Name: Vietnamese Fried Rice with Ham, Peas, and Tomato Paste Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1/2 cup diced ham (pre-chopped recommended); 1 cup frozen peas; 2 1/2 cups day-old cooked jasmine rice; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp fish sauce; 2 tsp soy sauce (all purpose or light soy, not dark soy); 1/4 tsp white sugar; 2 eggs, whisked

Introduction

Red Vietnamese Fried Rice is a vibrant and flavorful twist on classic fried rice. Infused with tomato paste, garlic, and savory sauces, it’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for using up day-old rice. The addition of ham, peas, and scrambled eggs creates a balanced meal full of color and texture.

The image shows a close-up of fried rice in a black pan, with one layer of reddish-brown cooked rice mixed with peas, scrambled eggs, and small pieces of meat, spread evenly throughout. The peas are bright green, scattered all over the rice, while the scrambled eggs are yellow and fluffy, broken into chunks. The meat pieces are small and dark pink. A wooden spatula is partially visible on the right side, scooping some rice. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Instructions

Step 1: Melt most of the butter in a large non-stick skillet over high heat, reserving a small amount for the eggs.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 10 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the diced ham and cook for 30 seconds to warm through.

Step 4: Add the frozen peas and continue stirring for another 30 seconds.

Step 5: Add the day-old jasmine rice and tomato paste to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes to combine and heat evenly.

Step 6: Pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and white sugar. Cook for 1 minute more, allowing the rice to develop a slight caramelized texture.

Step 7: Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Melt the reserved butter in the cleared space, then pour in the whisked eggs. Scramble gently until just set.

Step 8: Toss the scrambled eggs through the rice mixture, then remove from heat and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice that has been refrigerated and dried out slightly for best texture and to prevent clumping.

Substitute ham with cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.

Add chopped green onions or fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh finish.

Adjust fish sauce and soy sauce quantities to suit your taste preference for saltiness and umami.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

It’s best to use day-old rice as fresh rice is usually too moist and can result in clumpy or mushy fried rice. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry a bit before frying.

Is soy sauce necessary for this recipe?

While soy sauce adds important umami flavor and color, you can adjust or omit it based on dietary preferences. Fish sauce contributes much of the savory depth, so combining both creates the best balance.