 Traditional Mandarin Fried Rice
I’m passionate about
fried rice: it’s the first real dish I ever made. This traditional
version contains Chinese sausage, ginger, garlic, and softly cooked egg.
Peas don’t belong in this authentic recipe, though their use has become
almost automatic even among Chinese. Use day-old or leftover rice for
this, as freshly made rice gets mushy when it’s stir-fried. If you must
use fresh-made rice, “dry” it by spreading it on a baking sheet and
putting it in the freezer until cool, 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons canola oil
3 eggs, beaten lightly
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh ginger
1 la chang (Chinese sausage), cut into 1/8-inch dice, or 4 strips cooked
bacon, crumbled
1 bunch scallions, white and green parts chopped and reserved separately
5 cups cold cooked rice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Salt, if needed
Directions
1. Heat a wok or large
nonstick skillet over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the oil and swirl to
coat the pan. When the oil shimmers, add the eggs, which will puff up.
Allow to set about 5 seconds, and using a wok spatula or similar tool,
push the sides of the egg mass toward the center to allow uncooked egg to
reach the pan and solidify. Flip the mass, allow it to set, about 5
seconds, and slide it onto a dish; do not over cook. With the edge of the
spatula, break the eggs into small pieces. Set aside.
2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of the oil to the wok and swirl to coat
the pan. When the oil shimmers, add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry
until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the la chang, the white parts of the
scallions, and the rice and toss thoroughly until heated through. Add the
soy sauce, pepper, and reserved eggs and toss. Correct the seasoning,
adding the salt if necessary, transfer to a platter, and garnish with the
scallion greens. Serve immediately.
Ming's Tip: The eggs will be done very quickly. Keep an eye
on them to make sure they don't brown or dry out.
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