There’s something magical about the aroma of sizzling bacon wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings, where breakfast was a feast and the day stretched ahead like a blank canvas. Now, as a busy home cook, I find that Bacon Fried Rice is my go-to dish for those hectic evenings. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply whip up a meal in no time, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious dinner that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Fried Rice
Bacon Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the colorful veggies bring a burst of freshness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients for Bacon Fried Rice
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Bacon Fried Rice. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked white rice: Day-old rice works best. It’s drier and helps achieve that perfect fried texture.
Bacon: The star of the show! Choose thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
Frozen peas and carrots: These add color and sweetness. They’re convenient and don’t require chopping.
Green onions: Fresh and vibrant, they bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Eggs: Beaten eggs add richness and protein. They’re essential for that classic fried rice texture.
Soy sauce: This salty, umami-packed sauce is crucial for flavor. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Sesame oil: A drizzle of this fragrant oil elevates the dish with a nutty aroma.
Garlic powder: For a hint of garlicky goodness without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a teaspoon of ginger for a zesty kick or a splash of sriracha for some heat. If bacon isn’t your thing, diced chicken or shrimp can be great substitutes. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Bacon Fried Rice
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Bacon Fried Rice is straightforward and fun. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and let it sizzle. The goal is to cook it until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it; nobody likes burnt bacon! Once it’s done, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside. Don’t toss that bacon fat; it’s liquid gold for flavor!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the frozen peas and carrots. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re heated through. The vibrant colors will brighten your dish. If you want to add a little zing, toss in a teaspoon of ginger at this stage. It pairs beautifully with the bacon!
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble them gently until fully cooked, which should take about 2 minutes. Once they’re fluffy and golden, mix them with the vegetables. This step adds richness and a lovely texture to your Bacon Fried Rice.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Now it’s time for the star of the show: the rice! Add your cooked white rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps as you go. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice gets coated in that delicious bacon fat. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors start to meld.
Step 5: Season the Mixture
Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make it just right!
Step 6: Combine Everything
Finally, add the crispy bacon and sliced green onions back into the skillet. Mix everything until it’s evenly distributed and heated through. The aroma will be irresistible, and you’ll be tempted to dive right in!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined, it’s time to serve. Dish out your Bacon Fried Rice hot, garnished with extra green onions if you like. Pair it with a cold drink, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this flavor-packed dish!
Tips for Success
Use day-old rice for the best texture; it’s drier and fries up nicely.
Don’t rush the bacon; crispy is key for flavor and crunch.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Keep the heat medium-high for that perfect stir-fry finish.
Taste as you go; adjust seasoning to suit your palate.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: A non-stick skillet works well if you don’t have a wok.
Spatula: A wooden or silicone spatula is perfect for stirring without scratching.
Measuring cups: Handy for portioning out your ingredients.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping bacon and veggies.
Variations of Bacon Fried Rice
Vegetable Delight: Swap out the bacon for extra veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini for a lighter option.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
Protein Power: Substitute bacon with diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein source.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of freshness.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Fried Rice
Pair with a salad: A crisp cucumber or Asian slaw salad complements the richness of the fried rice.
Serve with soy sauce: Offer extra soy sauce or sriracha on the side for those who like a little more flavor.
Presentation: Garnish with sesame seeds or additional green onions for a pop of color.
Drink options: Enjoy with a cold beer or iced green tea for a refreshing balance.
FAQs about Bacon Fried Rice
Can I use leftover rice for Bacon Fried Rice?
Absolutely! In fact, day-old rice is ideal for this dish. It’s drier and helps achieve that perfect fried texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, making it harder to fry.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If bacon isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for diced chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the dish!
How can I make Bacon Fried Rice spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
Is Bacon Fried Rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet. Just check the label to be sure!
Can I add more vegetables to my Bacon Fried Rice?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add color and nutrition to your dish. Just sauté them along with the peas and carrots.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Bacon Fried Rice is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The sizzle of bacon, the vibrant colors of fresh veggies, and the comforting aroma all come together to make this dish a true delight. It’s a recipe that invites creativity, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. So grab your skillet, and let the flavor fusion begin!
Bacon Fried Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines crispy bacon with flavorful vegetables and rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
6 strips of bacon, chopped
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
3 green onions, sliced
2 large eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large skillet or wok, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir everything together.
Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Add the cooked bacon and sliced green onions, mixing until everything is evenly distributed and heated through.
Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of ginger or a splash of sriracha for some heat.
Substitute the bacon with diced chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
