Young Chow Fried Rice, also known as Yangzhou Fried Rice, is a classic Chinese fried rice dish originating from Yangzhou in Jiangsu province, China. It is typically made with day-old cooked rice stir-fried with various vegetables and proteins, including shrimp, diced Chinese ham (or char siu), eggs, peas, and diced carrots. The dish is known for its colorful presentation and a balance of flavors, sometimes enhanced with light soy sauce and white pepper. Some authentic recipes also include ingredients like rice wine, Chinese roast pork, and scallions, with lettuce added for a refreshing crunch. This fried rice is considered a special dish rather than a simple leftover rice stir-fry and is highly popular both in China and internationally. The key to making it tasty is using properly dried or day-old rice, breaking up rice grains before cooking, and using a wok for high-heat quick stir-frying to maintain texture and flavor. Here is a summary of common ingredients in Young Chow Fried Rice:
- Leftover or day-old cooked rice
- Eggs (beaten)
- Shrimp (shelled and deveined)
- Chinese ham or char siu
- Green peas
- Diced carrots
- Green onions (scallions)
- Light soy sauce
- White pepper
- Optional: rice wine, Chinese roast pork, lettuce
The cooking method involves stir-frying the vegetables and shrimp, then combining them with the rice and eggs, seasoning, and finishing with green onions and any optional ingredients. This dish is famous for being flavorful, colorful, and texturally varied, making it a staple of Chinese cuisine and takeout menus worldwide.
