Every time I make this Ham Fried Rice, it reminds me of the simple joys of family gatherings. When I was raising my kids, this dish was a staple in our home. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the ingredients were always easy to find. I can still picture the kids running around the kitchen, their excited chatter mixing with the comforting smell of savory ham and vegetables sizzling away. If you've ever found yourself longing for a meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, I promise this recipe will do just that. You’ll feel that same warmth and comfort as you share it with your own family.
How to Make Ham Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice, chilled: Using chilled rice is crucial because it helps the grains stay separate during cooking. Leftover rice from the day before works perfectly!
- 1 cup diced ham: I love using leftover ham from holiday dinners, but you can also use store-bought diced ham for convenience.
- 2 eggs, beaten: These provide a lovely richness and help bind everything together.
- 1/2 cup chopped cabbage: Adding cabbage offers a delightful crunch and boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This adds saltiness and umami, giving the fried rice that delicious savory taste.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A splash of sesame oil at the end gives it a lovely fragrance and richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for seasoning! And don’t forget to adjust it to your liking.
- Optional: green onions for garnish: I love the fresh flavor they add on top—so vibrant and lovely!
Cooking Steps
1. Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, gather all your ingredients. It makes the cooking process feel so much smoother, and you won’t be running around like a chicken with its head cut off.
2. Prepare Your Rice
Make sure your rice is chilled and ready to go. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool.
3. Heat Up the Skillet
Warm up a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. I always find that a wok gives you ample space for everything.
4. Cook the Ham
Add a bit of oil, then toss in your diced ham. Sauté it until it's lightly browned and becomes fragrant. This moment is blissful! If your kids or grandkids come running in, don’t be surprised!
5. Scramble the Eggs
Now, push the ham to the side of the pan, add your beaten eggs, and scramble them until just set. Make sure to break them up into small pieces as they cook.
6. Add Aromatics
Once the eggs are scrambled, it’s time to add the minced garlic and chopped cabbage. Cook them together until the cabbage becomes tender-crisp. The smell will fill your kitchen, and you may find yourself getting a bit nostalgic!
7. Combine the Rice
Now we’re adding in the star of the show—your chilled rice! Stir it all up gently; you want to mix everything without smashing the rice or making it mushy.
8. Season It Up
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, adding salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve
Finally, if you choose to, sprinkle some green onions on top. Trust me; they make the dish look inviting!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes Ham Fried Rice special to me is not just its taste, but the memories tied to it. Cooking this meal brings back a flood of warmth from cozy family nights. It’s simple yet satisfying, and it celebrates the leftovers from the holiday meals and brings them back to life. It’s a reminder that nothing in the kitchen should go to waste, and you can create something wholesome and delicious with just a few ingredients.
What You’ll Need
Apart from the ingredients mentioned, you’ll also need a good, large skillet or wok—trust me, it's key to achieving that nice, even fry. You'll also want a spatula to stir everything around. Having all your utensils ready means you can focus on enjoying the process rather than stressing over looking for a spoon!
Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick recap of the steps I follow:
- Gather your ingredients.
- Prepare your rice.
- Heat up the skillet.
- Cook the ham.
- Scramble the eggs.
- Add garlic and cabbage.
- Combine with rice.
- Season it up.
- Garnish and serve!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Chill Your Rice: This is a game-changer! If you forget to chill the rice, your fried rice could end up being mushy.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time with each step. Letting the ham brown adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Sometimes, I sneak in frozen peas or carrots, depending on what’s in my fridge. You can never have too many veggies!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Ham Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but I often like to serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp salad. If I’m feeling extra fancy, I might whip up a simple homemade sweet and sour sauce to drizzle on top! It adds a lovely contrast to the savory flavors in the fried rice.
Leftovers
Now, let’s be honest; sometimes we make way more than we need. The good news? This dish stores beautifully! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll be good for about three to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the microwave or give them a quick stir in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll enjoy the same deliciousness without all the work!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds so much nutrition. Just remember that it might take a little longer to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly.
What if I don’t have any ham?
No worries! You can use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option. Adaptability is the name of the game in cooking!
Can I freeze Ham Fried Rice?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before going into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Ham Fried Rice recipe has become a cherished meal in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it. I know you'll love the comforting taste and how easy it is to whip up on a busy day. Each bite is like a warm hug from your kitchen! So give it a shot, and I hope your family loves it as much as mine does. Don’t forget to share your experience with me—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!