Make Fried Rice & Use Up Leftovers

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Make delicious fried rice and use up leftover meat and vegetables. Plus this secret ingredient adds the restaurant flavor you love!

two white bowls with fried rice on wood table

Fried rice is a family favorite, and it’s so easy to make.

We call this “Loaded” Fried Rice because it’s loaded full of meats and veggies. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge without anyone knowing they’re eating leftovers!

It cooks up best when you use day old (not freshly made) rice. I make a big batch of rice in my Instant Pot and freeze it in zip bags to make a speedy meal.

two white bowls with fried rice on wood table

two white bowls with fried rice on wood table

Fried Rice Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make delicious fried rice and use up leftover meat and vegetables. Plus this secret ingredient adds the restaurant flavor you love!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1/2 pound uncooked bacon
  • 2 eggs (optional)
  • Soy sauce to taste
  • Up to 4 cups veggies and meats. Go crazy! Here are some things we put in our rice:
  • leftover carnitas
  • that last piece of chicken that nobody can finish
  • cooked shrimp
  • zucchini
  • carrots
  • celery
  • bok choi
  • mushrooms
  • onions
  • spinach

Instructions

    Cut your bacon into chunks and put it into a wok or big frypan on medium heat. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy.

    Scoop the bacon out and keep the drippings in the pan. (This is critical! It's where all the amazing flavor comes from.)

    Dice your veggies and stir-fry them in the bacon drippings until they're almost done. Carrots and celery will take longer; zucchini and mushrooms only need a minute or two. Chop up the meat and add it in (bacon too).

    Plop the rice in the wok and stir everything together gently. Splash in a bit of soy sauce and taste.

    Once everything is warm, it's time to add the eggs. Mix them in a separate bowl like you're making scrambled eggs.

    Move the rice and veggies to the sides of the wok, so the hottest part in the center is open. Pour the eggs in and cook, stirring, until almost set. Then mix them into the rice until well incorporated.

    You're done! Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a bit of color.

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Hi, Im Pam!

I created Brown Thumb Mama to share my natural living journey, and help you live a greener life. Thanks for being here!

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