Breakfast Fried Rice

Our easy Breakfast Fried Rice recipe brings together hearty sausage, flavorful veggies, and fluffy scrambled eggs for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a cozy brunch with friends, this recipe delivers incredible taste in just 30 minutes. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Breakfast Fried Rice comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Flavor Packed: With the savory taste of beef sausage and fresh vegetables, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use up leftover rice and veggies, turning them into a delicious breakfast treat.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or brunches, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Breakfast Fried Rice.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large non-stick skillet: Ensures that the rice doesn’t stick while cooking and allows for even heating.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all your ingredients before cooking, making the process more organized.
• Spatula: Helps in stirring and flipping ingredients efficiently without damaging them.

Ingredients

For our delicious Breakfast Fried Rice, gather the following ingredients:

Meats

• 5 oz Canadian bacon, chopped into pieces
• ½ lb beef sausage, crumbled

Vegetables

• ½ bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 small white onion, diced
• 1/3 cup frozen peas

Eggs & Seasoning

• 5 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced

Rice & Sauce

• 5 cups cooked and chilled rice, preferably short-grain white rice
• 4-5 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook Meats

Add the Canadian bacon in a single layer to a large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes. Stir and cook undisturbed for another minute. Remove to a large bowl. Next, add the beef sausage to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, crumbling it into small pieces until browned. Remove it to the bowl with Canadian bacon.

Step 2: Sauté Veggies

If there’s no grease left in the pan from the meat, add 1 tablespoon of oil or butter. Add the diced veggies to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté over medium-high heat until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds before removing everything to the same bowl.

Step 3: Scramble Eggs

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, pour in beaten eggs and cook until scrambled, stirring occasionally. Remove scrambled eggs to the bowl with meats and veggies.

Step 4: Fry Rice

Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, add chilled rice, spreading it into an even layer. Cook over medium-high heat while allowing it to crisp slightly, stirring every minute or so. Add green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil; toss everything together.

Step 5: Combine

Return all ingredients from the bowl back to the pan with rice. Toss gently to combine everything well. Taste your breakfast fried rice and season with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.

Now you’re ready to serve your flavorful Breakfast Fried Rice! Enjoy this delightful dish any time of day!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family breakfast or a cozy brunch with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro or Chives: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or chives on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Basil: Add Thai basil for a unique twist that complements the rice beautifully.

Accompanying Sauces

• Chili Sauce: Drizzle some chili sauce over the rice for an added kick.
• Soy Sauce: Offer soy sauce on the side for those who prefer more seasoning.

Adding Protein

• Fried Egg: Top each serving with a sunny-side-up egg for extra richness and protein.
• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside sliced grilled chicken for a heartier meal option.

How to Perfect Breakfast Fried Rice

Perfecting your Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, day-old rice prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
• High Heat Cooking: Fry the rice over high heat to achieve that delicious crispy texture on the outside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to allow each ingredient to sear properly, enhancing flavor.
• Season as You Go: Season each component while cooking to build layers of flavor throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Breakfast Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Breakfast Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast to the savory fried rice.
2. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain toast complements the rice’s flavors and adds healthy fats.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the fried rice.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing gives a refreshing crunch and tanginess to your meal.
5. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup pairs nicely, providing comfort alongside your fried rice.
6. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls add texture and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce or chili sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common mistakes can prevent your Breakfast Fried Rice from turning out perfect. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice releases moisture, making it sticky. Always use chilled, previously cooked rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary for even frying.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season at different stages will result in bland rice. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go for maximum flavor.
• Not letting the rice crisp: Stirring too often can prevent the rice from getting crispy. Allow it to sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes during cooking.
• Inadequate meat cooking: Ensure that meat is fully cooked before adding vegetables and eggs. Undercooked meat can ruin the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Breakfast Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date.

Reheating Breakfast Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Breakfast Fried Rice:

What type of rice is best for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Short-grain white rice is ideal as it holds its shape well and has a pleasant texture when fried.

Can I add other proteins to my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins for variety.

How do I make my Breakfast Fried Rice spicier?

Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to enhance the heat level.

Is this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and makes an excellent meal prep option for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect for any taste. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful start to your day!