Japanese Ham-Fried Rice
Japanese Ham-Fried Rice is a flavorful, savory dish featuring diced baked ham, green onions, pea pods, and eggs, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal inspired by Japanese flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a wok over high heat.
- Lightly beat the eggs and slowly pour into the hot oil.
- Swirl the wok until the eggs set, then remove the solid egg mass and lay out on a chopping board over toweling.
- Add green onions, pea pods, and diced ham to the wok and stir-fry until heated through.
- Add steamed rice to the wok and stir-fry until well combined and hot.
- Return the chopped eggs to the wok and mix everything thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, use day-old steamed short grain rice, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If you don't have peanut oil, canola or vegetable oil works well. Feel free to substitute the baked ham with leftover roasted pork or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adding a splash of soy sauce can enhance the flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Japanese ham-fried rice hot, garnished with extra sliced green onions for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with Pork Shu Mai for a complete meal. You can also add a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the dish. For an added crunch, consider serving it with pickled vegetables or a light dipping sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham-fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to steam the rice and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Japanese Ham-Fried Rice contains roughly 1035 calories, with 10g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 697mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh pea pods?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the wok to prevent excess moisture. This will help maintain the dish's intended texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This ham-fried rice is perfect for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to cool it completely before refrigerating to ensure food safety.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using silken tofu or a commercial egg replacer. You can also use scrambled chickpea flour mixed with water, which provides a similar texture and protein content, making it a great vegan option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).