Ham fried rice is one of those simple meals that turns everyday ingredients into something incredibly satisfying. Tender pieces of ham, fluffy rice, colorful vegetables, and scrambled eggs are tossed together in a hot skillet with savory seasonings to create a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. It is perfect for using leftover rice and cooked ham, making it an easy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch that comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Main Essence of This Dish
The secret to great ham fried rice is balance. The salty richness of ham pairs beautifully with the mild flavor of rice, while vegetables add freshness and texture. A touch of soy sauce ties everything together, creating a restaurant-style fried rice that is hearty, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Using cold, day-old rice helps achieve the slightly crisp texture that makes fried rice so irresistible.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked cold rice | 4 cups |
| Cooked ham, diced | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Frozen peas and carrots | 1 cup |
| Green onions, sliced | 4 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
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How to Make Ham Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and pour them into the skillet. Cook while gently stirring until soft scrambled curds form. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in the peas, carrots, and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ham
Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes. This helps the ham develop a slightly caramelized exterior and deepens its flavor.
Step 4: Fry the Rice
Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet. Break apart any clumps with a spatula and stir everything together. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the rice to heat thoroughly and lightly crisp in some spots.
Step 5: Season the Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Sprinkle with black pepper and stir well to evenly coat the rice and ingredients.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and add the sliced green onions. Toss everything together and cook for 1 minute more. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot as a complete meal or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Garnish with extra green onions for added freshness.
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Tips for the Best Ham Fried Rice
- Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture and to prevent mushy fried rice.
- Cook over medium-high to high heat for authentic fried rice flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the rice to steam instead of fry.
- Add a splash of oyster sauce for extra savory depth.
- Customize the recipe with corn, bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Ham fried rice is filling enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs well with egg rolls, stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, sweet and sour dishes, or a simple cucumber salad. It makes a fantastic lunch meal prep option because it reheats beautifully.
Also Read: Grilled BBQ Chicken Recipe
Nutritional Information
The following values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 920mg |
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Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ham fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water or oil until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
