Fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that is beloved around the world. At its heart, fried rice is a simple combination of cooked rice, vegetables, and protein that is stir-fried together in a wok. But across different regions of China, fried rice takes on delightful variations based on local ingredients and cooking styles. When exploring the question “What do Chinese people eat fried rice with?”, we find a diverse range of side dishes, condiments, and cooking variations that reflect the breadth of Chinese cuisine.
Common Side Dishes
Across China, certain side dishes are commonly paired with fried rice. Here are some of the most popular:
Soup
A light soup is often served alongside fried rice. Egg drop soup and wonton soup are two common choices. The soup provides moisture and balance against the saltiness and oiliness of the fried rice.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Bright, crispy stir-fried veggies like bok choy, broccoli, or green beans add color and freshness. They also provide a lighter contrast to the heavier fried rice.
Sautéed Meat
For non-vegetarians, slices of sautéed meat like chicken, pork, beef, or shrimp provide added protein. Meat eater or not, these sautéed meats add extra flavor and textural variety.
Steamed Fish
In coastal regions like Shanghai, steamed fish is a favored pairing. The lightness of the fish balances the fried rice perfectly.
Pickles
Sour and pungent Chinese pickles made from vegetables like cabbage, radish, and cucumber provide tangy crunch. They cut through the richness of oily fried rice.
Tofu
For vegetarians, pan-fried tofu squares can substitute for meat as a protein pairing. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they soak up the flavors of the fried rice.
Regional Pairings
While those basic side dishes pair commonly with fried rice across China, certain regions have their own beloved pairings that reflect local cuisine.
Guangdong Province
In Cantonese cuisine, fried rice is often served with roast meats like soy sauce chicken, roast duck, or char siu pork. The tender meat and crispy skin provide irresistible bites between mouthfuls of fried rice.
Sichuan Province
In Sichuan, fried rice is paired with classic Sichuan dishes like mapo tofu, dandan noodles, or fish in hot chili oil. The tongue-numbing heat complements the fried rice’s richness.
Shanghai
Locals in Shanghai frequently enjoy fried rice with xiao long bao soup dumplings and green onion pancakes. The duo of dumplings and pancakes make perfect complements.
Beijing
In the capital, fried rice is matched with Beijing’s beloved pancakes—zhajiangmian pancakes or jianbing stuffed pancakes. The wheaten crunch pairs perfectly with fried rice.
Condiments and Sauces
Fried rice also meets its match with various condiments and sauces. Here are some popular options:
Soy Sauce
A drizzle of regular soy sauce or dark soy sauce adds saltiness and savoriness. Light soy highlights the rice’s flavor, while dark soy’s caramel notes bring deeper complexity.
Chili Oil
For spicy lovers, a dash of chili oil made from aromatics like Sichuan peppercorns, dried chilies, and sesame oil makes the fried rice pop.
Chinese Black Vinegar
The smoky umami of Chinese black vinegar cuts through grease and pairs beautifully with fried rice. It adds a nearly addictive hint of acidity.
Oyster Sauce
Added toward the end of frying, the rich umami layer of oyster sauce amplifies flavor. Its hint of sweetness balances salty soy sauce.
Hot Pot Dipping Sauce
In China’s south, dipping fried rice balls into hot pot dipping sauce is a novel way to enjoy the dish. The sauce’s sesame, chili, and garlic add excitement.
Cooking Variations
Fried rice techniques also vary across China’s regions, changing the dish’s final pairing possibilities.
Beijing Fried Rice
Beijing style fries rice in gentle heat, resulting in fluffy individual grains. Served plain, Beijing fried rice highlights the rice’s flavor.
Yangzhou Fried Rice
Yangzhou fried rice fries the rice first, yielding a crispy socarrat crust. Shellfish and light seasoning allow the crust’s flavor to shine.
Taiwanese Fried Rice
Taiwanese fried rice is notable for its use of pork floss, sausages, and pickled veggies. Deep savory umami makes ideal pairings.
Shrimp Fried Rice
When shrimp is fried into the rice, the sweet brininess infuses each bite. Vegetables and aromatics complement the shrimp.
Scrambled Egg Fried Rice
Stirring scrambled egg into fried rice creates a rich, moist, custard-like texture. Simple sides allow the egg flavor to take the spotlight.
Conclusion
When exploring what Chinese people love to eat their beloved fried rice with, we discover a diverse range of creative pairings. From refreshing vegetables, savory meats, and bright sauces to cooking techniques that inform ideal pairings, the possibilities are endless. Fried rice is the canvas for Chinese cooks to paint with local flavors, specialty ingredients, and regional style. Every bite of fried rice in China offers new delight and discovery.