Yangzhou fried rice is a classic Chinese dish celebrated for its colorful mix of ingredients and satisfying flavor. Known for combining fluffy rice with shrimp, pork, vegetables, and egg, it offers both protein and vegetables in one convenient plate. This dish is popular in homes and restaurants alike for its balance of textures—lightly crispy rice, tender meats, and soft scrambled eggs—all coated with a savory soy-based seasoning. Whether served as a main dish or a side, Yangzhou fried rice is both versatile and easy to make, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a party platter.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped

• 1/2 cup cooked BBQ pork (char siu), diced

• 1/4 cup peas

• 1/4 cup carrots, finely diced

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Heat cooking oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.

• Scramble the eggs and set aside once cooked.

• Add chopped shrimp and BBQ pork to the pan, stir-fry until warmed through.

• Add peas, carrots, and green onions, cooking until tender.

• Stir in the cooked rice, breaking apart any clumps.

• Return the scrambled eggs to the pan.

• Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing everything evenly.

• Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 3g

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Yangzhou fried rice stands out due to its beautiful combination of vibrant colors, textures, and savory taste. Unlike simpler fried rice recipes, this version uses both shrimp and char siu pork, offering a layered umami flavor. The dish also includes vegetables such as peas and carrots, which add subtle sweetness and a pop of color. What really sets this recipe apart is the method of stir-frying each ingredient separately before combining everything at the end. This step keeps each component flavorful and prevents them from becoming soggy or overcooked. The final dish looks visually appealing thanks to the variety of ingredients, making it perfect for serving at family gatherings or as a centerpiece for a meal. It’s also a flexible recipe—you can easily swap proteins or adjust vegetables to match your preferences or dietary needs while keeping the core structure intact.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Every ingredient in Yangzhou fried rice contributes both flavor and nutritional benefits. The shrimp provides lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. BBQ pork (char siu) brings more protein along with iron and B vitamins that support energy levels. Eggs are another protein source and add healthy fats and essential nutrients such as choline, important for brain health. Peas and carrots not only brighten the dish visually but also add fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Carrots, in particular, are rich in beta-carotene, which supports vision and immune health. Green onions supply vitamin K and sulfur compounds that promote healthy digestion and metabolism. The soy sauce brings umami flavor while offering trace minerals, though using a low-sodium variety helps keep the dish heart-healthy. The use of day-old rice is not just for texture—it also helps reduce waste and makes use of leftovers, adding practicality to the recipe. Cooking oil used in moderation provides necessary fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the other ingredients.

Cooking Tips

To get the best results with Yangzhou fried rice, start by ensuring you have cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together, while day-old rice has a drier texture perfect for stir-frying. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate it for a few hours to cool and dry slightly. When cooking, use a large wok or skillet to allow space for all the ingredients to move freely without overcrowding. High heat is important for achieving a slightly crispy texture on the rice while preserving the tenderness of the shrimp and pork. Stir-fry ingredients in stages: first cook the eggs and set them aside, then stir-fry meats and vegetables separately. This technique keeps the flavors distinct and prevents overcooking. Don’t overuse soy sauce—adding just enough ensures the rice stays fluffy instead of becoming wet or mushy. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning carefully with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can add a dash of sesame oil or white pepper towards the end of cooking. Always use fresh, high-quality shrimp and properly cooked char siu pork to maintain food safety and flavor integrity.

Serving Suggestions

Yangzhou fried rice is incredibly versatile and can be served as a standalone meal or alongside other dishes. When serving as a main dish, pair it with light soups such as miso or clear vegetable broth to balance the meal’s richness. It also complements dishes like steamed dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, or crispy spring rolls. For family dinners, serve it in a large bowl or platter, garnished with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for presentation. If preparing for a party, portion the fried rice into small bowls or cups for easy individual servings. This dish pairs well with both hot and cold beverages. Green tea or jasmine tea are classic choices that cleanse the palate between bites. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve iced tea or lightly sweetened lemonade. If pairing with wine, opt for a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the savory notes of the dish. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave. If reheating, add a splash of water or a small amount of oil to restore moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.

Conclusion

Yangzhou fried rice represents the best qualities of Chinese home cooking: it’s flavorful, colorful, and easy to customize. Its combination of proteins, vegetables, and eggs creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies both in terms of taste and nutrition. What sets this dish apart from simpler fried rice recipes is its inclusion of both shrimp and char siu pork, along with the methodical stir-frying technique that keeps each ingredient distinct yet harmoniously blended. This approach creates a balance of textures—fluffy rice, tender meats, and crisp vegetables—that appeals to a wide range of palates. Beyond its delicious flavor, the dish is practical for home cooks, making good use of leftover rice and allowing flexibility with ingredients based on availability and dietary needs. Its nutrient content supports a balanced diet, offering protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber all in one bowl. Whether served as a quick weekday dinner or as part of a festive meal, Yangzhou fried rice consistently delivers both comfort and satisfaction. Preparing it at home ensures freshness and control over seasoning, while also allowing for creativity in ingredient choices. For anyone looking to expand their home cooking repertoire, mastering this dish is both rewarding and straightforward, providing a reliable go-to recipe for years to come.