Curry Fried Rice Recipe
Curry Fried Rice is a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines the savory taste of fried rice with the warm, spicy flavors of curry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile. Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide to making restaurant-style Curry Fried Rice at home.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
The ingredients you need to cook delicious Curry Fried Rice Recipe are as follows:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old white or jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, corn)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional for vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for extra color)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Optional protein: diced chicken, tofu, or shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Use day-old rice if possible, as it’s less sticky and fries better.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan.
- Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Tip: You can also blanch harder vegetables like carrots or broccoli for 1–2 minutes before adding them to speed up cooking.
Step 4: Add Eggs or Protein (Optional)
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble gently until fully cooked.
- If using chicken, tofu, or shrimp, cook it thoroughly before adding the rice.
Step 5: Season the Rice
- Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir to combine with vegetables and eggs/protein.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon curry powder and 1 teaspoon turmeric (if using). Stir well to coat the rice evenly.
- Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, chili flakes (if desired), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 6: Stir-Fry Everything
- Increase the heat to medium-high.
- Continuously stir the rice for 3–4 minutes to ensure even cooking and to allow the rice to slightly crisp at the edges.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and stir in chopped green onions.
- Optional: sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Tips for Perfect Curry Fried Rice
- Use cold rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy; day-old rice works best.
- High heat: Stir-fry on medium-high heat to get that slightly crispy texture.
- Customize your vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables or what’s available in your fridge.
- Adjust spices: Curry powder varies in heat—start small and add more to taste.
- Protein options: Tofu, chicken, shrimp, or even leftover cooked meats work beautifully.
- Add coconut milk (optional): For a creamier version, splash a tablespoon of coconut milk at the end.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Curry Fried Rice as a main dish with a side of pickled vegetables or cucumber salad.
- Pair with naan, roti, or papadums for an Indian-inspired meal.
- Top with a fried egg for an extra-rich, satisfying plate.
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