| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 413 | 15g | 3g | 58g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 13g | 1.2g |
There’s something uniquely satisfying about the vibrant flavours and textures of Vietnamese Coriander Fried Rice. This fruit-forward dish, reminescent of my Midwestern upbringing where farm-fresh ingredients were always on hand, is a fusion of cultural cuisines, boasting an exotic mingling of healthful ingredients that are not only pleasing to the eye but also to the palate.
As an ardent aficionado of comfort food, I was instantly drawn to this dish and its judicious blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic components. It reminded me, albeit distantly, of the warm comfort that a good serving of corn casserole brought on cold Nebraskan evenings. Here is the image, a sure testament to the enticing colours and heartiness of this delicious dish:
The Heart of the Recipe: Fresh Ingredients
Without a doubt, the Vietnamese Coriander Fried Rice shines because of its wonderful ensemble of fresh ingredients. At the forefront is the Vietnamese coriander (also known as Vietnamese cilantro or rau răm), a known antioxidant that contributes a unique edge to the overall flavour profile. Despite what one might initially think, this herb isn’t simply a clone of the cilantro we’re familiar with—it has a bolder, spicier kick, which can be a revelation, especially if you’re trying it for the first time.
Then you have the pineapple, adding a burst of delightful sweetness, not to mention a boatload of vitamins and minerals. Have I mentioned that this brilliant combination is not only delectable, it’s good for you too? This is an Asian-inspired comfort dish that promotes gut health, contributing significantly to your overall well-being.
Pairing Possibilities
Another factor that enhances my affection for this Vietnamese Coriander Fried Rice recipe is its versatility. Given its full-bodied flavour, it can stand on its own as a satisfying main dish. However, its culinary compatibility allows it to accompany a variety of dishes. This fried rice pairs splendidly with lean proteins like Vietnamese Prawn Pho. The sweet and savoury fried rice could also complement a simple grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu – offering nutrient-dense balance.
In true Midwestern spirit, each dish on the table is an invitation to gather, share, and connect, and the Vietnamese Coriander Fried Rice is no exception. So, whether you’re feeding a large family, (as I hope to be doing someday), or simply cooking for yourself seeking ‘taste adventure’, this recipe is bound to become a stalwart in your culinary collection. Dig in!
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups of cooked jasmine rice
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup of carrot, finely diced
- 1 cup of peas
- 1/2 cup of fresh pineapple, diced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1/2 cup of Vietnamese coriander, finely chopped
- 6 large eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it begins to turn translucent.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté for about a minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn and turn brown, as this will give your dish a bitter taste.
Step Three
Add the diced red bell pepper and finely diced carrot to the skillet. Continue to sauté for a couple minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step Four
Add the peas and diced fresh pineapple to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Step Five
Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine the rice with the sautéed vegetables and pineapple.
Step Six
Make a well in the center of the rice. Crack the eggs into the well. Stir the eggs continuously to scramble them. As they start to cook, stir them into the rice.
Step Seven
Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, and finely chopped Vietnamese coriander to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Eight
Serve the Vietnamese Coriander Fried Rice hot. Enjoy your meal!
