Introduction

Vietnamese fried rice is a delightful twist on the classic dish, often vibrant and full of flavor. The red Vietnamese fried rice is particularly intriguing due to the use of tomato paste, which gives the rice a beautiful hue and a rich taste. Perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish, this recipe captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its balance of ingredients and spices.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Rice (3 cups, cooked and cooled)
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
Soy sauce (3 tablespoons)
Eggs (2, beaten)
Vegetables (1 cup, mixed, such as peas, carrots, and corn)
Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Onion (1 medium, diced)
Green onions (2, chopped)
Cooking oil (2 tablespoons)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking the rice a day in advance. Use fresh jasmine rice, rinse until the water runs clear, then cook it according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a tray to cool before refrigerating overnight.

Gather Your Ingredients

Collect all necessary ingredients including vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. Chop vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and green onions into small pieces for even cooking.

Heat the Wok

Preheat a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the wok is hot before proceeding to the next steps to achieve a nice fry.

Add Oil

Pour in vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the wok. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the chopped vegetables to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to soften them slightly while maintaining some crunch.

Add Proteins

Introduce any proteins you are using, such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to the pan. Stir-fry until they are cooked through.

Add the Rice

Incorporate the chilled rice into the wok. Break up any clumps and ensure even distribution with the vegetables and proteins.

Add Seasonings

Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and any other desired seasonings over the rice. Keep stirring to ensure that the sauces evenly coat the rice and ingredients.

Final Stir-fry

Continue stir-frying the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the rice to heat thoroughly.

Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and add fresh green onions and any other garnish of choice. Serve the fried rice hot in bowls or on plates.

Notes

Rice Preparation

Using day-old rice is crucial as it helps prevent sogginess in the dish. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you prefer such as peas, corn, or snow peas based on availability.

Protein Options

This recipe is versatile; you can use any protein like pork or beef, or opt for a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the fried rice with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking technique used in this recipe to combine the ingredients while maintaining their flavor and texture. It is important to keep the ingredients moving in the pan for even cooking.

Flavor Building

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic to develop a flavorful base. This technique enhances the aroma and adds depth to the fried rice.

Using Cold Rice

Cold, leftover rice is preferred for this dish as it helps achieve the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy, while cold rice separates easily during stir-frying.

High Heat Cooking

Cooking over high heat is essential for achieving that desirable wok hei, or “breath of the wok” flavor, which gives the fried rice its signature taste.

Proper Ingredient Prep

Preparing all ingredients ahead of time ensures a smooth cooking process. Chop vegetables and set everything out before starting to cook.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but for best results, use long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati. Avoid sticky rice varieties as they won’t give the desired texture.

What vegetables can I add?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, carrots, or corn according to your preference or what you have available.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Fried rice stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it great for meal prepping.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit any meat and add more vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.

What type of soy sauce is recommended?

You can use either light soy sauce for a milder flavor or dark soy sauce for a deeper color and richer taste.

Conclusion

This Red Vietnamese Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite Vietnamese recipes, it showcases the versatility of fried rice while elevating it with unique ingredients. Once you try this recipe, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes and enjoy it as a quick and satisfying option any day of the week.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Pair your fried rice with fresh Vietnamese spring rolls for a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. These rolls, filled with shrimp, vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, bring a delightful balance to your meal.

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

Serve alongside grilled lemongrass chicken to enhance the savory notes of your fried rice. The fragrant lemongrass adds an aromatic dimension that complements the dish beautifully.

Sweet and Sour Fish

For a contrasting flavor profile, consider sweet and sour fish. This dish’s tangy sauce will provide a zesty element to your meal, making it a perfect pairing with the rich fried rice.

Vietnamese Banh Mi

Combine your fried rice with a Vietnamese banh mi for an exciting fusion. The crunchy pickled vegetables and savory fillings of the banh mi create a delicious complement to the fried rice.

Herb Salad with Nuoc Cham

A herb salad drizzled with nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) can add a refreshing element to your meal. The herbs’ brightness and the sauce’s tanginess will lighten the dish, balancing the richness of the fried rice.