Ham Fried Rice

By:

Thomas

Published:

March 26, 2026

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Ham Fried Rice is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the savory flavor of ham with the comforting essence of fried rice. Each bite bursts with a wonderful combination of textures—from the tender rice to the crunchy veggies, all enhanced by the rich umami notes of soy sauce and a hint of nutty sesame oil. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delicious experience that fills your home with an enticing aroma and offers a satisfying taste that keeps you coming back for more.

I first discovered the magic of making Ham Fried Rice during a busy weeknight when the fridge was looking a little bare, but I had some leftover ham and rice on hand. What was initially a necessity turned into one of my go-to comfort dishes! This recipe is incredibly versatile—perfect for those times when you need a quick meal without sacrificing flavor. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients, making it as much about great taste as it is about practicality.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20-30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoky ham, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces creates a mouthwatering full-bodied taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The bright colors of the veggies and green onions make for an inviting presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even breakfast—anytime you’re in the mood for some comforting, delicious rice.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt to suit your dietary preferences with veggie swaps or low-sodium soy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided use: Essential for sautéing and adding flavor.
2 cups ham, cut into 1/2 inch pieces: Adds heartiness and a smoky flavor. You can substitute with leftover chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
2/3 cup onion, chopped: Provides a wonderful base flavor. Any onion works, but yellow or green onions are fantastic.
1/2 cup carrots, peeled, quartered, and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and color. Frozen carrots can work if you’re in a pinch!
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed: A pop of color and a sweet burst in each bite.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: For aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best, but jarred can work in a hurry.
2 eggs, lightly beaten: Creates a fluffy, rich texture in the rice. You could omit these for a vegan version.
3 cups cooked long-grain white rice: Cold, day-old rice is best for stir-frying, as it prevents clumping.
3 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce: The key seasoning for that classic fried rice taste. You can replace it with tamari for a gluten-free option.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty depth of flavor; a little goes a long way.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for adjusting flavors.
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced: Brightens the dish with fresh flavor and adds a lovely crunch.

How to Make Ham Fried Rice

Heat the Oil: Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Brown the Ham: Place the ham in a single layer in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until browned.
Keep Warm: Remove the ham from the pan and transfer it to a plate. Cover it with foil to keep warm.
Sauté the Veggies: Add 1 teaspoon of oil to the pan. Stir in the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Transfer to Plate: Remove the sautéed vegetables from the pan and add them to the plate with the ham, covering to keep warm.
Scramble the Eggs: Pour the remaining teaspoon of oil into the pan. Scramble the beaten eggs, cooking for about 3 minutes until fully cooked and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cold cooked rice, ham, sautéed vegetables, and peas to the pan. Stir everything together well.
Season and Heat: Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, cooking until everything is heated through and well combined, about 4-5 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top and serve hot, enjoying every delicious bite.

Storing & Reheating

For optimal freshness, store any leftover Ham Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to hold it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply heat it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness. While reheated rice may lose some texture, a quick stir and touch of seasoning can bring it back to life.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the ham. You want it nicely browned but not dried out.
Ensure your cooked rice is cold for the best stir-frying results; fresh rice can become mushy.
Don’t skip on the sesame oil; it really elevates the flavors.
Consider adding other veggies like bell peppers or sprouts for extra nutrition and flavor.
If making ahead, store vegetables and ham separately from the rice to keep textures intact until you’re ready to cook.

It’s hard not to appreciate a dish like Ham Fried Rice that is so simple yet so packed with flavor. This recipe not only caters to those evenings when you’re rushing home from work but also allows you to be creative with what ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to adjust the components to your liking—thrown in some extra veggies or opt for a different protein; the possibilities are endless!

Give this Ham Fried Rice a try and see just how satisfying and delicious a homemade meal can be. Don’t forget to savor the little moments while you’re cooking and enjoy your tasty creation!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice for this recipe?

No, using uncooked rice won’t work well because it needs to be pre-cooked to achieve that perfect fried texture. Use leftover or day-old rice for best results.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have toasted sesame oil, a splash of olive oil can work, but keep in mind you won’t achieve that signature nutty flavor. You can also use extra vegetable oil and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the ham and consider adding additional vegetables or tofu for protein. You can also use a plant-based egg substitute if you like.

What kind of ham should I use?

Any kind of cooked ham works great, whether it’s leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or even smoked ham for an extra flavor kick. Just ensure it’s cut into small pieces for even cooking.