Seweryn Dominsky
Fujian Fried Rice: A Culinary Journey from the Coastlines of China to Your Dining Table
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Picture a bustling port town on the southeastern coast of China, where the aroma of fresh seafood mingles with fragrant spices carried from distant lands. This is Fujian Province, where culinary traditions are as diverse as the region itself. Fujian Fried Rice, a dish that embodies this richness, combines the ocean’s bounty with the earth’s harvest to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Known for its subtle yet distinct taste, this rice dish marries the sweetness of shrimp with the earthiness of mushrooms, all enveloped in a hearty embrace of soy sauce and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting solo meal, this dish promises to transport you to a world where every ingredient tells a story of tradition and innovation.
Ingredients
– 2 cups of cold cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 8 ounces of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup of chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup of shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup of peas
– 1/4 cup of carrots, finely diced
– 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, divided
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the ingredients: If using fresh shrimp, ensure they are cleaned and deveined. Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice the shiitake mushrooms and finely dice the carrots. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the proteins: In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and chicken, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the shrimp turn pink and the chicken is no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, heat another 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the mushrooms, peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Cook the rice: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season and combine: Return the cooked shrimp and chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly coated.
6. Add the eggs: Create a well in the center of the rice mixture. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them sit for about 30 seconds, then stir continuously until they are fully cooked and incorporated into the rice.
7. Finish and serve: Stir in the sliced green onions, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Tips and Serving Suggestions
– Cold Rice is Key: Using cold, day-old rice will ensure a better texture in your Fried Rice, preventing it from becoming mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook fresh rice and let it cool completely in the refrigerator before using.
– Protein Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap the shrimp and chicken with other proteins like pork, tofu, or beef for a different twist.
– Vegetable Additions: Enhance this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or baby corn for extra color and nutrition.
– Pairing Suggestions: Fujian Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with a light green tea, which complements the savory taste of the soy sauce and the sweetness of the seafood.
– Perfect for Occasions: This dish is ideal for a casual family dinner or a special occasion meal, offering a taste of the comforting and traditional flavors of Chinese home cooking.
Enjoy bringing this vibrant and flavorful Fujian Fried Rice to your dining table, where every bite tells a story of tradition and creativity.
