Adding egg to rice not only enhances its flavor but also boosts its nutritional value. This method is popular in many cuisines around the world, especially in Asian cooking. Here’s how you can cook rice with egg to create a tasty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
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1 cup rice (any variety: jasmine, basmati, long-grain, etc.)
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2 cups water (adjust according to the type of rice)
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2 eggs
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
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1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional additions: chopped vegetables (like peas, carrots, bell peppers), green onions, garlic, and ginger
Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
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Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
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Cook the Rice: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes depending on the type of rice. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Egg and Additional Ingredients
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Beat the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Chop the Onion and Vegetables: If using, finely chop the onion and any other vegetables you want to add.
3. Cook the Eggs and Vegetables
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Heat the Pan: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. If using garlic and ginger, add them and cook for another minute.
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Add the Vegetables: Add any other chopped vegetables and cook until they are tender.
4. Add the Eggs
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Cook the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Let the eggs sit for a few seconds until they start to set, then scramble them gently with a spatula until they are fully cooked.
5. Combine Everything
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Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables and eggs. Stir everything together to combine well.
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Season: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Serve
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Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
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Serve: Serve the egg-fried rice hot as a main dish or a side dish.
Tips
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Leftover Rice: This recipe works best with leftover rice that has been chilled. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
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Protein Addition: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish for extra protein.
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Customize: Feel free to customize the vegetables and seasoning to your taste.
Benefits of Cooking Rice with Egg
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Enhanced Flavor: The egg adds a rich, savory flavor to the rice, making it more delicious.
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Nutritional Boost: Eggs provide high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.
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Versatile: This method can be adapted to include a variety of vegetables and proteins, making it a versatile dish.
Conclusion
Cooking rice with egg is a simple and effective way to transform plain rice into a flavorful and nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish, this method is sure to please. Try this easy recipe and enjoy the delicious combination of rice and egg in your next meal!