Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice is a mouthwatering fusion of bold flavors and textures, combining the finest ingredients with expert cooking techniques to elevate a simple dish into an extraordinary meal. If you’re looking to impress your guests, or just want a delicious, hearty meal, this recipe is a must-try.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice

Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice is an elevated version of the traditional Asian fried rice, characterized by its perfect balance of flavors, seasonings, and textures. This dish incorporates a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, proteins (like chicken, shrimp, or pork), and of course, cold, day-old rice for the ideal fried rice texture. The beauty of Ramsay’s version lies in his method of using a high heat, ensuring a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior for the rice and proteins. He also focuses on maximizing flavor by using ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings that bring depth to the dish.

The result?

A quick yet refined meal that bursts with flavor in every bite.

Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Day-Old Rice – Preferably jasmine or long-grain rice; using rice that has been refrigerated gives it the right texture for frying.
2. Oil – A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works best for frying.
3. Eggs – Lightly beaten, these add a rich texture to the fried rice.
4. Chicken, Shrimp, or Pork (optional) – Choose your protein of choice, diced into bite-sized pieces.
5. Garlic – Freshly minced for an aromatic base.
6. Ginger – A small piece of ginger, finely grated for a zing of freshness.
7. Green Onions – Finely chopped, they provide a lovely crunch and vibrant color.
8. Vegetables – You can use peas, carrots, or bell peppers for color and texture.
9. Soy Sauce – A splash of soy sauce for depth of flavor.
10. Sesame Oil – For that signature nutty, fragrant flavor.
11. Optional Garnishes – Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or chili flakes for a little extra zing.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice, the following kitchen tools will make the job much easier:

1. Wok or Large Skillet – A wok is ideal for high-heat frying, but any large skillet or frying pan will do the job.
2. Spatula or Wooden Spoon – Essential for stirring and tossing the ingredients without damaging the rice.
3. Knife and Chopping Board – For chopping vegetables and protein into small, even pieces.
4. Small Bowl for Beating Eggs – A small bowl to beat your eggs before adding them to the wok.
5. Measuring Spoons – For accurate measurements of your soy sauce and sesame oil.

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice?

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Dice your chosen protein (chicken, shrimp, or pork), chop your vegetables and green onions, and beat your eggs in a small bowl. The rice should be cold and from the previous day to ensure it fries well.

2. Cook The Eggs

• Heat a small amount of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

3. Sauté The Garlic And Ginger

• In the same wok, add a bit more oil, then toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

4. Cook The Protein

• Add your protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, or pork) and stir-fry until cooked through, which should only take a few minutes. Remove from the pan and set it aside with the scrambled eggs.

5. Stir-Fry The Vegetables

• Add your vegetables to the wok and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You want them to maintain some texture in the final dish.

6. Fry The Rice

• Now add the cold, day-old rice to the pan. Use the spatula or wooden spoon to break up any clumps of rice. Stir-fry the rice, pressing it against the sides of the pan to get it crispy and golden brown.

7. Season The Rice

• Once the rice is cooked, return the eggs and protein to the wok. Add a splash of soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil, and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

8. Garnish And Serve

• Sprinkle the green onions on top and serve hot. For extra flair, garnish with fresh cilantro, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime.

Expert Tips

1. Use Cold, Day-Old Rice: This is key for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and will clump together when frying. Day-old rice has had time to dry out, making it perfect for frying.
2. High Heat is Essential: For that restaurant-style fried rice, you want your wok to be very hot. This allows the rice to fry quickly and evenly, creating those crispy edges and caramelized flavors.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to fry the rice in smaller batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the rice to steam rather than fry, which will affect the texture.
4. Feel Free to Experiment: While Gordon Ramsay’s recipe uses chicken, shrimp, or pork, you can easily adapt the dish with tofu or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bok choy.
5. Don’t Skip the Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in imparting that essential, nutty flavor to the rice. Just a few drops will elevate the whole dish.

Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice is a perfect dish to master if you’re looking to impress with minimal effort. With its flavorful depth, satisfying textures, and customizable ingredients, this recipe is a versatile winner whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group.

By following the expert tips and steps outlined, you’ll bring home that restaurant-quality fried rice that Ramsay is known for, and you’ll never go back to the bland versions again. Happy cooking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice

Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be customized in many ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. While his recipe is an excellent base, you can experiment with a variety of ingredients and techniques to give it your personal touch. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Vegetarian Fried Rice

   • Simply omit any meat and load the dish with a variety of colorful vegetables. Consider adding diced carrots, peas, bell peppers, corn, or broccoli. You can also add tofu for protein or tempeh for an earthy flavor.
   • For extra flavor, toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end.

2. Chicken Fried Rice

   • Add diced cooked chicken breast or thighs to the rice along with the vegetables and seasoning. Chicken works particularly well with Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice recipe because it absorbs the sauce and spices, giving the dish an extra savory layer. Grilled chicken, especially with a smoky char, can elevate the dish even more.

3. Shrimp Fried Rice

   • Swap the chicken for shrimp, which cooks quickly and adds a rich seafood flavor. For the best results, ensure the shrimp are not overcooked to preserve their juicy tenderness. You can also marinate the shrimp beforehand with a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil to enhance their flavor.

4. Beef Fried Rice

   • For a more hearty variation, use ground beef or thinly sliced steak. Stir-fry the beef until it’s crispy and golden, then toss it with the rice and vegetables. A dash of oyster sauce can add depth to the flavor, making this version truly satisfying.

5. Spicy Fried Rice

   • Add some heat to your fried rice by incorporating chili peppers, sriracha sauce, or sambal oelek. You can adjust the spice level depending on your preference and even experiment with different types of chilies (such as Thai bird’s eye chilis or jalapeños). A bit of chili oil can also be drizzled on top for extra flavor.

6. Pineapple Fried Rice

   • Give your fried rice a sweet and savory twist by adding chunks of pineapple. This variation is popular in Thai cuisine and works wonderfully with the soy sauce and sesame oil used in Ramsay’s recipe. The juicy pineapple pieces add a burst of sweetness, balancing the saltiness of the other ingredients.

7. Egg Fried Rice

   • For a more traditional version, increase the amount of scrambled eggs. If you enjoy a fluffy and creamy texture, you can add extra egg yolks. This version is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on its own, or you can use it as a side dish.

8. Kimchi Fried Rice

   • For a Korean-inspired variation, incorporate some kimchi into your fried rice. The fermented cabbage gives the dish a tangy, spicy kick. Pair this with a fried egg on top, as is traditional with many Korean rice dishes.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Fried rice is a fantastic dish to make ahead, and storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy it again without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here are some best practices for storing and reheating your fried rice:

1. Cool Down Quickly

   • To avoid any bacterial growth, it’s important to cool the fried rice as quickly as possible after cooking. Spread the rice out on a large tray or baking sheet and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes before storing it in the fridge.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   • Once the fried rice has cooled, store it in an airtight container. This will help keep the rice fresh and prevent it from absorbing any odors in the fridge. It’s best to store fried rice for no more than 2-3 days to ensure it remains safe and delicious.

3. Freezing Fried Rice

   • Fried rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe bag or container, and be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat it straight from frozen in a hot pan with a splash of oil.

4. Reheating Tips

   • For the best texture, reheat fried rice in a skillet or wok. Heat some oil over medium-high heat and add the rice, stirring constantly to ensure even heating. If the rice feels a little dry, you can add a few teaspoons of water or broth to help revive it. A touch of soy sauce or sesame oil can also boost the flavor.

5. Avoid Microwaving Too Long

   • If you need to microwave your fried rice, be sure to use a microwave-safe container with a lid. Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to prevent the rice from becoming too soggy or overcooked. It’s best to sprinkle a little water over the rice before microwaving to maintain moisture.

What Goes Well With Fried Rice?

Fried rice is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and main courses. Whether you’re serving it as a meal on its own or as part of a larger feast, here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your fried rice:

1. Grilled Meats

   • Grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops work great alongside fried rice. The savory flavors of grilled meats complement the rice’s richness, especially when topped with a bit of soy sauce or a zesty marinade. Try a honey-soy glazed chicken or teriyaki beef for a sweet-salty contrast.

2. Egg Rolls Or Spring Rolls

   • For a crispy contrast, serve fried rice with egg rolls or fresh spring rolls. The crispy texture of the rolls pairs beautifully with the soft, savory rice. You can opt for traditional egg rolls with pork or vegetarian spring rolls filled with crunchy vegetables and herbs.

3. Sautéed Vegetables

   • Pair fried rice with a side of sautéed vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or green beans. Lightly stir-fry the vegetables in sesame oil with a hint of garlic and ginger for a fresh and crunchy complement to the rich rice.

4. Sweet And Sour Dishes

   • Fried rice pairs especially well with sweet and sour dishes, like sweet and sour chicken or pork. The tangy and sugary sauce balances out the savory richness of the rice, creating a well-rounded meal.

5. Dim Sum

   • If you’re in the mood for a larger spread, dim sum options like dumplings, bao buns, or steamed buns can be served alongside fried rice. These bite-sized morsels of flavor work harmoniously with the fried rice to create a feast that feels special and satisfying.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice is a highly adaptable dish that provides the perfect base for creating a variety of flavorful meals. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or choose to customize it with different proteins, vegetables, and spices, there’s no wrong way to make it your own.

Leftovers can be easily stored and enjoyed later with simple reheating techniques, making fried rice an ideal dish for meal prep. When paired with grilled meats, crispy rolls, or sautéed veggies, fried rice becomes a versatile side dish that complements many main courses, turning every meal into a delightful culinary experience.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Recipe?

Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice typically includes ingredients like cooked rice (preferably day-old for better texture), eggs, onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, peas, carrots, and optional additions like chicken, shrimp, or pork. Fresh herbs like coriander and green onions add an extra burst of flavor.

Can I Use Fresh Rice Instead Of Day-old Rice In Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice?

While fresh rice can be used in a pinch, day-old rice is preferred because it is drier and less sticky, which makes for a better fried rice texture. Fresh rice can become mushy when stir-fried, so if using fresh rice, it’s important to let it cool and dry out a bit before cooking.

What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Unique?

Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice stands out due to his use of high-quality ingredients and an emphasis on technique. His method involves stir-frying the ingredients quickly at high heat, adding a perfect balance of flavors with soy sauce and sesame oil, and finishing with a soft scramble of eggs for added richness.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice vegetarian by omitting any meat or seafood. You can replace these with tofu or more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to add texture and flavor.

What Type Of Rice Should I Use For Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice?

The best type of rice for fried rice is long-grain white rice, such as jasmine rice. It’s fluffy and less sticky, making it ideal for stir-frying. Avoid short-grain rice or sticky rice, as they tend to clump together when fried.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the fried rice ahead of time. In fact, day-old rice works best for this recipe.

You can prepare the fried rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it quickly in a hot pan or microwave to preserve its texture.

How Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice Spicier?

To make Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice spicier, you can add ingredients like chopped chili peppers, chili paste, or sriracha sauce during the cooking process. You can also use a spicy soy sauce or add a dash of hot sauce while serving.

What Vegetables Can I Add To Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice?

In addition to peas and carrots, you can add a variety of vegetables to Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice, such as bell peppers, corn, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli. These vegetables can be stir-fried quickly to maintain their crunch and vibrant colors.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice?

Gordon Ramsay’s fried rice is typically served as a side dish or a main course. It can be paired with grilled meats, seafood, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with a fried egg or serve it alongside a dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Fried Rice In A Wok?

Yes, a wok is the ideal tool for making fried rice. Its high sides and wide surface allow for quick, even stir-frying at high heat. If you don’t have a wok, a large, heavy skillet can also work well for this recipe.