Whether you’re looking for a simple vegetable stir-fry or a juicy protein to complete your meal, we’ve got you covered with a variety of options to choose from. Read on to find out what to serve with fried rice based on what you crave and what’s in your pantry.
You can always complement your fried rice dish with juicy grilled shrimp, succulent slices of sautéed chicken, or crisp stir-fried vegetables for a balanced and flavorful meal. Or, add a spicy kick with a side of chili sauce or sriracha mayo. Whatever your preference, these tasty options will take your fried rice to the next level.
What are the most popular side dishes for fried rice?
Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Stir-fried Vegetables: Adding a mix of fresh, crunchy vegetables to your fried rice provides a healthy balance of flavors and textures. Popular options include broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas.
- Marinated Meats: Adding a protein to your fried rice, such as marinated beef, chicken, or shrimp, provides a savory and satisfying addition to the dish. Popular marinade options include soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.
- Dipping Sauces: A variety of dipping sauces can enhance the flavors of your fried rice. Popular options include soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha mayo.
- Soup: A bowl of hot soup, such as egg drop soup or wonton soup, can provide a soothing and flavorful complement to your fried rice.
- Spring Rolls: A crispy and crunchy spring roll can provide a delicious contrast to the soft and fluffy grains of fried rice.
Regardless of your preferences, these popular side dishes are sure to elevate your fried rice experience and create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
What meats go well with fried rice?
Fried rice is a staple dish in many cultures and can be paired with a variety of meats to create a satisfying and complete meal. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Chicken: Sautéed or grilled chicken provides a juicy and flavorful addition to fried rice. Popular marinade options include soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.
- Beef: Marinated and stir-fried beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, add a savory and satisfying element to fried rice.
- Shrimp: Grilled or stir-fried shrimp provides a delicate and flavorful addition to fried rice.
- Pork: Sautéed or grilled pork, such as pork loin or pork chops, provides a savory and satisfying addition to fried rice.
Regardless of your preference, adding protein to your fried rice creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Experiment with different meats and marinades to find your perfect pairing.
What vegetables go well with fried rice?
Adding vegetables to fried rice is a great way to create a balanced and nutritious meal. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Peas and Carrots: A classic combination, peas, and carrots provide a sweet and crunchy contrast to the savory flavors of fried rice.
- Bell Peppers: Sliced or diced bell peppers add a crisp and fresh crunch to fried rice.
- Broccoli: Sautéed or steamed broccoli provides a healthy and flavorful addition to fried rice.
- Snow Peas: Thinly sliced snow peas add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to fried rice.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed or stir-fried mushrooms provide a hearty and earthy flavor to fried rice.
- Onions: Diced or sliced onions add a pungent and savory flavor to fried rice.
When adding vegetables to fried rice, it’s best to stir-fry them until they are crisp-tender and still retain their color. This will add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the soft and fluffy grains of the fried rice.
Can fried rice be served as a main dish or only as a side?
Fried rice can be served as both a main dish and a side dish, depending on the ingredients and the occasion. When served as a main dish, fried rice can be made more filling by adding a protein, such as chicken, shrimp, or beef, as well as vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal. This makes fried rice a popular option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
When served as a side dish, fried rice is often accompanied by a main dish, such as a stir-fry, grilled meats, or soup, to complete the meal. In this case, the fried rice is typically lighter and contains fewer ingredients, acting as a complementary side dish to the main entrée.
Regardless of whether it’s served as a main dish or a side dish, fried rice is a versatile and flavorful option that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
How to make fried rice into a complete meal?
Making fried rice into a complete meal is as simple as adding protein and vegetables to the dish. Here are the steps to turn your fried rice into a satisfying and nutritious meal:
- Choose your protein: Decide on a protein, such as chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu, and marinate it with a sauce, such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or oyster sauce.
- Cook the protein: Stir-fry or grill the protein until it is cooked through and tender. Set it aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Choose a mix of vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and mushrooms, and stir-fry them until they are crisp-tender.
- Cook the fried rice: Reheat the cooked rice in a large skillet or wok with a small amount of oil. Stir in the protein and vegetables and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other seasonings you prefer.
- Serve: Serve the fried rice hot and garnish it with green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor and texture.
By adding protein and vegetables to your fried rice, you can create a balanced and nutritious meal in one easy dish. This makes fried rice a convenient and delicious option for a weeknight dinner or a quick and easy lunch.
What are the best sauces to serve with fried rice?
The right sauce can elevate your fried rice and bring out the flavors of the dish. Here are some of the best sauces to serve with fried rice:
- Soy Sauce: A staple in many Asian cuisines, soy sauce adds a savory and salty flavor to fried rice.
- Hoisin Sauce: A sweet and savory sauce, hoisin sauce is commonly used in stir-fries and adds a rich, slightly spicy flavor to fried rice.
- Oyster Sauce: A flavorful and savory sauce, oyster sauce is made from the oyster extract and adds a depth of flavor to fried rice.
- Sesame Oil: Made from roasted sesame seeds, sesame oil adds a nutty and fragrant flavor to fried rice.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a spicy kick, a drizzle of hot sauce, such as sriracha or chili garlic sauce, adds heat and flavor to fried rice.
These sauces can be drizzled over the fried rice or served on the side for dipping. Experiment with different sauces to find the perfect pairing for your fried rice.
Can fried rice be paired with seafood dishes?
Yes, fried rice can be paired with seafood dishes to create a delicious and balanced meal. The savory and slightly salty flavors of fried rice complement the tender and flavorful seafood dishes, making them a great pairing.
When pairing fried rice with seafood, consider the type of seafood you are using and the flavors you want to achieve. For example, shrimp fried rice pairs well with grilled or stir-fried shrimp, while crab fried rice pairs well with crab meat. You can also add seafood to the fried rice itself, such as stir-frying cooked shrimp or crab meat into the dish.
In addition, you can also incorporate flavors from the seafood into the fried rice, such as using a seafood-flavored broth or adding a splash of fish sauce. This will enhance the flavor of the fried rice and complement the seafood dish.
Overall, fried rice and seafood are versatile and flavorful pairings that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, fried rice and seafood are a combination that is sure to satisfy you.
What are the traditional side dishes in Asian cuisine to serve with fried rice?
In Asian cuisine, there are many traditional side dishes that are commonly served with fried rice. Some of the most popular side dishes include:
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, broccoli, and bell peppers, add color, texture, and flavor to fried rice.
- Soup: A light and flavorful soup, such as miso soup or wonton soup, complements the savory and slightly salty flavors of fried rice.
- Spring Rolls: A crispy and crunchy appetizer, spring rolls add texture and flavor to the meal and make a great finger food to enjoy with fried rice.
- Satay: Grilled or stir-fried meats, such as chicken or beef, that have been marinated and skewered make a flavorful and filling side dish for fried rice.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumber or pickled radish, add a tangy and crunchy texture to the meal and balance out the flavors of the fried rice.
These traditional side dishes, along with a variety of sauces, add depth and flavor to the fried rice and create a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a special occasion meal, these traditional side dishes are sure to impress.
What are the best side dishes to balance the flavors in fried rice?
The best side dishes to balance the flavors in fried rice are those that complement the savory and slightly salty flavors of the dish. Here are some side dishes that are great for balancing the flavors in fried rice:
- Salad: A fresh and crisp salad, such as a green salad or a cucumber salad, adds crunch and a burst of freshness to the meal.
- Grilled or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Grilled or stir-fried vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, or carrots, add texture and flavor to the meal.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumber or pickled radish, add tanginess and crunch to the meal, balancing out the flavors of the fried rice.
- Soy Sauce Chicken or Beef: A simple and flavorful dish, soy sauce chicken or beef pairs well with fried rice and adds protein to the meal.
- Edamame: A healthy and flavorful snack, edamame adds protein and fiber to the meal and balances out the flavors of fried rice.
Can soups be served with fried rice?
Yes, soups can be served with fried rice. In fact, soups are a popular side dish in many Asian cuisines and can complement the savory and slightly salty flavors of fried rice.
A light and flavorful soup, such as miso soup or wonton soup, add moisture and depth of flavor to the meal. The warmth and comforting nature of soups make them a great pairing with the slightly crunchy texture of fried rice.
When serving soup with fried rice, consider the flavors of both dishes and make sure they complement each other. For example, a light and flavorful soup, such as a vegetable or chicken broth, pairs well with a simple and savory fried rice dish.
Overall, soups and fried rice make a delicious and satisfying meal, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a special occasion meal. So, go ahead and give it a try.
What are the best drinks to pair with fried rice?
Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of drinks. Some of the best options include:
- Ice water – helps to cleanse the palate between bites
- Green tea – complements the flavors of the dish and acts as a palate cleanser
- Sweet and sour drinks, like soda or lemonade – cut through the richness of the dish
- Beer – a crisp lager or light beer can be a good match for the flavors of fried rice
- Rice wine, like sake – complements the rice in the dish and can bring out its flavors
Ultimately, the best drink to pair with fried rice will depend on personal taste and the flavors in the dish.
Can a salad be served with fried rice?
Yes, salad can be served with fried rice. A simple green salad or a mixed vegetable salad can complement the flavors and textures of the dish and add a refreshing element to the meal. Additionally, the greens in the salad can help to balance out the richness of the fried rice, making it a healthier meal option.
In addition to a simple green salad, there are many other types of salads that can be served with fried rice. For example, a cucumber and tomato salad provide a crisp and refreshing contrast to the flavors of the dish. A coleslaw can add a creamy, tangy flavor and crunch to the meal, while a bean salad or pickled vegetable salad can provide an interesting mix of flavors and textures.
When serving a salad with fried rice, it’s important to consider the flavors of the dish. Fried rice is often seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other spices, so it’s best to choose a salad that will complement these flavors. A light and fresh dressing, such as a vinaigrette or citrus dressing, can help to bring out the flavors of the salad and enhance the meal as a whole.
What are the best side dishes for vegetarian fried rice?
Vegetarian fried rice can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Some of the best options include:
- Roasted or steamed vegetables – carrots, broccoli, or green beans are all good choices.
- Spring rolls or egg rolls – crispy and flavorful, these are a classic pairing for fried rice.
- Soup or hot and sour soup – a light broth can help to balance out the flavors of the fried rice.
- Stir-fried or sautéed vegetables – these can add texture and flavor to the meal
- Salad – a fresh green salad or a colorful vegetable salad can complement the flavors of the fried rice and add a light and refreshing element to the meal.
- Tofu or tempeh – these protein-rich ingredients can be stir-fried or grilled and served as a side dish to the fried rice
- Raita or cucumber yogurt – this cool and tangy side dish can balance out the spices in the fried rice
Ultimately, the best side dishes for vegetarian fried rice will depend on personal taste and the flavors of the dish. By choosing a combination of sides that complement the flavors and textures of the fried rice, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can appetizers be served with fried rice?
Yes, appetizers can be served with fried rice. Appetizers can add variety and interest to the meal and help to build anticipation for the main course. Some popular appetizers to serve with fried rice include:
- Edamame – steamed soybeans in the pod, often lightly salted
- Dumplings – steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat
- Spring rolls or egg rolls – crispy and flavorful, these can be a great start to the meal
- Wontons – similar to dumplings, wontons can be steamed or fried and filled with a variety of fillings.
- Vegetable tempura – battered and fried vegetables, a good way to add variety and texture to the meal
- Crab Rangoon or cream cheese wontons – a creamy and crispy appetizer that can be a good match for the flavors of fried rice
- Satay or skewers of grilled meat or vegetables – a flavorful and filling start to the meal
By serving appetizers with fried rice, you can add variety and interest to the meal and help to build anticipation for the main course. Whether it’s a light and refreshing appetizer or a more substantial option, there are many appetizers that can complement the flavors and textures of fried rice.
What are the best side dishes for spicy fried rice?
Spicy fried rice can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Some of the best options include:
- Cooling condiments – raita, cucumber yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon can help to balance out the heat of the spicy fried rice.
- Salad – a crisp green salad or a mixed vegetable salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the dish.
- Vegetables – roasted or steamed vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, can provide a mild flavor contrast to spicy rice.
- Rice or noodles – a simple bowl of plain rice or noodles can help to balance out the heat of the spicy fried rice
- Tofu or tempeh – these protein-rich ingredients can be stir-fried or grilled and served as a side dish to balance out the heat of the spicy fried rice
- Stir-fried vegetables – such as bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas, can provide a crunchy and flavorful contrast to the spicy fried rice.
- Bread or naan – a piece of warm, crusty bread can help to soothe the mouth and balance out the heat of the spicy fried rice
Ultimately, the best side dishes for spicy fried rice will depend on personal taste and the level of heat in the dish. By choosing a combination of sides that complement the flavors and textures of the spicy fried rice, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
If you want to know what to serve with fried rice, then you are just in the right place. Fried rice can be paired with a wide range of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Whether it’s a simple green salad, a bowl of soup, or a plate of roasted vegetables, there are many options to choose from.
The best side dishes for fried rice will depend on personal taste and the flavors of the dish, but some popular options include crisp salads, refreshing condiments, crunchy stir-fried vegetables, and warming broths.