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The first time I took a bite of a sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl, I was transported straight to a bustling street market in Asia, brimming with the incredible aromas of savory meats and vibrant vegetables. The mesmerizing scent of sweet, smoky char siu sauce clung to the succulent pork scotch steaks as they sizzled, igniting a joyful rush of anticipation. This dish, with its tender pork and rich, flavorful rice, quickly became a beloved staple in my home—perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings with friends.

As I prepare to share this delectable recipe with you, I can’t help but feel excited at the simplicity and versatility of the fried rice. Whether you’re trying to impress dinner guests or simply craving a comforting meal, this char siu pork fried rice bowl ticks all the boxes. Easy to whip up and wonderfully satisfying, it’s a delightful way to break free from fast food monotony and embrace the magic of homemade food. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why will you love this Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl?

Irresistible flavor: The rich char siu sauce beautifully caramelizes the pork, creating a sweet and smoky finish that’s hard to resist.
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you can enjoy this incredible meal in no time.
One-pot wonder: This fried rice bowl combines protein, veggies, and carbohydrates in a single dish—perfect for hassle-free clean-up.
Versatile base: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or leftover proteins for a unique twist every time.
Crowd pleaser: Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl Ingredients

For the Pork Steaks

Pork scotch steaks – 4 x 150g (5 oz) for tender, juicy bites.
Char siu sauce – ½ cup adds that mouthwatering sweet and smoky flavor depth to the dish.

For the Fried Rice

Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp to sauté the pork, ensuring a lovely golden crust.
Additional vegetable oil – 2 tbsp for fried rice to keep everything from sticking and enhance flavor.
Garlic cloves – 4, roughly chopped to infuse a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish.
Brown onion – 1, cut into wedges for a sweet mellow flavor that complements the spices.
Asian greens (e.g., Chinese broccoli, bok choy, pak choy) – 200g (7 oz), thick stems finely sliced and leaves sliced for added nutrition and crunch.
Eggs – 2, lightly beaten to create creamy, rich pockets within the rice.
Cooked jasmine rice – 3 cups (preferably cooked the day before) to achieve the ideal texture for frying.
Soy sauce – 2 tbsp for a savory, umami boost that rounds out the flavors.
Chinese Shaoxing wine – 2 tbsp adds complexity and a subtle sweetness.
Sesame oil – 1 tsp for nutty richness that brings the dish together.
Sugar – 1 tsp balances the savoriness, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Chinese garlic chives (optional) – ¼ cup, roughly chopped for a vibrant pop of flavor.
Ground white pepper – pinch to introduce a touch of warmth without overwhelming heat.
Spring onion (scallions) – finely sliced, to serve as a fresh garnish, bringing everything together beautifully.

This Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience, awakening your taste buds and providing a comforting connection to home-cooked goodness. Enjoy!

How to Make Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl

Marinate the Pork: Place the pork scotch steaks in a bowl and toss with the char siu sauce until evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15-30 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Cook the Pork: Heat a pan over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cook the marinated pork steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, until slightly charred and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar. Set this mixture aside as it will enhance the flavor of the fried rice.
Stir-fry the Vegetables: In a wok or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the brown onion and stir-fry for 1 minute until just softened. Then, add the garlic and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Incorporate the Asian greens and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, until tender.
Add the Eggs and Rice: Push the stir-fried veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and let them set for about a minute before breaking them up and mixing everything together. Add the garlic chives, cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce mixture, and a pinch of white pepper. Stir-fry and toss until the rice is thoroughly coated.
Serve the Dish: Divide the fried rice among serving bowls. Slice the pork and arrange it on top. Drizzle with any collected pan juices and sprinkle with finely sliced spring onion. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Optional: Garnish with extra garlic chives for added freshness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl Variations

Let’s play with this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or fresh sliced chili in the stir-fry for a fiery twist. This will elevate the flavors and add an exciting heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the pork scotch steaks with tofu or tempeh, marinated in char siu sauce. This creates a comforting and satisfying plant-based meal that everyone will love.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a handful of roasted nuts, such as cashews or peanuts, into the fried rice for added crunch and richness. This simple addition will surprise you with every delightful bite.
Zesty Green: Swap in fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil for a bright, refreshing touch. The herbs will bring a wonderful aroma that will make your taste buds sing.
Citrusy Twist: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice right before serving for a zesty lift. This bright kick brings everything together and makes the dish even more refreshing.
Umami Boost: Sprinkle some dried mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini, into the fried rice while stir-frying for an extra layer of flavor. This tweak adds a satisfying earthiness you’ll adore.
Extra Veggies: Toss in shredded carrots or bell peppers for an additional burst of color and nutrition. Their crisp texture not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the overall taste.
Coconut Rice: Use coconut milk instead of water while cooking jasmine rice for a creamy, tropical flavor. This dreamy twist offers a delicious backdrop that complements the char siu beautifully.

Feel free to explore and infuse your own personality into this Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl! Enjoy the adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl

Fridge: Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and keeps the dish fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Enjoy your delicious sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl!

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving leftovers out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain quality.

What to Serve with Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl?

Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that enhance this flavorful dish and create a delightful meal.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites are filled with fresh vegetables, adding a textural contrast that beautifully complements the tender pork.
Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, these dumplings offer a delicious and hearty addition that pairs perfectly with the sweet and smoky flavors.
Asian Cucumber Salad: The crisp, refreshing cucumbers tossed in a tangy vinaigrette provide a bright contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the fried rice.
Roasted Cauliflower: Tossed with sesame oil and spices, the nutty flavors of roasted cauliflower create an earthy side that beautifully complements the dish’s sweetness.
Chili Garlic Edamame: Lightly salted and spicy, these steamed soybeans bring an irresistible pop of flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.
Chilled Green Tea: Serve this refreshing drink to cleanse the palate, enhancing the savory notes of the dish with its light, soothing properties.
Mango Sticky Rice: If you’re craving dessert, this sweet treat adds a delightful finish, mirroring the rich flavors while providing a luscious, satisfying end to your meal.

Expert Tips for Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl

Marinate for Flavor: Let the pork scotch steaks marinate in char siu sauce for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, ensuring every bite is packed with that sweet, smoky goodness.
Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, use cooked jasmine rice that’s been refrigerated overnight. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy while stir-frying in the fried rice bowl.
High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry everything over high heat to achieve that lovely char and maintain the crunch of the vegetables. This avoids a soggy mess and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables. Just remember to adjust cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly tender without being overcooked in your sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of finely sliced spring onion and optional garlic chives at the end brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Don’t skip this step!

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowls are a fantastic meal prep choice for busy home cooks! You can marinate the pork scotch steaks in char siu sauce for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. The fried rice can be assembled and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it’s best to cook the jasmine rice a day ahead for optimal texture. Just refrigerate the rice in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated pork, stir-fry the vegetables, and toss everything together. You’ll have a delicious meal that feels homemade and comforting, all with minimal effort!

Sticky Char Siu Pork Fried Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pork scotch steaks?
Absolutely! When selecting pork scotch steaks, look for cuts that are firm with a slight sheen. The meat should be pink with minimal dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh cuts should feel moist but not wet.

How should I store leftover fried rice?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze the sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the fried rice to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.

What should I do if my fried rice turns out mushy?
If you find that your fried rice is mushy, it’s likely that the rice was too wet when added to the pan. For future attempts, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated overnight, as this helps to dry it out, making it easier to stir-fry without becoming mushy. Additionally, ensure you’re cooking over high heat, which will help achieve that desirable texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this sticky char siu pork fried rice bowl for anyone with allergies, be cautious with soy sauce and char siu sauce, as they often contain gluten and other allergens. There are gluten-free alternatives available. Additionally, if sharing with pets, avoid giving them any leftovers that contain garlic or onion, both of which can be harmful to them.

How can I make this dish more suitable for a vegan diet?
For a vegan-friendly version, swap the pork scotch steaks for tofu or tempeh marinated in the char siu sauce for a similar flavor. You can also replace the eggs with scrambled tofu seasoned with turmeric for color and flavor. This keeps the essence of a fried rice bowl while catering to plant-based diets.