As I walked into my kitchen, a wave of nostalgia hit me—my grandmother’s kitchen always smelled of sizzling garlic and sweet, smoky BBQ. Inspired by those cherished memories, I’ve crafted a delightful recipe for Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice that transforms leftover rice into a vibrant, umami-rich meal in under 20 minutes. Picture this: the golden rice mingles with tender char siu pork, crunchy carrots, and fresh herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility; it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a way to impress friends with minimal effort. And don’t worry if you think cooking fried rice might be too intimidating—this recipe is straightforward and forgiving! So, if you find yourself with some leftover rice or Chinese BBQ pork, let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together and make a dish that’s both comforting and quick!
Why You’ll Love This Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice
Quick and Easy: This fried rice dish takes just 20 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: With savory char siu pork, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, each bite is packed with umami goodness that will satisfy all taste buds.
Utilizes Leftovers: Transform that leftover rice into a vibrant meal, showcasing your resourcefulness in the kitchen!
Customizable: Feel free to switch out proteins or add your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile dish that can adapt to your pantry items.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends with its delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing.
Simplicity: Even beginner cooks can master this recipe, thanks to its straightforward steps and forgiving nature. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of homemade fried rice!
Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice Ingredients
Transform your leftovers into a quick, delightful meal with these essential ingredients!
For the Fried Rice
- Leftover Rice – Use day-old rice for optimal texture; it’s firmer and perfect for frying.
- Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) – Adds savory depth; finely dice for even blending with rice.
- Eggs – Contributes fluffiness; whisk until bubbly for a light stir-fry finish.
- Carrot – Provides sweetness and crunch; finely diced to match rice size.
- Coriander (Cilantro) – Adds freshness; use stems during cooking and leaves for garnishing.
- Spring Onions (Scallions) – Introduces mild onion flavor; white parts for cooking and green for garnish.
- Garlic – Imparts aroma and depth; mince for even distribution.
- Oil – Neutral-tasting to avoid flavor interference; consider olive oil for health benefits.
- Soy Sauce – Key seasoning that adds saltiness and umami to the Chinese BBQ pork fried rice.
- Salt & White Pepper – Fine-tune flavor; white pepper provides warmth.
How to Make Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice
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Preheat a wok or large frying pan over high heat, then add 1 tablespoon of oil. This ensures a hot cooking surface for the best stir-fry texture.
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Whisk the eggs in a bowl until fluffy, then pour them into the hot wok. Gently stir for about 30 seconds until just cooked; remove them and set aside.
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Add the remaining oil to the wok, followed by minced garlic, white parts of spring onions, coriander stems, and finely diced carrots. Stir-fry for around 2 minutes until fragrant and the carrots soften slightly.
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Incorporate the diced Chinese BBQ pork into the mix. Stir-fry it over high heat for approximately 1.5 minutes until nicely caramelized.
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Mix in the leftover rice, breaking up any clumps gently. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, allowing each grain to heat through and embrace the flavors around it.
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Season the rice with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper; stir for another 10 seconds to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the dish.
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Fold the reserved scrambled eggs back in, breaking them into smaller pieces. Add the green parts of the spring onions and the coriander leaves, mixing for an extra 20 seconds before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle additional coriander before serving for an extra pop of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice?
Unleash a banquet of delightful flavors that will complement your vibrant, umami-rich fried rice!
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Garlic Spinach Stir-Fry:
This simple side dish features juicy spinach sautéed in garlic, ensuring a fresh contrast to the savory fried rice. It’s quick to make and adds a nutritious component to the meal. -
Crispy Spring Rolls:
These delightful golden rolls are filled with mixed vegetables, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender textures in the fried rice. They make for a fun finger food alongside your dish! -
Zesty Cucumber Salad:
This refreshing salad balances the warm fried rice with a crunchy texture and a zing from vinegar, making each bite a refreshing experience. The cooler elements cleanse the palate perfectly. -
Hot Tea or Jasmine Tea:
Serving a pot of hot tea helps to soothe the palate, allowing the flavors of the fried rice to shine. The mild fragrance of jasmine tea wonderfully complements the dish’s richness. -
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
A small dish of sweet and sour sauce brings a playful twist, encouraging everyone to dip and savor with each bite. This fun addition will elevate your meal and surprise your guests. -
Fruit Cocktail:
A colorful mix of tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, and kiwi adds a sweet finish after the savory meal. Their brightness and sweetness create a delightful ending to your fried rice experience. -
Mango Sorbet:
This frozen treat is a refreshing way to cleanse the palate after the delicious richness of the fried rice. The fruity, icy dessert is sure to please both kids and adults, creating smiles all around.
Expert Tips for Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: Always opt for day-old rice to achieve a firm texture—freshly cooked rice can lead to a mushy fried rice that clumps together.
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High Heat Cooking: Keep your wok on high heat while stir-frying. This technique develops the signature ‘wok hei’ flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Chinese BBQ pork fried rice.
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Don’t Overcook the Eggs: To maintain the fluffiness and flavor of the eggs, remove them from the wok while they’re just set. Overcooking can make them rubbery rather than light and tender.
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Avoid Clumping: When adding leftover rice, gently break apart clumps to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
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Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to tweak this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or changing the protein. This makes your fried rice unique and ensures you use what’s available in your kitchen.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your fried rice before serving to balance the flavors. Adjust the soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to suit your preference.
Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative with these suggestions to make this dish uniquely your own!
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Protein Swap: Substitute Chinese BBQ pork with chicken, shrimp, or diced tofu for a different but equally satisfying flavor profile. Each option brings its charm to the dish!
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Vegetable Boost: Add in some peas, bell peppers, or bean sprouts for a vibrant, colorful mix that enhances nutrition and texture. The crunch of fresh veggies beautifully contrasts with the soft rice.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil to elevate the heat level of your fried rice. It adds a fiery edge that some may find irresistible!
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Herb Enhancements: Experiment with basil or mint in place of cilantro for a surprising twist of freshness. These herbs can lighten the dish and bring new layers of flavor.
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Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, cook your rice in coconut milk instead of water. It adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with BBQ pork.
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Sweet & Savory: Mix in some pineapple chunks for a sweet burst that complements the savory elements. The sweet-tart flavor contrasts beautifully with the umami-rich ingredients.
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Nutty Aroma: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference!
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Vegan Delight: Replace the eggs with scrambled chickpea flour for a vegan-friendly alternative that still offers protein and texture. You’ll hardly miss the eggs with this delicious substitution!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice
Fridge: Store any leftover Chinese BBQ pork fried rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water to the fried rice in a skillet or microwave for about 1-2 minutes. This restores moisture and prevents it from drying out.
Airtight Guidance: Always ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain optimal flavor and freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice bowls are perfect for meal prep to make your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prep the key components—like the diced Chinese BBQ pork, chopped veggies, and whisked eggs—up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can also have the leftover rice ready, as cold, day-old rice is ideal for fried rice. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry everything together in a hot wok, adding soy sauce and seasoning to taste. This way, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time, just as delicious as if you prepared it from scratch!
Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for fried rice?
Absolutely! It’s best to use day-old rice for this Chinese BBQ pork fried rice recipe. Freshly cooked rice has more moisture, which can lead to a clumpy texture when stir-fried. Day-old rice is firmer and less sticky, making it easier to achieve that perfect fried rice texture.
How should I store leftover Chinese BBQ pork fried rice?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the dish’s flavor and texture. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Chinese BBQ pork fried rice?
Yes! To freeze, first allow the fried rice to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, sealing it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water for moisture.
What can I do if my fried rice is too salty?
If you find your fried rice too salty after seasoning, don’t worry! You can balance the flavors by adding more cooked rice to dilute the saltiness. If it’s too late for that, consider adding a splash of vinegar or squeezing in some lime juice for some acidity that can cut through excess salt.
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This Chinese BBQ pork fried rice recipe is quite flexible. If you have allergies, feel free to substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free version or use tamari. Additionally, to make it vegetarian, swap the pork for tofu or more vegetables. Just be mindful of any specific allergies related to egg or the chosen vegetables.
How can I customize this fried rice recipe?
The more the merrier! You can easily swap the Chinese BBQ pork for other proteins like chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. Add in vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or bean sprouts to enhance the nutritional value and add a splash of color. Adjusting the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry is part of the fun!
Savory Chinese BBQ Pork Fried Rice in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a wok or large frying pan over high heat, then add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Whisk the eggs in a bowl until fluffy, then pour them into the hot wok. Stir for about 30 seconds until just cooked; remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining oil, then minced garlic, white parts of spring onions, coriander stems, and diced carrots. Stir-fry for around 2 minutes.
- Incorporate the diced Chinese BBQ pork into the mix. Stir-fry over high heat for approximately 1.5 minutes.
- Mix in the leftover rice, breaking up any clumps gently. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
- Season the rice with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper; stir for another 10 seconds.
- Fold the reserved scrambled eggs back in, breaking them into smaller pieces. Add green parts of spring onions and coriander leaves.