Bacon Fried Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy bacon, perfectly cooked rice, and savory seasonings. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that works great for a quick lunch or dinner.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
3 green onions, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
1 tsp sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
Scramble the Eggs: Push the bacon fat to one side of the pan, add the beaten eggs, and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add vegetable oil to the pan if needed, then sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Add Vegetables: Toss in the frozen peas and carrots mix and stir-fry until they are heated through.
Stir in Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to mix with the vegetables.
Season the Rice: Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir until the rice is evenly coated.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked bacon and scrambled eggs to the pan, then toss in the green onions. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot.

Nutrients

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Why Bacon Fried Rice is a Must-Try Dish

Bacon Fried Rice is the perfect combination of smoky, crispy bacon and flavorful, well-seasoned rice. This dish takes inspiration from classic fried rice recipes but adds a Western twist with bacon as the star ingredient. It’s a go-to meal for busy individuals looking for something quick, filling, and satisfying. The balance of textures—crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and tender rice—makes every bite enjoyable. What makes Bacon Fried Rice even more appealing is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Whether you’re using leftover rice or cooking a fresh batch, this recipe is easy to adapt based on available ingredients.

The Role of Bacon in Fried Rice

Bacon plays a crucial role in elevating the flavors of this dish. Its rich, smoky, and slightly salty taste infuses the entire dish with depth. Unlike traditional fried rice recipes that rely on neutral oils, using bacon fat to sauté the other ingredients enhances their flavors. One of the best things about bacon is its ability to crisp up, adding a slight crunch to the dish. This contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rice and eggs. Moreover, the rendered fat acts as a natural flavor enhancer, making additional seasonings almost unnecessary.

Best Types of Rice for Fried Rice

For the best results, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and let it cool for a few hours before using it in the recipe. The texture of fried rice largely depends on the type of rice used. Here are some key points to consider:

Day-old rice: The best option for fried rice is leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. This allows the rice grains to dry out slightly, preventing them from becoming mushy during cooking.
Long-grain rice: Jasmine or basmati rice works well because they have a light, fluffy texture that doesn’t clump together.
Short-grain rice: While often used in sushi, short-grain rice can make the fried rice stickier, which some people prefer.

The Importance of Eggs in Fried Rice

Eggs are a staple ingredient in fried rice, adding richness and extra protein. Scrambling them separately ensures they remain soft and evenly distributed throughout the dish. Some variations of fried rice also include additional proteins like shrimp, chicken, or beef, but bacon alone is flavorful enough to stand out.

Customizing Your Bacon Fried Rice

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can customize the dish to suit different dietary preferences and taste preferences:

Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha for a heat boost.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheese for a rich, creamy finish.
Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and unsalted bacon to control salt intake.

Pairing Suggestions for Bacon Fried Rice

This dish is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a more complete meal. Some great options include:

Asian-inspired soups like miso soup or egg drop soup
Grilled or roasted meats such as teriyaki chicken or Korean BBQ
Steamed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snow peas
Dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or garlic soy sauce for extra flavor

Storage and Reheating Tips

Bacon Fried Rice is a great make-ahead dish that can be stored for later use. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it:

Refrigeration: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers for up to a month.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to bring back moisture. Alternatively, microwave it with a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Bacon Fried Rice is an easy, flavorful, and highly customizable dish that brings together the best of smoky bacon and savory rice. Whether you’re making it as a quick meal on a busy day or preparing a large batch for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. By using simple pantry staples and a few cooking techniques, you can turn a humble bowl of rice into a satisfying and indulgent dish. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Give it a try, experiment with different ingredients, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Bacon Fried Rice!

Pin1

1 Shares