5 common mistakes people make when cooking fried rice

Fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish loved worldwide. It’s simple to make but easy to mess up without the right techniques. In this article, there are common mistakes people make when cooking fried rice and how to avoid them for a perfectly flavourful dish every time.

1. Inadequate seasoning

Fried rice can taste bland if you forget to season it properly. Many people only rely on soy sauce, which isn’t enough for a well-rounded flavour.

Add other seasonings like oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. Don’t forget a bit of salt to enhance the overall taste.

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2. Overloading the pan

Adding too many ingredients at once cools down the pan, which prevents the rice from getting that desirable smoky, slightly crispy texture.

Cook your ingredients (like vegetables, proteins, and rice) in batches. Ensure the pan stays hot throughout the cooking process.

3. Not pre-cooking ingredients

Putting raw ingredients directly into the pan with rice is a common mistake. This can lead to uneven cooking.

Pre-cook your vegetables, and proteins before mixing them with the rice. This ensures everything is perfectly cooked.

4. Overcooking the vegetables

Do not overcook the vegetables. Overcooking the vegetables is one major mistake people make when cooking fried rice. Doing this will make them lose their crunch and nutrients. Instead, stir-fry vegetables quickly on high heat to keep them crunchy and colourful.

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5. Adding too much oil

Using excessive oil can make fried rice greasy and unhealthy. This is a common mistake in home cooking.

Use just enough oil to coat the rice lightly. Start with a small amount and add more only if necessary.

Making perfect fried rice is all about using the right techniques and avoiding these common mistakes. With a bit of practice, you’ll master the art of creating this dish perfectly.