When it comes to Chinese cuisine, one dish stands out as a favorite among both foodies and casual diners alike – pork fried rice. This delicious and savory dish is a staple in Chinese restaurants around the world, but there’s nothing quite like homemade pork fried rice made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

What Makes Pork Fried Rice Authentic?

Authentic pork fried rice is made with a few key ingredients that give it its unique flavor and texture. These include:

• Long-grain white rice: The key to perfect fried rice is using cooked white rice that has been allowed to cool and dry out slightly. This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy when stir-fried with other ingredients.
• Chinese BBQ pork (char siu): This marinated and roasted pork adds a smoky and sweet flavor to the dish that is hard to replicate with any other type of meat.
• Soy sauce: A necessary component for seasoning the rice and giving it that classic umami flavor.
• Eggs: Scrambled eggs are often added to pork fried rice for added protein and texture.
• Vegetables: Common vegetables used in pork fried rice include peas, carrots, onions, and green onions.
• Sesame oil: This fragrant oil is used to stir-fry the rice and add a nutty flavor to the dish.

How to Make Authentic Pork Fried Rice

Now that you know what goes into authentic pork fried rice, let’s dive into how to make it at home:

1. Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool and dry out while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced Chinese BBQ pork and stir-fry until it starts to caramelize.
3. Push the pork to one side of the wok and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked, then mix them with the pork.
4. Add the cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then add the vegetables and continue to stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and garnish with chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.

Why Pork Fried Rice Is a Crowd-Pleaser

Pork fried rice is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• It’s versatile: Pork fried rice can be served as a main dish or a side dish, making it a great option for any meal.
• It’s easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and a hot wok, you can whip up a batch of delicious pork fried rice in no time.
• It’s customizable: You can easily customize pork fried rice to suit your tastes by adding different vegetables, meats, or seasonings.
• It’s satisfying: With a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, pork fried rice is a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and craving more.

Next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, consider making your own authentic pork fried rice at home. Not only will you impress your friends and family with your cooking skills, but you’ll also enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household.