Introduction

Rice sautéed with ham and shrimp is a delightful and versatile dish that perfectly combines flavors and textures. This dish is simple yet satisfying, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With a mix of tender rice, savory ham, and fresh shrimp, it’s a meal that can easily please a crowd.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Long grain rice: 250g
– Cooked ham, diced: 150g
– Cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined: 200g
– Onions, chopped: 1
– Garlic cloves, minced: 2
– Bell pepper, diced: 1
– Peas: 100g
– Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Green onions, sliced for garnish: optional

Prep Time

Preparation for this dish takes about 10 minutes, allowing you to gather and prep all your ingredients efficiently.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is approximately 15 minutes, bringing the total time for making this dish to around 25 minutes. The recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for family meals or sharing with friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

Begin by preparing all the necessary ingredients. Dice the ham and peel the shrimp if they are not already prepped. Chop the vegetables into small pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.

Cooking the Rice

Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. It’s best to use rice that has cooled down, as this helps prevent it from becoming mushy during the stir-frying process.

Sautéing the Ingredients

In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced ham and sauté until it begins to brown slightly. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Adding Vegetables and Shrimp

Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet, stirring frequently. After about 2-3 minutes, when the vegetables start to soften, add the shrimp. Continue to stir until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Combining Rice

Lower the heat and add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cook together for another 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is heated through and absorbs the flavors.

Final Seasoning

Season the stir-fried rice with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and adjust the seasoning if necessary, allowing it to cook for another minute.

Serving the Dish

Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the rice sautéed with ham and shrimp hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Rice Type

Long grain rice works best for this dish as it remains fluffy and separates easily during cooking.

Vegetable Choices

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference. Bell peppers, peas, and carrots are great options.

Protein Variations

If you are not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving again.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking method that involves cooking food at high heat in a small amount of fat. This technique helps to retain the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients, making it perfect for vegetables, meats, and seafood.

Stir-frying

Stir-frying is similar to sautéing but typically occurs in a wok and often involves continuously stirring the ingredients while cooking. This technique is ideal for ensuring even cooking and maintaining a crispy texture.

Boiling

Boiling involves cooking food in water or broth at a high temperature. It’s commonly used for cooking grains and vegetables, allowing them to absorb flavors from the liquid without losing their essence.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning is essential to enhance the taste of your dish. Adding salt, pepper, and other spices at different stages of cooking can elevate the overall flavor profile significantly.

Garnishing

Garnishing is the final touch that improves the visual appeal of a dish. Fresh herbs, sliced vegetables, or a drizzle of sauce can add color and texture, enhancing the presentation.

FAQ

Can I replace the shrimp with other proteins?

Yes, you can easily swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or other seafood based on your preference.

What type of rice works best for this dish?

Jasmine rice or basmati rice are ideal because they have a fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the shrimp and ham with a variety of vegetables and tofu for protein.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and sauté them just before serving to ensure freshness.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pairs well with this dish, adding balance and extra nutrients.

Conclusion

The sautéed rice with ham and shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tender meats and seafood with vibrant vegetables. It’s a versatile recipe that not only satisfies the palate but also serves as an excellent way to use leftover rice, making it both practical and delicious. This dish can easily be adapted to suit personal tastes and available ingredients, ensuring that every preparation can be unique.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Fried Rice

Mix a variety of seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, peas, and carrots, with fried rice to create a colorful and nutritious meal.

Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice

Incorporate diced chicken breast and sweet pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that balances savory and sweet flavors.

Spicy Shrimp and Chorizo Rice

Add spicy chorizo and shrimp for a hearty and flavor-packed dish that brings a Latin-inspired taste to your table.

Mushroom Wild Rice Pilaf

For a vegetarian option, use a blend of wild rice and mushrooms sautéed with onions and garlic, offering an earthy flavor profile.

Teriyaki Beef Rice Bowl

Top your rice with marinated beef in teriyaki sauce, complemented with steamed broccoli and sesame seeds for garnish.