Easy & Flavorful Pork Fried Rice Recipe
A takeout favorite, pork fried rice is the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and satisfying. This homemade version delivers all the flavors you love—tender Chinese BBQ pork, fragrant jasmine rice, and a rich, umami-packed sauce—all stir-fried to perfection.
What sets this dish apart is the char siu pork, with its caramelized edges and deep, smoky sweetness. Combined with fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and crisp bean sprouts, every bite offers a delicious contrast of textures, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
Quick to prepare and incredibly flavorful, this pork fried rice is a must-try for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re recreating takeout at home or using up leftovers, this easy recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality dish in just minutes.
Pork Fried Rice Ingredients: The Essential Flavors
Char Siu Pork – The heart of this dish, Chinese BBQ pork adds a deep, smoky sweetness with caramelized edges, infusing every bite with authentic takeout flavor.
Jasmine Rice – Fragrant and fluffy, this rice serves as the perfect base, absorbing the rich sauce while maintaining its signature light texture.
Soy Sauce Duo – A blend of light and dark soy sauce creates a balanced umami depth, enhancing the dish with both savory complexity and a hint of caramelized richness.
Eggs – Scrambled to soft perfection, they introduce a silky texture while adding a subtle richness that complements the bold flavors.
Scallions & Onions – These aromatic ingredients bring freshness and a mild bite, balancing the richness with their crisp, slightly sweet contrast.
Pork Fried Rice: Tips, Serving Suggestions & FAQs
Pork fried rice is a classic takeout favorite, bringing together smoky char siu pork, fluffy jasmine rice, and a rich umami sauce. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, these expert tips and serving suggestions will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Recipe Tips
1. Use Day-Old Rice for the Best Texture
Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Using day-old rice, stored in the refrigerator overnight, ensures each grain remains separate and firm, creating that signature fluffy, slightly chewy texture. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for 30 minutes before using.
2. Cook Over High Heat for Authentic Wok Hei
For that classic smoky, restaurant-style flavor, cook your fried rice over high heat. If using a wok, let it get very hot before adding oil. Stir-frying at high heat allows the ingredients to caramelize slightly, enhancing the depth of flavor. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work, but make sure not to overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the rice.
3. Customize with Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
While traditional pork fried rice includes char siu, eggs, and scallions, you can add your own twist. Try tossing in diced bell peppers for sweetness, frozen peas for extra texture, or even a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick. The key is to keep ingredients minimal so the rice remains the star.
What to Serve with Pork Fried Rice
1. Egg Drop Soup
A light and comforting egg drop soup pairs perfectly with pork fried rice, balancing its rich flavors with a delicate, silky broth. The simplicity of the soup allows the bold, smoky taste of the fried rice to shine without overpowering the meal.
2. Chinese-Style Garlic Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil add a refreshing crunch and a burst of umami. Their vibrant, slightly charred flavor complements the savory depth of the pork fried rice, making for a well-rounded plate.
3. Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls
For a satisfying appetizer or side, serve pork fried rice alongside crispy spring rolls or egg rolls. The crispy wrapper and flavorful filling provide a great contrast to the soft, savory rice, creating a meal that feels like an authentic takeout feast.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes! While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, you can use long-grain white rice, basmati, or even brown rice. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before stir-frying to prevent clumping.
2. Can I make pork fried rice without a wok?
Absolutely! A large, heavy-bottomed skillet works well. Just ensure the pan is hot enough to sear the ingredients quickly and use a wide surface to allow even frying.
3. How do I store and reheat pork fried rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil or water, stirring frequently until hot. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rice mushy.
4. Can I use leftover roast pork instead of char siu?
Yes! While char siu adds a distinct sweet and smoky flavor, any cooked pork, such as roast pork or grilled pork chops, can be diced and used as a substitute. You can enhance the flavor by marinating the pork in a little soy sauce and honey before adding it to the rice.
With these expert tips and serving ideas, your homemade pork fried rice will be even better than takeout. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or served with flavorful sides, this classic recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Pork Fried Rice
Ingredients
- Jasmine Rice – Cooked and fluffed with a hint of oil to prevent clumping
- Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu – Cut into small, bite-sized chunks for even distribution
- Eggs – Scrambled and incorporated for a velvety texture
- Onion – Finely diced lending a subtle sweetness to the dish
- Scallions – Chopped adding freshness and a mild onion bite
- Bean Sprouts – Contributing a light crisp contrast to the rich flavors
- Cooking Oil – Essential for sautéing and achieving a golden sear
- Salt – Enhancing the overall depth of flavor
- Sauce Mixture:
- Soy Sauce & Dark Soy Sauce – A combination that delivers both salinity and a rich caramelized undertone
- Shaoxing Wine or Dry Cooking Sherry – Introducing a subtle aromatic complexity
- Sesame Oil – Imparting a distinctive nuttiness
- Honey – Balancing the savory elements with a hint of sweetness
- Hot Water – Allowing for a seamless blend of ingredients
- White Pepper – Providing a gentle warmth and depth
Instructions
- In a small bowl, prepare the sauce by whisking together hot water, honey, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine (if using), soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and white pepper. Having the sauce pre-mixed ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Fluff the cooked jasmine rice using a fork or clean hands to separate any clumps. If needed, lightly dampen hands with cold water to prevent sticking. Properly loosened rice helps achieve an ideal texture when stir-fried.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened and translucent. Introduce the chopped Chinese BBQ pork, stirring to combine. Next, incorporate the rice, ensuring even distribution of ingredients. If the rice is chilled, stir-fry for approximately five minutes to thoroughly warm it; if freshly cooked, simply mix until integrated.
- Pour the pre-prepared sauce over the rice, along with salt. Using a scooping motion, stir to evenly coat the grains. Break apart any remaining clumps, ensuring that the sauce is fully absorbed and the rice is heated through.
- Add the bean sprouts, scrambled eggs, and chopped scallions. Stir-fry for an additional one to two minutes, ensuring all elements are well combined. Once everything is heated through, serve immediately.
