Authentic Thai Jasmine Fried Rice
Experience the flavors of Thailand with this Authentic Thai Jasmine Fried Rice, a cherished recipe inspired by my mother's culinary expertise. This dish captures the essence of traditional Thai cooking, featuring perfectly stir-fried cold jasmine rice, tender meats, and a balance of savory sauces. Unlike the spicy or fruity variations often found in restaurants, this classic rendition highlights the rich umami of Thai fish sauce complemented by the sweetness of palm sugar. The addition of fresh vegetables like green onions and a hint of sesame oil enhances its authenticity. Best served with a side of Nam Prik Nam Pla Sauce Recipe #92042 for a delightful kick, this dish effortlessly brings the comfort of home cooking to your dinner table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked cold jasmine rice
4 cups (Make sure it is chilled to prevent clumping.)
peanut oil
3 tablespoons (None)
freshly minced garlic
4 cloves (Mince finely.)
lean pork or beef
1 1/2 cups (Thinly sliced, preferably when partially frozen for ease.)
eggs
2 (Beaten lightly.)
green onions
4 (Sliced thin.)
palm sugar
2 teaspoons (Can substitute with table sugar if not available.)
Thai fish sauce
3 tablespoons (No substitutes.)
oyster sauce
1 tablespoon (None)
frozen peas
3/4 cup (Optional, thawed.)
cucumber
1 (Sliced for garnish.)
limes
2 (Cut into wedges for serving.)
Instructions
1
Begin by heating peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, use your hands to fluff and separate the cold jasmine rice to ensure the grains are loose and unsticky.
2
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3
Introduce the thinly sliced pork or beef to the wok, cooking for approximately 1 minute until it's just cooked through. Push the meat and garlic to the sides of the wok, creating a well in the center.
4
Crack the eggs into the well and scramble them for about 1 minute until softly set. Gradually incorporate the scrambled eggs into the meat and garlic mixture, then add the sliced green onions and frozen peas, stir-frying for an additional minute.
5
Now, add the cold rice to the wok. Gently turn the rice over with the other ingredients for 2-3 minutes, ensuring an even distribution while allowing the rice to toast slightly for enhanced flavor.
6
If necessary, increase the heat to maintain a sizzling temperature. Sprinkle in the palm sugar, followed by the fish sauce and oyster sauce. Stir-fry everything together for an extra minute until the sauces are well absorbed and the mixture is evenly combined.
7
Transfer the fried rice to a serving platter, arranging it neatly. For a decorative touch, garnish the edges with sliced cucumber, lime wedges, and additional whole green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines Authentic Thai Jasmine Fried Rice?
It is a classic Thai dish that uses cold jasmine rice, Thai fish sauce, and palm sugar to create a savory-sweet flavor profile without being overly spicy.
Which type of rice should be used for this recipe?
Jasmine rice is the ideal choice for its fragrance and texture.
Why is it important to use cold rice?
Using cold rice prevents the grains from clumping together and becoming mushy during the stir-frying process.
What proteins are recommended for this fried rice?
The recipe suggests using 1 1/2 cups of thinly sliced lean pork or beef.
What is the primary savory ingredient in the sauce?
Thai fish sauce is the main savory component, providing a rich umami flavor.
Can I substitute the Thai fish sauce?
The recipe specifies no substitutes for the Thai fish sauce to maintain its authentic flavor.
What can I use if palm sugar is unavailable?
You can substitute palm sugar with standard table sugar if necessary.
How do I prepare the rice before putting it in the pan?
Use your hands to fluff and separate the cold jasmine rice grains so they are loose and unsticky.
What type of oil is best for cooking this dish?
Peanut oil is recommended for its high smoke point and flavor.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 cloves of freshly minced garlic.
When should the eggs be added to the wok?
Crack the eggs into a well in the center of the wok after the meat is cooked, then scramble them.
What vegetables are included in this fried rice?
This version includes green onions and frozen peas.
How long does it take to stir-fry the meat?
The sliced pork or beef should be cooked for approximately 1 minute until just cooked through.
What does oyster sauce add to the recipe?
Oyster sauce adds depth and a savory-sweet richness to the overall flavor profile.
How do I ensure the meat is sliced thinly?
Slicing the meat while it is partially frozen makes it much easier to get thin, even slices.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this classic version focuses on umami and sweetness rather than heat, though it can be served with spicy sauce on the side.
What garnishes are typically used?
Common garnishes include sliced cucumber, lime wedges, and extra whole green onions.
What side sauce is recommended for extra heat?
It is best served with Nam Prik Nam Pla Sauce for those who want an extra spicy kick.
How long should I stir-fry the rice after adding it?
Gently turn the rice with the other ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes to allow it to toast slightly.
What is the purpose of the frozen peas?
Frozen peas add color and a slight pop of sweetness, though they are listed as optional.
How many eggs does the recipe require?
The recipe uses 2 lightly beaten eggs.
How much rice is needed for this dish?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of cooked, chilled jasmine rice.
How should the green onions be prepared?
You should thinly slice 4 green onions for the stir-fry.
When are the seasonings added?
Sprinkle in the sugar, fish sauce, and oyster sauce after the rice has been incorporated and toasted.
What kind of cooking vessel is best?
A wok is ideal for high-heat stir-frying, but a large skillet can also be used.
How much palm sugar is used?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of palm sugar.
How should the garlic be cooked?
Stir-fry the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it is fragrant and lightly golden.
What provides the acidity for the dish?
Lime wedges served on the side allow diners to add fresh acidity to their liking.
How do you achieve a sizzling temperature?
If necessary, increase the heat after adding the rice to maintain a high temperature that helps toast the grains.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Yes, it is described as an easy dinner and a comfort food that brings home cooking to the table effortlessly.