Pork Fried Rice
A takeout classic made at home! This dish features fluffy day-old rice, tender pieces of pork, scrambled eggs, and crisp vegetables, all stir-fried in a savory soy sauce blend. Ready in under 30 minutes for a perfect weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- b.Ensure all vegetables are chopped, pork is cubed, and eggs are beaten in a small bowl.
- c.In another small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Pork
- b.Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or non-stick skillet over high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the cubed pork and season with salt and white pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the pork is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C).
- d.Remove the cooked pork from the wok and set it aside on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Scramble the Eggs
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-high. Add another 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the same wok.
- c.Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, stirring gently, until they form soft curds, about 1-2 minutes.
- d.Break the eggs into small pieces with your spatula and transfer them to the plate with the pork.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics
- b.Add the remaining 1.5 tablespoons of oil to the wok and return to high heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
- e.Stir in the thawed peas and carrots and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish the Fried Rice
- b.Add the chilled, day-old rice to the wok with the vegetables. Use your spatula to press and break up any large clumps.
- c.Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, tossing constantly to heat the rice evenly and lightly toast the grains.
- d.Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the rice and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- e.Return the cooked pork and scrambled eggs to the wok. Add most of the sliced scallions, reserving some for garnish.
- f.Stir-fry for 1-2 more minutes until everything is well combined and piping hot.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Garnish with the remaining scallions and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Day-old, cold rice is essential. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in gummy fried rice.
- 2Use high heat to get a good sear and that classic 'wok hei' flavor. Keep the ingredients moving to prevent burning.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan. If your skillet isn't large enough, cook the components in batches as instructed.
- 4Break up rice clumps with your hands or a spatula before adding it to the wok for more even cooking.
- 5Prepare all your ingredients (mise en place) before you start cooking, as the stir-frying process is very fast.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the pork with diced chicken breast, shrimp, or firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Vegetable Add insVegetable Add-ins
Incorporate other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, bean sprouts, or mushrooms. Add them along with the onions.
Spicy VersionSpicy Version
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Fried RiceVegetarian Fried Rice
Omit the pork and use cubed firm tofu or edamame. Use a vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom-based stir-fry sauce.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Complete Protein
The combination of pork and eggs provides all nine essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and building tissues in the body.
Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
Rice is a primary source of complex carbohydrates, which the body uses as its main fuel source, providing sustained energy for daily activities and brain function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork is an excellent source of B vitamins, particularly thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), and B6, which are essential for converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Pork Fried Rice contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used, such as the fat content of the pork and the amount of oil.