Panda Express is not here to play regarding delectable dishes; their fried rice is a worthy example. While you can stop and eat this delicious meal, you can also make it from scratch.
Don’t start thinking it’s tedious to prepare this meal because it isn’t. With some ingredients you can grab in your kitchen and a little knowledge in cooking, you’ll nail it like a pro.
You shouldn’t always depend on dining out when you can bring everyone to the table to sit and enjoy a copycat Panda Express Fried Rice that is as good as the original. We’ll be sharing everything you need to know about this recipe here if you read further.
What Makes Panda Express Fried Rice Different From Other Fried Rice?
Anything can make a difference, right? And the Panda Express fried rice recipe is no exception. How you control your heat, the ingredients you use, and the cooking style. Every step matters and will definitely show when the dish is served. Every bite confirms that you have just made the beloved Panda Express fried rice recipe if you combine sesame oil, fluffy eggs, and mixed vegetables, and follow the required cooking procedure.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Panda Express Fried Rice
You need the following ingredients to make Panda Express Fried Rice:
- Jasmine rice or large/medium grain rice
- Coarse sea salt
- Shitake mushroom bouillon or chicken bouillon
- Large eggs
- Light soy sauce (for a gluten-free sauce) or use coconut aminos
- White pepper and Garlic powder (optional)
- Toasted sesame oil
- Dark soy sauce
- Avocado oil or peanut oil
- Coconut brown sugar
- Green onion
- Frozen mixed vegetables
Quick Prep Tips Before Cooking
Preparing your ingredients gets you ready for quick cooking. Here are some tips before cooking your Panda Express-style fried rice at home.
- A day-old or leftover rice is perfect for a Panda Express fried rice recipe. So, cook your rice ahead, for best results.
- Prepare your vegetables for stir-fry. Cut them to your desired shapes and put them aside.
- Make scrambled eggs, and also put them aside
- Mix the sauce ingredients in a single bowl, ensuring they are ready to go into your Panda Express-style Fried Rice.
- Whisk your eggs until well-beaten for later use.
- Measure out your seasonings and spices to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
- Stir-fry the rice in a big pan, and remember to add enough oil to achieve a non-stick texture.
Step by Step: How to Cook Panda Express Fried Rice at Home
You can cook the Panda Express-inspired fried rice in 15 minutes. If you have prepared all the ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
- Prepare Ingredients You Will Use for Cooking: Don’t just start cooking your Panda Express Fried Rice, without prepping what you’ll need, including pre-cooked rice, eggs, greens, sauce, and spices. Set aside in separate bowls and get ready to cook.
- Cook the Eggs: Gently stir your eggs in a hot pan for about 10 seconds to make them soft and scrambled. Use low or medium heat for this process.
- Stir-fry the rice: Add rice to the pan, and use a spatula to toss and stir-fry it in a scooping motion until the Pan sizzles. Set your heat on medium-high to achieve this.
- Add Seasoning and Veggie for Flavor: Add flavor to the rice by introducing the seasoning mixture and frozen vegetables when the grains start popping, then toss for another 10 seconds.
- Mix in the sauce: Add your sauce and push the rice mixture aside. Fold everything in, including the rice, sauce, and veggies, to coat evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Add the scrambled eggs to the pan and mix them with the rice and pre-cut veggies. Take the pan off the heat, transfer your rice to a serving plate, garnish with more greens, and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Panda Express Fried Rice
When recreating Panda Express fried rice, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Avoid Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Using freshly cooked rice for your Panda Express Fried Rice makes it soggy. Rather use a day-old rice which is dry and easier to separate, resulting in a texture similar to the restaurant’s original dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Don’t put everything together and begin to cook. You can reduce the rice in the pan, to prevent steaming, or use a large wok to give the ingredients room to move.
- Avoid Adding Too Much Soy Sauce: Adding too much soy sauce can make your fried rice salty. Use it sparingly, and consider adding it towards the end of the cooking.
FAQs on How to Make Panda Express Fried Rice at Home
What type of rice works best for Panda Express Fried Rice
Day-old rice works best for Panda Express-style Fried Rice. These rice types are firm and drier, ideal for stir-frying and achieving a wok-fried texture.
Can I use brown rice for a healthier version
Yes, Brown rice is a healthier alternative to copycat Panda Express Fried Rice. Compared to white rice, brown rice adds more nutrients and fiber.
How do I keep my fried rice from getting soggy?
Using previously cooked rice, avoiding too much sauce, and stir-frying on high heat can prevent your fried rice from getting soggy.
What vegetables are used in Panda Express Fried Rice?
Peas and carrots are the typical vegetables used for Panda Express Fried Rice.
Conclusion
If you read to the end, you probably planned to give Panda Express-style fried rice a try. Now, you don’t need to do too much to impress your family and friends. Let your fried rice leave everyone asking for more and even copying the recipe, if they want. Remember that Panda Express fried rice is set apart by its ingredients and method of cooking. Next time you crave this delicacy. Make sure to cook it by yourself.
