Description

Fried rice is a globally cherished dish, originating from China's Sui dynasty, celebrated for its adaptability and rich flavors. Traditionally crafted to repurpose leftovers, it has evolved into a versatile staple that accommodates various ingredients and personal tastes. This dump-and-bake fried rice simplifies the conventional stir-fry method, offering a hassle-free yet flavorful alternative. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you prefer minimal kitchen time, this recipe delivers the comforting essence of fried rice with ease.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup cooked and diced chicken, ham, or tofu
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the prepared dish. Distribute the frozen peas and carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic over the rice layer.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil until well combined. Pour this mixture over the rice and vegetables, ensuring the liquid covers the ingredients evenly. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which aids in cooking the rice uniformly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.

Once the rice is cooked, remove the dish from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Pour the beaten eggs over the hot rice mixture. Add the diced protein of your choice—chicken, ham, or tofu. Gently stir the mixture to combine; the residual heat will cook the eggs thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions to add a fresh, crisp element.

Tips and Conclusion

Protein Variations: Feel free to experiment with different proteins such as shrimp or flaked salmon to suit your taste.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the oyster sauce, use vegetable broth, and substitute the protein with tofu or beans.
Spice It Up: To introduce some heat, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Using Leftover Rice: If you have leftover cooked rice, you can use it in place of uncooked rice. Reduce the baking time accordingly, as you're merely heating and crisping the rice.
Smoky Flavor Addition: Incorporating a bit of cooked bacon or smoked sausage can impart a delightful smoky flavor to the dish.
This dump-and-bake fried rice is a testament to the dish's versatility and ease of preparation. It allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional fried rice without the need for constant stirring or stovetop supervision. Whether you're seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to utilize leftover ingredients, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice. Its adaptability ensures it can cater to various dietary preferences and ingredient availabilities, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.

For more easy and flavorful recipes, explore our collection of casseroles and one-pot meals that simplify cooking without compromising on taste. Share this recipe with friends and family, and invite them to discover the joy of effortless cooking.