Fried rice is a universally loved dish known for its versatility and convenience. It’s a perfect way to transform leftover rice into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Today, we’re adding a nutritious twist to the classic fried rice recipe by incorporating bacon, eggs, and fresh spinach. The smokiness of bacon, the richness of eggs, and the vibrant freshness of spinach come together to create a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. This Bacon, Egg, and Spinach Fried Rice is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any time of the day, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups of jasmine rice, cooked and chilled (or any long-grain variety)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of either vegetable oil or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the bacon and onion, roughly chop the spinach, mince the garlic, and beat the eggs in a small bowl. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth and quick process, as fried rice comes together rapidly.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Warm a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced bacon to the pan and cook it until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan for added flavor.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
In the same pan, pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Stir continuously until the eggs are just set but still soft, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set them aside with the bacon.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the vegetable oil or olive oil to the pan, and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
5. Add the Rice:
Increase the heat to medium-high, and add the cooked and cooled rice to the pan. Stir the rice continuously for about 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. The goal is to ensure that the rice is evenly heated and begins to crisp slightly at the edges.
6. Incorporate Spinach and Bacon:
Add the chopped spinach to the pan, stirring constantly until the spinach wilts down, about 1-2 minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, return the cooked bacon and scrambled eggs to the pan.
7. Season the Fried Rice:
Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the rice is well-coated with the sauces. Taste the fried rice and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
8. Serve:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the fried rice from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, aromatic touch. Serve the Bacon, Egg, and Spinach Fried Rice hot, either as a main dish or a hearty side.
Conclusion
Bacon, Egg, and Spinach Fried Rice is a delicious and balanced dish that brings together the rich flavors of bacon, the creaminess of eggs, and the freshness of spinach in a satisfying, one-pan meal. It’s a versatile dish that works wonderfully for any meal of the day, providing both protein and greens in every bite. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or just want to whip up something quick and flavorful, this fried rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious dish with your family and friends!