Quick and Easy Meal
Here are the top reasons why we love this recipe:
- Quick and easy meal – ready in about 30 minutes.
- A great way to use up leftover rice and ham.
- Perfect for the whole family – adjust the amount of sauce and vegetables to your taste.
- Easily make it meat-free by omitting the ham.
Top 5 tips for the perfect fried rice
Follow these five tips for easier preparation:
- Use chilled rice - freshly cooked rice is too soft and will stick together. It’s best to use rice cooked a few hours earlier, or even one or two days in advance. Choosing the right type of rice is also important – use long-grain rice (we used the Zlato Polje brand).
- Don’t stir too much while cooking - when frying, let the rice sit in the pan for a few seconds to develop a slightly crispy texture.
- Heat the pan well - a properly heated pan and oil help prevent sticking and give the rice a nice golden-brown color.
- Add the sauce gradually - add soy sauce and fish sauce to taste so it doesn’t become too salty. It’s important to use light soy sauce; if you only have dark soy sauce, dilute it in a 1:1 ratio (1 part water, 1 part soy sauce).
- Colorful vegetables - bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli are great additions that make the dish more vibrant and nutritious.
How to serve Ham Fried Rice
Serve ham fried rice as a main dish. Optionally, add fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley before serving. For a spicier flavor, you can also add fresh chili, chili flakes, or Sriracha.
The dish looks especially appealing when served in deep bowls.
Don’t forget: cooled rice, gradual addition of sauces, and cooking the eggs separately are key elements that make the rice truly delicious. With these simple steps, you can create perfect fried rice every time that your loved ones will enjoy.
Storing and freezing
This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, which is why we recommend making it fresh whenever possible.
However, if you have leftovers, you can certainly store them. Keep the dish in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Before serving, reheat it well in a pan on the stove, then serve.
You can also freeze ham fried rice if desired. Once it has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags and store it for up to one month. Before serving, thaw and reheat.
How to make Ham Fried Rice at home (video)
Check out this short video for an easier way to prepare ham fried rice at home.
Next, make these fried rice recipes
Made in collaboration with Podravka d.o.o.
METHOD
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rice
Rinse the long-grain rice thoroughly and place it in a saucepan. Pour in enough water so that it is about two centimeters above the rice. Add salt and wait for it to boil. Then reduce the heat, cover with a lid, and cook for 11 minutes. Set aside to let the rice cool completely for at least 1 hour. Optionally, you can also do this a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator.
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eggs
Add a tablespoon of oil to a deep pan or wok and place it over high heat. Add the beaten eggs and let them cook for about a minute until they set, then stir to scramble them. Cook for another 30 seconds, then transfer to a plate.
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fried rice
Clean the same pan and add oil or butter. Once melted over medium heat, add the diced Easter ham. Fry for 3–4 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the rice, stir, and fry for 2 minutes, then add the tomato paste, fish sauce, and sugar. Cook for 1 more minute.
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add vegetables
Add the frozen peas, chopped spring onion greens, and the cooked scrambled eggs. Fry for another 4 minutes. Season with soy sauce, mix well, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then divide among plates and serve.
