The Best Ham Fried Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Way to Use Leftover Ham
This incredibly easy Ham Fried Rice Recipe is the perfect and most delicious way to transform your leftover ham into a complete meal. Utilizing just one pan, a handful of simple ingredients, and delivering a massive burst of flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll crave time and time again. Say goodbye to boring leftovers and hello to a vibrant, satisfying, and incredibly tasty meal that’s ready in minutes!
From the Author: Better Than Takeout Ham Fried Rice!
As a devoted enthusiast of fried rice, I’ve spent considerable time perfecting a version that I’m genuinely proud of. So, when I found myself with a generous portion of leftover Christmas ham, inspiration struck. A lightbulb moment!
While I was already confident that ham would be a delightful addition to my existing fried rice recipe, the actual result far exceeded my expectations. The ham infused a depth of flavor that elevated the dish to a whole new level, making it exceptionally savory and satisfying.
From the very first bite, I knew I had to share this ham-infused version with all of you. And, truth be told, I now find myself intentionally preparing extra ham, solely to ensure a steady supply of leftovers for this incredible dish.
Ham Fried Rice Recipe Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing ham fried rice. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preference.
| Ingredient | Tips or Swaps |
|---|---|
| Ham | Smoked ham is recommended for the best flavor. Dice it into small pieces so it browns quickly and evenly. |
| Eggs | Scramble them gently, ensuring they remain soft and slightly moist for the best texture in your fried rice. |
| Day-Old Rice | This is key! Day-old rice is drier and won’t clump together. If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a sheet pan and chill or freeze it to dry it out before using. |
| Frozen Veggies | A mix of peas, carrots, and corn works beautifully. Consider adding edamame for an extra boost of protein and texture. |
| Garlic and Ginger | Freshly minced garlic and ginger will provide the most aromatic flavor, but jarred or paste versions are perfectly acceptable for convenience. Use whatever is easiest for you. |
| Oyster Sauce | Adds a unique savory depth. If you don’t have oyster sauce, hoisin sauce or an extra splash of soy sauce can be used as substitutes, although the flavor will be slightly different. |
| Soy Sauce | Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to have better control over the saltiness of the dish. You can always add more if needed. |
| Toasted Sesame Oil | Absolutely do not skip this ingredient! A tiny bit of toasted sesame oil goes a long way, adding a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor that is essential to authentic fried rice. |
Quick Tip: The Importance of Day-Old Rice
Leftover rice is drier and holds up much better in Ham Fried Rice than freshly cooked rice, which tends to be too soft and can result in a mushy texture. If you don’t have leftovers on hand, simply cook your rice, cool it for about 20 minutes, and then freeze it for 30 minutes to dry it out before using.
How To Make This Ham Fried Rice Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your own flavorful ham fried rice:
- Prep the Sauce: In a small jar or bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients (oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chicken bouillon powder, and pepper). Mix well and set aside.
- Scramble the Eggs: Melt butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Whisk eggs in a bowl, then pour into the pan. Scramble gently until just cooked through but still slightly soft. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Ham and Veggies: Add olive oil to the same skillet or wok. Heat over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham, onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until the ham is lightly browned and the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the frozen veggies and continue to stir-fry until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Rice: Add the day-old cooked rice to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Pour the prepared sauce over the rice and stir well to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Finish with the Eggs: Add the scrambled eggs back to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle with green onions and drizzle with toasted sesame oil.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
What To Serve With Your Ham Fried Rice:
Ham fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious side dishes that complement its savory flavors:
- Soup: A light and refreshing miso soup or classic egg drop soup are excellent choices.
- Salad: A crisp Asian-style slaw or a cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the fried rice.
- Spring Rolls: Vegetable or shrimp spring rolls add a satisfying crunch and extra layer of flavor.
- Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings, such as potstickers, complement the savory flavors of the fried rice perfectly.
- Edamame: A simple side dish of lightly salted edamame provides a boost of protein and fiber.
Storage Instructions
- Allow the ham fried rice to cool completely to room temperature.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, microwave it or stir-fry it in a skillet with a bit of water or oil until heated through.
More Delicious Recipes To Use Leftover Ham:
Ham And Bean Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful ham and bean soup, a classic way to use leftover ham.
EASY Ham Pot Pie
Enjoy a comforting and savory ham pot pie, filled with tender ham, vegetables, and a flaky crust.
Ham and Cheese Quiche
A delightful and savory quiche filled with ham and cheese, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe
Quick and easy ham and cheese sliders, perfect for a party appetizer or a simple lunch.
Ham Fried Rice Recipe
A detailed recipe card is provided below for easy printing and reference.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced to small pieces
- 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1-1/2 cups frozen veggies (1/2 cup corn, 1 cup peas and carrots)
- 2 cups cooked rice (from the fridge)
- 2/3 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon white or black pepper
Instructions:
- Prep everything first; cooking goes fast! Combine all sauce ingredients in a small jar. Shake well and set aside.
- Heat butter in a large, nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Whisk eggs in a bowl, then pour into the pan once butter is melted. Scramble eggs until just cooked (still slightly wet); transfer to a plate. Chop or break up with a spatula and set aside.
- Increase heat to high. In the same pan, add oil, ham, onion, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry until ham is golden, about 3–4 minutes. Add frozen vegetables and cook until excess water evaporates, 2–3 minutes. Stir in the rice and prepared sauce. Cook for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
- Mix through the cooked eggs, green onions, and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes:
Note 1: If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a lined sheet pan. Let it cool slightly, then refrigerate (or freeze) until chilled before using in the recipe.
Storage: Allow to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freezer for up to 2 months.