Easy Ham Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re for a ham fried rice recipe you’ve come to the right place!

The recipe includes easy. Step-by-step instructions to help you make it.

Why Do We Love Ham Fried Rice?

Ham fried rice is a favorite because it’s delicious, easy to make, and full of flavor. The mix of salty ham, soft rice, and tasty seasonings creates a perfect dish. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and can be customized with vegetables and eggs. Plus, it’s quick to cook, making it perfect for busy days. Whether for lunch or dinner, ham fried rice is always a satisfying meal!

What Is Ham Fried Rice?

Ham fried rice is a simple and tasty dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with ham, eggs, vegetables, and seasonings. The ham adds a salty, smoky flavor, while the eggs and veggies make it colorful and nutritious. It’s a popular meal because it’s easy to prepare and a great way to use up leftover rice. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious and filling dish in no time!

Ingredients

Ham-fried rice requires simple ingredients that add flavor and texture.

Main Ingredients

• Cooked rice – Cold rice from the refrigerator works best. It prevents sticking and creates the right texture.
• Leftover ham – Adds a savory taste and makes good use of leftovers.
• Vegetables – Onions, green onions, carrots, and peas provide color and balance.
• Soy sauce – Gives salty and umami flavor. Gluten-free soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
• Sesame oil – Adds a rich, nutty aroma.
• Salt and pepper – Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Eggs – Scramble separately before mixing into the rice mixture for even distribution.

Substitutes for Dietary Preferences

• Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free soy sauce.
• Rice choices – White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice can be used based on preference.
• Protein alternatives – Replace leftover ham with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

These simple ingredients create a great recipe that comes together quickly and works as a main dish or side dish.

Best Type of Rice for Fried Rice

Leftover rice is important for the right texture. Fresh rice is too moist and can become sticky. Cold rice from the refrigerator is firmer and fries better.

Which Rice Works Best?

• Long grain rice – Stays separate and fries evenly.
• Short grain rice – Can become sticky and clump together.
• Jasmine rice – It has a light fragrance but may be softer than other types.
• Brown rice – A healthier alternative with more fiber and a firmer texture.

How to Prevent Clumps

• Use leftover rice that has been chilled for several hours.
• If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool in the refrigerator.
• Break up any clumps before adding rice to the pan.

Using the right rice helps the fried rice recipe cook properly and come together with the best texture.

Cooking Equipment: Skillet, Wok, or Pan? 

Choosing the right cookware affects how ham fried rice cooks.

Wok vs. Large Skillet

• Wok – Heats quickly and evenly. The sloped sides allow easy tossing and fast cooking.
• Large skillet – Works well if a wok is unavailable. A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet prevents uneven cooking.

How Heat Distribution Affects Texture

• A wok provides high, even heat, which keeps the rice mixture from getting soggy.
• A large skillet retains heat but may require more stirring to prevent sticking.

Best Practices for a Nonstick Skillet

• Use sesame oil for better frying.
• Keep heat at medium-high for even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding to let rice lightly brown.

The right cookware helps the fried rice recipe cook evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fried Rice 

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

• Dice the leftover ham into small pieces.
• Chop the onion, green onions, and carrots into uniform sizes.
• If using frozen peas, thaw them before cooking.

Step 2: Heat Oil and Cook Eggs

• Heat one tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Beat the eggs in a bowl.
• Pour the eggs into the hot pan and let them cook for a few seconds.
• Stir gently until they are just set.
• Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Ham and Vegetables

• Add another tablespoon of sesame oil to the pan.
• Add the leftover ham, carrot, onion, and peas.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the ham is lightly browned.
• Remove the mixture from the pan and set it aside with the eggs.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

• Add another tablespoon of sesame oil to the pan.
• Add the cold rice from the refrigerator.
• Toss the rice every 30 seconds to prevent clumping.
• Fry for about 3-4 minutes until the grains separate and become slightly crispy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return the ham, vegetables, and eggs to the pan.
• Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and mix well.
• Stir continuously until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.
• Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

This fried rice recipe comes together quickly and is a great way to use leftover rice and ham. Serve immediately as a main dish or side dish.

Check out: French onion rice recipe

Variations and Customizations 

Ham fried rice is flexible and can be adjusted based on preference or dietary needs.

Protein Options

• Replace leftover ham with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Chicken adds a mild flavor and works well with soy sauce.
• Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with sesame oil.
• Tofu makes a vegetarian version while keeping a similar texture.

Additional Vegetables

• Add bell peppers for a slight crunch.
• Use asparagus for a fresh, earthy taste.
• Try broccoli for more fiber and nutrients.

Making It Gluten-Free

• Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
• Check all ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free.

Serving as a Side Dish

• Serve with Kung Pao Chicken or other Chinese food dishes.
• Use as a side dish for stir-fries or grilled meats.

Storing and Reheating Tips 

Proper storage keeps ham fried rice fresh and prevents sogginess.

Best Way to Store

• Let the rice cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container to keep moisture out.

How Long It Lasts

• Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Freezing Tips

• Divide into portion-sized bags for easy reheating.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Without Making Rice Mushy

• Skillet method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil, then stir-fry for a few minutes.
• Microwave method: Place rice in a bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals.

These methods keep the fried rice recipe from becoming too soft while restoring texture.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Avoid these mistakes to make the best ham fried rice:

• Using freshly cooked rice – Always use cold rice from the refrigerator to prevent stickiness.
• Not using high heat – A hot wok or large skillet is needed for proper frying.
• Overloading with sauce – Too much soy sauce makes the rice mixture soggy. Add gradually.
• Not stirring frequently – Stir every 30 seconds to prevent clumps and ensure even cooking.

Following these tips helps the fried rice recipe come together with the right texture.

Serving Suggestions 

Ham fried rice works as a side dish or main course.

• As a side dish – Serve with Chinese food like dumplings or egg rolls.
• With Kung Pao Chicken – The mild rice balances the bold, spicy flavors.
• With stir-fried vegetables – Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots add freshness.
• As a main dish – Add extra protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a full meal.

This great recipe pairs well with many dishes and comes together quickly.

Conclusion 

Ham fried rice is a great way to use leftover rice and create a quick, flavorful meal. Using cold rice ensures the best texture, while a hot wok or skillet prevents sticking. Customize with different proteins and vegetables to suit your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat properly to maintain quality.

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