Do you love the savory, comforting taste of fried rice? Then get ready to celebrate, because September 20th is National Fried Rice Day!
This beloved dish has origins in China but has become a global favorite, with countless variations and adaptations around the world. So what makes fried rice so special, and how can you celebrate this tasty holiday?
History of National Fried Rice Day
National Fried Rice Day was created in 2018 by Benihana, a Japanese-inspired restaurant chain known for its teppanyaki-style cooking and signature fried rice dishes. The day was established to celebrate the popularity and versatility of fried rice and to encourage people to try new and creative variations of this classic dish.
Fried rice has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Sui Dynasty in China (589-618 AD). According to legend, Emperor Yang Guang tasted some leftover rice that had been stir-fried with other ingredients and was so impressed that he ordered his chefs to prepare it for him regularly. Over time, fried rice became a staple of Chinese cuisine and spread throughout Asia and beyond.
Today, fried rice is enjoyed in countless variations around the world, from classic Chinese-style fried rice with peas, carrots, and eggs to more regional adaptations like Thai pineapple fried rice, Indonesian nasi goreng, and Filipino sinangag. No matter where you go, chances are you’ll find a unique and delicious version of this beloved dish.
Ideas to Celebrate National Fried Rice Day
Ready to celebrate National Fried Rice Day in style? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Host a fried rice potluck. Invite friends and family to bring their favorite fried rice dishes to share, and have a tasting party to sample all the different variations.
- Take a fried rice cooking class. Many Asian restaurants and cooking schools offer classes on how to make the perfect fried rice. Sign up for a class and learn from the pros!
- Experiment with new fried rice recipes. Whether you prefer classic Chinese-style fried rice or more creative variations, National Fried Rice Day is the perfect time to try something new. Look for recipes online or in cookbooks, or get creative and come up with your own unique flavor combinations.
- Order takeout from your favorite Asian restaurant. Many restaurants offer special deals or promotions on National Fried Rice Day, so be sure to check their website or social media pages for updates.
- Share your love of fried rice on social media using the hashtag #NationalFriedRiceDay. Post photos of your favorite fried rice dishes, share recipes, or simply express your appreciation for this delicious dish.
The Perfect Fried Rice: Tips and Tricks
While fried rice may seem like a simple dish, there are a few key tips and tricks to making the perfect batch every time. Here are a few to keep in mind:
– Use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Instead, use rice that has been cooked and cooled overnight, which will help it stay firm and separate when stir-fried.
– Don’t overdo the soy sauce. While soy sauce is a key ingredient in most fried rice recipes, too much can make the dish overly salty and dark in color. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
– Use high heat. Fried rice is best cooked over high heat in a wok or large skillet. This allows the rice to fry quickly and evenly without becoming mushy or burnt.
– Add ingredients in stages. To ensure that each ingredient is cooked perfectly, add them to the pan in stages based on their cooking time. For example, start with the protein and vegetables that take longer to cook, then add the rice and quick-cooking ingredients like peas and green onions towards the end.
Fried Rice Around the World
As mentioned earlier, fried rice has become a global favorite with countless regional variations. Here are a few examples of how different cultures have put their own spin on this classic dish:
– Nasi Goreng (Indonesia): This Indonesian version of fried rice often features sweet soy sauce, chili paste, and a fried egg on top. It’s a popular street food and breakfast dish.
– Kimchi Fried Rice (Korea): This spicy and tangy variation features Korean-style pickled vegetables (kimchi) stir-fried with rice, gochujang (red chili paste), and other ingredients like beef, pork, or tofu.
– Omurice (Japan): This Japanese dish features fried rice wrapped in a thin omelette, often topped with ketchup or demi-glace sauce. It’s a favorite among kids and adults alike.
– Arroz Chaufa (Peru): This Peruvian-Chinese fusion dish features fried rice with a variety of meats, vegetables, and seasonings like soy sauce, ginger, and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper).
No matter how you like your fried rice, there’s no denying the universal appeal of this comforting and versatile dish.
So why not celebrate National Fried Rice Day by trying a new recipe, ordering from your favorite restaurant, or simply enjoying a bowl of your go-to fried rice? With so many delicious variations to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Happy National Fried Rice Day!