How to Make Thai Fried Rice (Khao Pad)
Thai Fried Rice, or Khao Pad, is a beloved dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be customized with your favorite proteins and vegetables. Follow this guide to create a delicious Khao Pad at home.
Ingredients for Thai Fried Rice
To make Thai Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old rice)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1-2 green onions, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
Using day-old jasmine rice is ideal for fried rice dishes, as it’s dryer and less sticky. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook the rice beforehand and allow it to cool completely.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the ingredients but not smoking.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Cook the Eggs
Push the garlic and onion to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble them until fully cooked. Mix the eggs with the sautéed vegetables when done.
5. Add the Vegetables and Rice
Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked jasmine rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and combine everything thoroughly.
6. Season the Rice
Add the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sugar. Stir well to ensure every grain of rice is coated with the seasoning. Adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.
7. Finishing Touches
Once everything is heated through, mix in the chopped green onions and remove the pan from heat. The green onions add a fresh element to the dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Thai Fried Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side. The lime adds a bright acidity that complements the richness of the rice.
Variations and Tips
You can customize Khao Pad by adding proteins such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Simply sauté the protein with the garlic and onion before adding the eggs. For added heat, consider including chopped Thai chilies.
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, bean sprouts, or broccoli can all be delicious additions to your Thai Fried Rice.
Conclusion
Making authentic Thai Fried Rice at home is simple and satisfying. With this quick recipe, you can enjoy a delicious meal that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Whether as a side dish or a main course, Khao Pad is sure to become a favorite in your home.