When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with salmon fried rice. This dish beautifully fuses the wholesome flavors of tender salmon with the satisfying texture of fried rice, creating a guilt-free yet indulgent meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, salmon fried rice is versatile, nourishing, and brimming with flavor.
Why We Love This Salmon Fried Rice Recipe
What’s not to love about salmon fried rice? First and foremost, it showcases the rich, buttery flavor of salmon. Cooked to tender perfection and perfectly flaked, the salmon melds seamlessly with the rice and veggies, resulting in a balanced dish that’s bursting with flavor.
The use of cauliflower rice adds a healthy twist, providing a low-carb alternative that still elevates the dish’s texture. Not only does it absorb flavors well, but it also contributes additional nutrients. Plus, this dish is incredibly easy to customize based on your preferences—whether you prefer a spicy kick with Sriracha or a more subdued flavor, the options are endless.
Ingredients for Salmon Fried Rice
To whip up this delicious salmon fried rice, you’ll need the following ingredients. Familiarize yourself with these components to ensure a successful cooking experience.
- 4 ounces wild salmon fillet, skinned
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, divided
- 1 large or 2 small scallions, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 1/2 cup cooked cold rice (preferably brown short grain)
- 3/4 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce or gluten-free Tamari
- Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce (optional, for serving)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to put them together for a delicious dish!
How to Make Salmon Fried Rice
Creating salmon fried rice is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a remarkable dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these step-by-step directions to reach culinary success.
- Cook the Salmon: Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the wild salmon fillet in the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Flake the salmon into small chunks using a fork.
- Prep for Cooking: Wipe the skillet clean, as you want a fresh surface for the next steps. Add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil to the skillet and heat it over medium-high. Next, add the scallion whites and sauté them for about a minute until they become fragrant.
- Fry the Rice: Now it’s time to add the cold rice. Spread it evenly in the skillet, cooking it without stirring for about 2 to 3 minutes. This method will slightly crisp up the bottom for a delightful texture.
- Incorporate Cauliflower Rice: After the rice is slightly crispy, introduce the cauliflower rice into the mix. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 2 to 3 minutes until well combined.
- Add the Egg: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet to create space. Crack the beaten egg onto the other side and stir it continuously for about 30 to 60 seconds, until it’s fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the egg is cooked, mix it thoroughly with the rice mixture. It should blend in seamlessly and bring a wonderful creaminess to the dish.
- Final Touches: Gently stir in the flaked salmon, soy sauce, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Serve: Garnish your salmon fried rice with the scallion greens and serve immediately. For an extra kick, consider drizzling some Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce on the top, if desired.
How to Serve Salmon Fried Rice
When it comes to presentation, salmon fried rice can be a showstopper. Serve this dish in a shallow bowl or plate, allowing the colorful ingredients to shine. The vibrant green of the scallion tops, the rich pink of the salmon, and the golden hue of the egg will make it visually appealing.
For those looking to elevate the experience further, consider pairing your salmon fried rice with a refreshing side salad, featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, a cup of miso soup can complement the flavors beautifully, creating a full meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Garnish with sesame seeds or a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra touch.
Expert Tips for Preparing Salmon Fried Rice
While salmon fried rice is relatively simple to make, a few expert tips can help you achieve the best results possible. Here are some to keep in mind:
- Use Cold Rice: For optimal texture, ensure that you use cold rice that has been previously cooked. This prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
- Cooking the Salmon: If you’re in a hurry, you can also bake or grill the salmon beforehand. Just ensure that it’s cooked through before flaking it into the dish.
- Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add in other vegetables you love or need to use up. Bell peppers, peas, or even carrots can be excellent additions.
- Watch the Heat: Keep a close eye on the heat while cooking, particularly when frying the rice. It should sizzle, but too high of a heat can burn the ingredients.
- Taste While You Cook: Adjust the soy sauce according to your preference. If you like a saltier flavor, add a bit more to taste.
How to Store Salmon Fried Rice
If you find yourself with leftovers—though we doubt that will happen—you can store salmon fried rice for another delicious meal. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the rice and keep it from getting dry.
Variations of Salmon Fried Rice
One of the beautiful aspects of salmon fried rice is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try to keep your meals exciting and tailored to your taste:
- Spicy Salmon Fried Rice: For a fiery twist, add diced jalapeños or a splash of spicy chili oil when cooking the scallions.
- Herbed Salmon Fried Rice: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, towards the end of cooking to add brightness and freshness.
- Coconut Salmon Fried Rice: For a tropical flair, use coconut oil instead of sesame oil and add a touch of coconut milk when stirring in the rice.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the salmon with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version, while maintaining the same delicious flavors.
- Mango and Salmon Fried Rice: Add diced ripe mango for a sweet burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish.
FAQs About Salmon Fried Rice
What is salmon fried rice? Salmon fried rice is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines cooked rice, flaked salmon, vegetables, and seasonings, all stir-fried together. It’s a quick meal option that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Can I use different types of rice? Absolutely! While brown short grain rice provides a hearty texture, you can use jasmine rice, sushi rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
How can I make salmon fried rice gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free Tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and ensure that your other ingredients do not contain gluten.
What can I serve with salmon fried rice? This dish pairs well with a refreshing salad, steamed vegetables, or even a side of miso soup.
Salmon Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ounces wild salmon fillet, skinned Cooked until flaky
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, divided Used for cooking
- 1 large or 2 small scallions, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated) For garnish and flavor
- 1/2 cup cooked cold rice (preferably brown short grain) Use previously cooked and cooled rice
- 3/4 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen) Adds health benefits and texture
- 1 large egg, beaten Provides creaminess
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce or gluten-free Tamari For flavor; adjust to taste
- to taste Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce Optional, for serving
Instructions
Cooking the Salmon
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the wild salmon fillet for about 5 minutes on each side until it flakes easily. Remove from skillet and set aside. Flake into small chunks.
Preparing the Rice
- Wipe the skillet clean, add the remaining sesame oil, and heat over medium-high. Add the scallion whites and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cold rice to the skillet and spread it evenly without stirring for 2 to 3 minutes to crisp up the bottom.
- Introduce the cauliflower rice and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 2 to 3 minutes until well combined.
- Push the rice mixture to one side, crack the beaten egg onto the other side, and stir continuously for 30 to 60 seconds until fully cooked.
- Mix the cooked egg thoroughly with the rice mixture, then stir in the flaked salmon, soy sauce, and remaining sesame oil.
Serving
- Garnish the salmon fried rice with the scallion greens and serve immediately. Drizzle with Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce if desired.
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