Chinese cuisine

Lao Gan Ma, or “Old Dried Mother” in English, is a popular Chinese condiment known for its spicy and flavorful taste. It’s often used in various Chinese dishes to add a kick of heat and flavor. When combined with rice, it creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also filling. In this article, we’ll go through the step-by-step process of making Lao Gan Ma Fried Rice, ensuring you get the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Before we start, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

• 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
• 3 tablespoons of Lao Gan Ma chili sauce (or to taste)
• 2 eggs
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup of frozen peas
• 1/2 cup of chopped ham (or any other protein you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice: Start by ensuring you have cooked rice on hand. Ideally, use day-old rice as it’s less sticky and better for frying. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can always cook some fresh rice and let it cool down before using it.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large wok or a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the wok and sauté for about a minute or until fragrant. Then, add the diced carrot and frozen peas, stirring frequently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Add the Protein: Next, add the chopped ham or any other protein you’re using. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly to ensure everything is well-combined and heated through.
5. Add the Rice: Once the vegetables and protein are cooked, add the cooked rice to the wok. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up any clumps of rice and ensure everything is well-mixed.
6. Add Lao Gan Ma Sauce: Now it’s time to add the Lao Gan Ma chili sauce. Start with 3 tablespoons and stir well to distribute the sauce evenly throughout the rice. You can add more or less depending on your preference for spice.
7. Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the wok and stir gently to distribute them evenly throughout the rice. Let the eggs cook for a minute or two until they’re slightly scrambled but still retain some texture.
8. Season with Salt and Pepper: Finally, season the rice with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.
9. Garnish with Green Onions: If using, add the chopped green onions on top of the rice as a garnish. This adds a nice touch of color and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Your Lao Gan Ma Fried Rice is now ready to serve! Transfer it to a serving plate and enjoy its spicy, flavorful goodness.

Tips and Variations

• If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can reduce the amount of Lao Gan Ma chili sauce or use a milder variety.
• You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and nutrients.
• For a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham or replace it with tofu or vegetable protein.
• To make this dish even more delicious, you can add a few drops of sesame oil at the end for an extra-flavorful touch.
• If you prefer a softer egg texture, you can add beaten eggs at an earlier stage and let them cook longer before adding the rice.

Conclusion

Lao Gan Ma Fried Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines spicy chili sauce with fragrant vegetables and protein for a satisfying meal. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. Whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit! So give it a try and enjoy the spicy, flavorful taste of Lao Gan Ma Fried Rice!