If you love the delightful flavors of Panda Express’s fried rice but want to recreate that magic at home, you’re in for a treat! This recipe for Authentic Panda Express Fried Rice at Home is simple, quick, and uses ingredients you likely have on hand. With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious dish that’s perfect as a side or a meal on its own. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of homemade fried rice that’s just as satisfying as your favorite takeout.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Authentic Panda Express Fried Rice at Home recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is unbeatable. The combination of tender rice, seasoned vegetables, and eggs creates a savory profile that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s also incredibly versatile—add in your favorite proteins or vegetables to customize it to your liking. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and other ingredients lurking in your fridge. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients at a Glance

2 cups long grain rice
2 cups water
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 large eggs, whisked
1/3 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 tablespoons scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Equipment at a Glance

Medium saucepan: For cooking the rice.
Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying the ingredients.
Spatula: To mix and sauté the ingredients efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in your measurements.
Whisk: To beat the eggs smoothly.

Method: Authentic Panda Express Fried Rice at Home

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Begin by rinsing the 2 cups of long grain rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

While the rice is cooking, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the whisked eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the cooked eggs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of vegetable oil if necessary. Toss in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through. Stir constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the rice breaks up and combines evenly with the veggies. Stir in the cooked eggs and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil for that authentic flavor.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, add salt to taste and fold in the thinly sliced scallions. Give everything a good toss to mix well and serve hot. Enjoy your Authentic Panda Express Fried Rice at Home!

No-Store Runs Needed

Long grain rice: A pantry staple that’s easy to store.
Vegetable broth: You can use water if you’re in a pinch.
Frozen peas and carrots: Always handy for quick meals.
Eggs: A versatile ingredient you can use in countless dishes.
Scallions: If you don’t have them, onions can be a good substitute.

Avoid These Mistakes

Using fresh rice: Make sure your rice is day-old or cooled; freshly cooked rice can become mushy.
Overcrowding the pan: If your skillet is too full, the rice won’t fry properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget the salt and sesame oil; they are key to achieving that signature taste.
Not stirring enough: Stirring helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking of all ingredients.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This fried rice recipe is perfect for leftovers! Store any uneaten fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the skillet to keep it from drying out. This dish also makes for excellent meal prep—portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio since brown rice typically requires more water and takes longer to cook.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?

You can simply use water instead of vegetable broth. However, using broth adds an extra layer of flavor to your fried rice.

Can I add meat or tofu to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu to make this dish heartier. Just ensure they are cooked before mixing them in.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a kick of heat, add some chili flakes or sriracha sauce during cooking to spice things up. You can also serve it with a drizzle of chili oil on top.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have this easy and delicious recipe for Authentic Panda Express Fried Rice at Home, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! With a few straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying a dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Dive into the vibrant flavors, enjoy the satisfaction of cooking from scratch, and share this delightful meal with family and friends. Happy cooking!