Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice may very well be one of the most delightful dishes in my cooking arsenal. It’s a harmonious blend of tender grains, savory ham, and vibrant vegetables, all kissed by the comforting warmth of soy sauce and sesame oil. The dish is filled with delightful textures and flavors that evoke memories of sharing meals with loved ones after a long day. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and allows you to make the most of leftover ham and rice, a duo that often gets passed over in the kitchen.

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The first time I made ham fried rice, I was searching for a quick and easy way to whip up dinner without breaking a sweat. I had some leftover ham and rice from the previous day’s feast, and voila! This simple yet satisfying meal came to life in less time than it takes to order takeout. From weeknight dinners to weekend brunches, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s just waiting to find a place on your table. So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this comforting and delicious dish together—you’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: On a busy weeknight? You can whip this up in just about 30 minutes!
• Irresistible Flavor: With the umami kick from soy sauce and nuttiness from sesame oil, each bite is a flavor explosion.
• Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors from the veggies make this fried rice as inviting as it is tasty.
• Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a party snack!
• Budget-Friendly: Make use of leftover ingredients while creating something fabulous.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 teaspoons vegetable oil: Ideal for frying, it has a high smoke point that works perfectly in this dish. Can substitute with canola or sunflower oil if needed.
• 2 cups ham, cut into 1/2 inch pieces: Any leftover cooked ham works wonderfully; it provides a savory bite. Diced turkey or chicken can be used for a twist!
• 2/3 cup onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the fried rice. Consider using green onions for a milder flavor if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup carrots, peeled, quartered, and sliced: Their natural sweetness balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Frozen peas can also be used here—just toss them in last.
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed: These little powerhouses boost the color and nutrients in your dish. Fresh peas can also work, just blanch them first!
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: A key flavor booster that lends fragrance and warmth to your dish.
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Adds protein and creaminess—scramble them up for an extra layer of deliciousness.
• 3 cups cooked long grain white rice: Day-old rice is perfect for this recipe; it’s drier and prevents clumpiness. Jasmine or basmati rice can also add lovely aromas to your dish.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium: Controls the saltiness while still giving those savory notes. If gluten-free, opt for tamari.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: This adds a nutty richness that can’t be replaced. You can lessen the amount for a lighter flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings enhance all the flavors and bring everything together.
• 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced: A fresh, crunchy finish that brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Ham Fried Rice

1. Heat the Oil: Start by heating 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect fried rice texture.
2. Brown the Ham: Once the oil is shimmering, layer the ham in the pan in a single even spread. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy and browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Keep Warm: Remove the ham from the pan and transfer it to a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prep the veggies.
4. Cook the Veggies: Pour 1 teaspoon of oil into the same pan, then add the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they are beautifully softened. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and pepper!
5. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
6. Combine & Cover: Remove the veggies from the pan and add them to the plate holding the ham, covering it again to keep it warm.
7. Scramble the Eggs: Pour the remaining teaspoon of oil into the pan, then add the beaten eggs. Cook and stir constantly for about 3 minutes or until the eggs are fully scrambled and lightly golden, seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Mix Everything: Now add the rice, ham, veggies, and thawed peas into the pan. Stir gently to combine all those wonderful ingredients.
9. Add the Sauces: Drizzle in the low-sodium soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until everything is thoroughly combined and warmed through.
10. Finish & Serve: Toss in the sliced green onions right before serving. Enjoy your delicious ham fried rice with a lovely crunch and vibrant flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Ham fried rice can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and it will hold up for three months. Reheat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, adding a bit of soy sauce to rejuvenate its flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

• Make sure your rice is cold and day-old for the best texture—this prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
• Keep the heat high while cooking; this allows for a little bit of browning on the ingredients, enhancing flavors.
• If you’re short on time, pre-chop your veggies and proteins ahead of time.
• For a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the frying rice.
• Feel free to improvise! This dish is incredibly forgiving; toss in whatever leftovers you have on hand.

Ham fried rice is just one of those recipes that can easily become a family favorite. It’s quick, fantastic at using leftovers, and absolutely delicious whether you serve it hot or have it cold straight from the fridge. Feel free to experiment with different proteins or veggies—even adding in a unique sauce can transform the flavor profile. The joy of cooking lies in trying new things, so don’t hesitate to put your spin on this dish!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be a great healthy alternative, but keep in mind that it may need slightly longer to heat up and could alter the texture a bit, making it chewier.

What vegetables can I add to ham fried rice?

You can add just about any vegetable you love! Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli are all excellent choices. Simply chop them up and sauté them along with the onions and carrots.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being mushy?

The key to preventing mushy fried rice is using leftover, cold rice that isn’t sticky. If you’re using fresh rice, spread it out on a plate and let it cool for a while before cooking.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Just skip the ham and add more vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for that delightful texture. You can also use a plant-based soy sauce alternative to keep it vegan.

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