Thai Fried Rice, known as “Khao Pad” in Thailand, is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine in one bowl. This simple yet flavorful dish combines fragrant jasmine rice with a blend of savory sauces, fresh vegetables, and your choice of protein. Whether you’re a fan of chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp, Khao Pad is versatile enough to satisfy any palate. The addition of gai lan (Chinese broccoli) and a touch of chili brings a unique depth to the dish, making it both comforting and exciting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, Thai Fried Rice is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Thailand.
Ingrendients
- 2 cups jasmine rice cold, day old rice
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 12 ounces protein of your choice chicken, beef, pork, or shrimps
- 2 stalks gai lan also known as Chinese broccoli
- ¼ large yellow onion diced
- ½ beefsteak tomato core removed and cut into wedges (also known as Hothouse tomato) ▢1 stalk green onion sliced
- ½ tablespoon garlic minced (about 1 clove)
- 1 bird’s eye chili sliced (optional for heat; use more or less to your preference)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- ½ tablespoon soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper more or less to your preference
- Salt as needed to season protein
- Oil as needed for cooking (any neutral cooking oil) To serve (optional):
- Cucumber sliced
- Cilantro roughly chopped
- Lime cut into wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by cooking your protein of choice (chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp) if it’s not pre-cooked. Season the protein with a pinch of salt and a little black pepper, then cook in a hot pan with a bit of oil until fully cooked. Set aside.
- Dice the yellow onion, slice the green onion, and cut the beefsteak tomato into wedges. Mince the garlic and slice the bird’s eye chili if using. Prepare the gai lan by chopping it into bite-sized pieces, separating the stems from the leafy parts.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In a large wok or skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced yellow onion.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion is translucent and the garlic releases its aroma.
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Push the garlic and onion to one side of the wok.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space, allowing them to cook undisturbed for a few seconds.
- Then, gently scramble the eggs until they are just set but still soft.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped gai lan stems to the wok, stir-frying for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Then, add the leafy parts of the gai lan, the tomato wedges, and the sliced green onion.
- Continue to stir-fry for another minute.
- Incorporate the Rice and Protein:
- Add the cold, day-old jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with your spatula.
- Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly mixed with the eggs, vegetables, and aromatics.
- Season the Rice:
- Pour the fish sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce over the rice mixture. Sprinkle with black pepper to taste.
- Stir-fry everything for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the sauces.
- If you like a bit of heat, add the sliced bird’s eye chili now.
- Serve the Thai Fried Rice:
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the wok from the heat. Transfer the Thai fried rice to serving plates.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve your Khao Pad with slices of cucumber, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while a squeeze of lime brightens up the dish. Enjoy your homemade Thai Fried Rice with the authentic flavors of Thailand right at your table.
Conclusion:
Thai Fried Rice, or Khao Pad, is a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and flavor. With its fragrant jasmine rice, tender protein, and a medley of fresh vegetables, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. The savory blend of fish sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce gives the dish its signature umami flavor, while the optional chili adds a pleasant kick. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for family and friends, this authentic recipe will bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen, offering a delightful culinary escape in every bite. Enjoy this versatile and delicious dish, and make it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
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