The aroma of sizzling bacon intertwined with the earthy scent of rice transports me back to Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where laughter and love were as abundant as the ingredients simmering on the stove. Bacon Fried Rice was one of her favorite quick fixes, a dish that danced between simplicity and sophistication. It’s a recipe that has traveled through generations, from Mama Lou’s hands to mine, and now to you, carrying with it the warmth of family gatherings and the subtle notes of nostalgia that make each bite a cherished memory.
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Why You’ll Love This Bacon Fried Rice
There’s something truly magical about Bacon Fried Rice. It’s a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly but also feeds your soul. I remember those Sunday afternoons, where my sister Ouma and I would eagerly await the rich, savory aroma wafting through the house. This dish is a delightful symphony of flavors: the salty crispness of bacon, the umami of soy sauce, and the gentle bite of green onions. It’s a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious, perfect for a casual family dinner or an unexpected potluck. With every spoonful, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re partaking in a story, a legacy handed down with love.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Bacon Fried Rice
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled overnight)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to make it your own by substituting ingredients as needed. Turkey bacon can be a lighter option, and for a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes can do wonders!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 460 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
Sizzling Bacon Fried Rice: A Flavor Explosion You Can’t Resist
Learn how to make delicious Bacon Fried Rice. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled overnight)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to make it your own by substituting ingredients as needed. Turkey bacon can be a lighter option, and for a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes can do wonders!
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them gently until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder, mixing well to ensure the rice is evenly coated.
- Return the cooked bacon and scrambled eggs to the pan, stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Cooking with Mama Lou taught me the art of patience and tasting as you go. Don’t rush the process; let the flavors blend and develop their magic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Bacon Fried Rice
- Begin by heating a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them gently until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder, mixing well to ensure the rice is evenly coated.
- Return the cooked bacon and scrambled eggs to the pan, stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Cooking with Mama Lou taught me the art of patience and tasting as you go. Don’t rush the process; let the flavors blend and develop their magic.
Tips for Making the Best Bacon Fried Rice
One of the secrets to perfect Bacon Fried Rice is using day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can turn mushy. If you’re in a pinch, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and freeze for about 20 minutes to dry it out. Always use a large pan to give each ingredient room to fry rather than steam, and keep stirring to prevent sticking. Finally, remember that a splash of sesame oil at the end can lift the flavors, making them sing.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Bacon Fried Rice is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of hot and sour soup. For a family feast, I love serving it alongside sweet and sour chicken or ginger-steamed fish. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures, much like a well-composed song.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the rice’s moisture. Microwaves can also work in a pinch, but remember to stir halfway through for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Bacon Fried Rice?
The main ingredients for Bacon Fried Rice include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Bacon Fried Rice?
The total time to make Bacon Fried Rice includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Bacon Fried Rice ahead of time?
Yes, Bacon Fried Rice can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Bacon Fried Rice?
Bacon Fried Rice pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Bacon Fried Rice suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Bacon Fried Rice may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Making Bacon Fried Rice isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing a piece of history and family tradition. Every step, every ingredient is a thread in the tapestry of my culinary journey. As you prepare this dish, may it bring you the same sense of warmth and connection that it has brought me throughout the years. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and remember, from my family to yours, food is love made visible.
