Chinese Fried Rice

Day-old rice stir-fried hot and fast with egg, ham, and peas, the frugal cook’s leftover magic.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cold cooked long-grain rice (preferably day-old)
• 3 tablespoons peanut oil
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham or barbecued pork
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Break up the cold rice with your fingers so the grains separate.
2. Heat a wok over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of the oil; scramble the eggs quickly, then remove.
3. Add the remaining oil to the wok and stir-fry the ham and peas for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice and stir-fry vigorously, tossing constantly, for 3 to 4 minutes until hot.
5. Return the egg to the wok, add the green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and white pepper and serve immediately.

Notes

Adapted from Jeff Smith, The Frugal Gourmet, who praised the wok for transforming leftovers.