them around to coat the bottom of the pan. Allow them to cook for 1-2 minutes until they start setting around the edges before gently scrambling them until cooked through. Set these aside as well!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Increase your heat to medium-high and add butter until melted and foamy. Toss in diced onions immediately so they absorb all that delicious flavor from the fat. Sauté until they become translucent—this usually takes about 5-6 minutes—then stir in minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Frying Up The Rice

Add your cold cooked rice directly into the skillet with those aromatic onions and garlic. Toss everything together well before smoothing out the mixture into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. Let it fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes; this helps develop those lovely crispy bits!

Step 5: Add Sauce and Veggies

Drizzle soy sauce over your fried rice and loosen anything stuck at the bottom with a wooden spoon. Mix in those vibrant frozen peas, carrots, corn, and toasted sesame oil while tossing frequently until everything is warmed through.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, remove from heat! Stir back in your crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions for that final burst of flavor. Serve immediately with extra soy sauce on hand if desired.

Enjoy every bite of this savory Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is easy with a few helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist, leading to clumpy fried rice. Day-old rice has dried out slightly, making it ideal for frying without becoming mushy.

• Prep Your Ingredients First: Before you start cooking, chop all your vegetables and measure out the sauces. This will streamline your cooking process and help you avoid burning anything while you’re multitasking.

• High Heat is Key: Cooking on medium-high heat allows the ingredients to fry properly, creating that coveted smoky flavor and crispy texture. Just be sure to keep stirring!

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in two separate pans. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, which won’t give you the desired texture.

• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to swap in any vegetables or proteins you love! You can use bell peppers, broccoli, or even tofu for extra protein. Just keep the ratios similar for best results.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Presenting your Breakfast Fried Rice beautifully not only enhances its appeal but makes each bite even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Sliced Avocado: A few slices of creamy avocado add richness and a fresh flavor that balances the savory notes of the fried rice.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the dish with an exciting kick.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors nicely.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs perfectly with breakfast fried rice, adding a comforting touch and deep umami flavor.
• Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with sesame dressing offers a crunchy contrast to the warm rice.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds sweetness and color, balancing the savory elements of your meal.
• Steamed Dumplings: Lightly steamed vegetable dumplings can round out your breakfast spread while providing additional textures and flavors.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create a delightful breakfast experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your homemade Breakfast Fried Rice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making breakfast quick and hassle-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Let the fried rice cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also use the microwave; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Breakfast Fried Rice:

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Absolutely! You can replace bacon with alternatives like turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute. The recipe will still be delicious!

How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, or switch out the eggs for scrambled tofu for a vegan option.

What’s a good way to serve Breakfast Fried Rice?

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also pair it with additional soy sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor!

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

Yes! In fact, day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and fries up beautifully.

How long does it take to prepare Breakfast Fried Rice?

The total time is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking. It’s worth every minute for that satisfying breakfast!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe brings joy and satisfaction to your mornings! It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for using up leftovers. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!