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In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to fall into the fast-food trap, but what if I told you that a delicious, homemade meal could be just a matter of minutes away? The sizzle of pork in butter mingled with the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables can turn an ordinary evening into a culinary escape. My journey to discover the perfect weeknight solution led me straight to this savory Pork Fried Rice recipe, brimming with flavor and easy enough for anyone to whip up, even after a long day.

Imagine a plate filled with tender pieces of pork, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, all melded together with savory soy sauce and a hint of garlic. This dish not only satisfies those cravings for comfort food but also brings joy to your kitchen with minimal fuss—perfect for impressing family or just treating yourself to something special. Let me guide you through this simple yet delightful recipe that’ll have you leaving takeout menus behind for good!

Why is Pork Fried Rice a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This delightful dish comes together in just 15 to 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover rice and simple ingredients keeps costs low without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Explosion: Expect a mouthwatering combination of succulent pork, crisp veggies, and umami-rich soy sauce.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Versatile: Feel free to customize with your choice of veggies or proteins for endless variations.
For more great meal ideas, consider exploring other easy homemade recipes that make cooking a joy!

Pork Fried Rice Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this scrumptious Pork Fried Rice!

For the Rice Mixture

1 tablespoon butter – adds a rich flavor and helps in cooking the pork.
1 (6 ounce) boneless pork loin chop – provides a tender protein base for your dish.
1 green onion – adds a fresh, aromatic crunch that brightens the flavor.
¼ cup chopped carrot – gives a sweet touch and a nice pop of color.
¼ cup chopped broccoli – enhances nutrients while providing a satisfying crunch.
1 large egg – binds the ingredients and adds creaminess to the rice.
1 cup cold cooked rice – using cold rice gives the perfect texture to prevent mushiness.
¼ cup frozen peas – convenient and adds a burst of sweetness and color.
1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce – infuses a savory depth that elevates the whole dish.
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder – adds rich, garlicky flavor without the hassle of chopping.
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger – brings a warm, spicy note to the Pork Fried Rice.

Happy cooking! Enjoy crafting this delicious meal tonight!

How to Make Pork Fried Rice

Gather ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients—this will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Melt butter: In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add pork, green onion, carrot, and broccoli. Cook and stir for about 7 to 10 minutes until the pork is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Scramble egg: Transfer the pork mixture to a bowl. Return the skillet to medium heat and stir in the beaten egg. Scramble until the egg is completely set, which should take just a couple of minutes.
Combine everything: Add the pork mixture back into the skillet. Stir in the cold cooked rice, frozen peas, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Mix well to combine and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 7 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve and enjoy: Once your Pork Fried Rice is heated and well-mixed, serve it hot on your favorite dish and savor the delightful flavors!

Optional: Garnish with additional chopped green onions for an extra fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pork Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this savory dish with these delightful twists!

Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for extra color and crunch. The vibrant blend can make every bite exciting!
Teriyaki Twist: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce to introduce a sweet, savory flavor that dances on your palate. This simple change brings a delightful new character.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. You can adjust the intensity to your liking!
Egg-Free: Replace the egg with silken tofu for a vegan-friendly alternative, keeping the meal light yet satisfying! It’s a wonderful option if you’re looking for a plant-based twist.
Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white for a heartier, nuttier flavor packed with added nutrients. The difference is subtle yet impactful, enhancing the dish’s wholesome appeal.
Pineapple Delight: For a sweet and savory flair, add small pineapple chunks. The juicy burst complements the savory pork beautifully, making it feel tropical.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness. Their aromatic qualities brighten the overall flavor profile harmoniously.
Protein Swap: Substitute pork for shrimp, chicken, or tofu! Each option offers unique textures and flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone to love.

Experimenting with these variations can turn your Pork Fried Rice into a new meal each time! Enjoy the culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Pork Fried Rice

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat your Pork Fried Rice within a couple of hours, it’s fine to keep it at room temperature, but avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent food safety issues.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Pork Fried Rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat until thoroughly warmed, around 5–7 minutes. Enjoy the flavors like fresh!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pork Fried Rice

Cold Rice is Key: Always use cold, cooked rice to achieve the best texture and prevent mushiness. Freshly cooked rice will become clumpy when frying.
Uniform Chop: Ensure that all vegetables and pork pieces are chopped evenly. This promotes even cooking and bites filled with flavor.
High Heat: Cook on medium to high heat for that signature “wok hei” essence—a slightly smoky flavor and beautifully seared ingredients brings this Pork Fried Rice to life.
Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re doubling the recipe, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make this dish your own. Just remember to maintain the balance of flavors for a great Pork Fried Rice experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Pork Fried Rice components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, broccoli, and green onions) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Additionally, the pork can be cut into pieces and marinated with soy sauce in advance, allowing the flavors to meld—just do this up to 24 hours before cooking. To maintain quality, keep the cooked rice refrigerated and ensure it’s cold before using to prevent mushiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions from the recipe, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal waiting with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Pork Fried Rice?

Elevate your weeknight meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement each bite of this savory dish.

Fresh Spring Rolls: Crisp and light, these rolls provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty rice while adding a burst of flavor.
Steamed Dumplings: Their tender, savory filling pairs beautifully with the rich soy sauce notes, creating a truly satisfying experience.
Garlic Broccoli: A quick sauté of broccoli with garlic adds both nutrition and crunchy texture, harmonizing with the pork’s tenderness.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: This bright, tangy salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser that balances the richness of the Pork Fried Rice.
Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, the subtle umami flavors in the soup will enhance the overall dining experience without overpowering your main dish.
Crispy Fried Tofu: If you’re looking for an additional protein, crispy tofu brings a delightful textural contrast to the dish, soaking up all the wonderful flavors.
Iced Green Tea: Complement your meal with this refreshing drink, which helps cleanse the palate and adds a cooling element to the dinner table.
Chocolate Flan: For dessert, this creamy treat adds a luscious ending to your meal, satisfying your sweet tooth while tying in your culinary adventure.

Pork Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What kind of rice is best for Pork Fried Rice?
Absolutely! The best type of rice for Pork Fried Rice is long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, because it cooks up fluffy and keeps its texture. Using cold, cooked rice is crucial to prevent mushiness and ensure each grain stays separate during frying.

How should I store leftover Pork Fried Rice?
To store your delicious Pork Fried Rice, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. I recommend allowing it to cool to room temperature before sealing it, as this helps maintain its freshness and flavor for the next meal!

Can I freeze Pork Fried Rice?
Yes, you can! Transfer the cooled Pork Fried Rice to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist, heating until it’s piping hot.

What if my Pork Fried Rice is dry when reheating?
Very common! If your Pork Fried Rice seems dry when you reheat it, simply add a splash of water or broth before heating. This helps create steam, keeping the rice moist and flavorful. Stir well to combine and heat until everything is warmed through, about 5–7 minutes.

Can I modify the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. If you have allergies, feel free to swap the pork for tofu or chicken, and use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. You can also skip the egg or substitute it with a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.