St. Louis Fried Rice is a flavorful twist on a classic favorite that brings together bold spices and fresh ingredients in every bite. This dish combines the comforting texture of fried rice with a unique blend of seasonings inspired by the vibrant food culture of St. Louis. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
We love how this recipe balances savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors while keeping things simple and approachable. Whether you’re a fried rice fan or looking to try something new, this St. Louis version is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Let’s dive into making a dish that’s both delicious and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
Ingredients
To create our St. Louis Fried Rice, we gather a mix of fresh vegetables, proteins, and signature seasonings that blend perfectly to deliver that bold and comforting flavor. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the essential components.
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups day-old cooked white rice (preferably chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken (leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup diced smoked sausage (adds the classic St. Louis smokiness)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce provides that signature spicy and slightly sweet flavor you expect from our St. Louis Fried Rice.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Use low-sodium for balanced saltiness |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adds depth and umami |
| Sweet chili sauce | 1 tablespoon | For subtle sweet heat |
| Hot sauce (optional) | 1 teaspoon | Adjust for desired spiciness |
Optional Toppings
Customize your fried rice with these flavorful additions:
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced jalapeños
- A drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
With these ingredients, we set the stage to build layers of bold, savory, and spicy flavors in our delicious St. Louis Fried Rice.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our St. Louis Fried Rice perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures efficiency, safety, and the best possible texture and flavor in every bite.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Wok or Large Skillet: We prefer using a wok for its high heat retention and even cooking surface, which helps achieve the authentic fried rice texture. A large non-stick skillet works well as an alternative.
- Spatula: Use a sturdy, flat spatula or wooden spoon to stir and toss ingredients constantly, preventing sticking or burning.
- Mixing Bowl: For whisking beaten eggs and combining sauces prior to adding to the rice.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurement of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and seasonings balances the bold flavor profile.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing cooked chicken, smoked sausage, onions, and chopping optional fresh toppings like green onions and jalapeños.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Rice Cooker: Prepares day-old white rice evenly, ideal for fried rice.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: To rinse frozen peas and carrots easily.
- Serving Spoon: To portion out hot St. Louis Fried Rice neatly.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wok or Large Skillet | High heat cooking and stir-frying | Essential for authentic texture |
| Spatula | Stirring and tossing ingredients | Use heat-resistant material |
| Mixing Bowl | Beating eggs and mixing sauces | Medium size recommended |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate ingredient measurement | Standard sets required |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Preparing proteins and vegetables | Sharp knife for precise cuts |
| Rice Cooker (Optional) | Cooking day-old rice evenly | Ensures perfect rice texture |
| Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional) | Rinsing frozen veggies | Easy and quick preparation |
| Serving Spoon | Portioning final dish | Stylish presentation advantage |
By gathering these essential tools before beginning, we set ourselves up for a smooth and enjoyable cooking process while making our flavorful St. Louis Fried Rice.
Preparation
To achieve the perfect St Louis Fried Rice, proper preparation is key. We’ll guide you through each step to ensure every ingredient is ready for quick and seamless cooking.
Preparing the Rice
Using the right rice sets the base for our dish. We recommend:
- Day-old cooked white rice: This prevents clumping and sogginess.
- Refrigerate freshly cooked rice for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
- Break up any clumps gently with a fork before cooking.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Rice type | Long-grain white rice preferred |
| Cooking tip | Use less water than usual for firm rice |
| Cooling | Spread rice on a tray to cool quickly |
| Storage | Refrigerate in airtight container |
“Cold rice absorbs sauces better and yields that signature fried rice texture we love.”
Chopping Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add both color and crunch. For our St Louis Fried Rice, we need:
- Onion – finely diced
- Garlic – minced
- Frozen peas and carrots – thawed and drained
We suggest these prep tips:
- Dice onions into small uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Mince garlic finely to distribute flavor evenly.
- Thaw frozen peas and carrots completely, then pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Preparing Protein
Protein choices enhance richness and depth. We use:
- Diced cooked chicken
- Smoked sausage, sliced into thin rounds
Here’s how to prep:
- Dice chicken into bite-sized cubes; leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly.
- Slice smoked sausage thinly for even heating.
- For best flavor, cook or reheat proteins separately before combining.
Pro tip: Pre-cooking proteins ensures they stay tender without overcooking during stir-frying.
By following this step-by-step preparation, we lay the foundation for a flavorful and authentic St Louis Fried Rice experience.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft the perfect St Louis Fried Rice, ensuring each component is cooked to perfection while layering bold flavors.
Cooking the Protein
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced cooked chicken and sliced smoked sausage to the hot oil.
- Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the protein edges turn slightly golden and are heated through.
- Remove the protein from the wok and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Tip: Browning the protein first develops a deeper savory flavor that infuses the dish with richness.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add 1 more tablespoon of vegetable oil, followed by finely diced onion and minced garlic.
- Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add frozen peas and carrots. Continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and slightly tender but still have a crunch.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
Combining Rice and Sauce
- Add 4 cups of day-old cooked white rice to the wok. Use the back of your spatula to break up any clumps.
- Return the cooked chicken and smoked sausage to the wok.
- Pour in the sauce mixture, made from:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Oyster Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sweet Chili Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Optional Hot Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
- Toss the ingredients vigorously to ensure the rice is evenly coated with sauce and the ingredients are well distributed.
Remember: Even coating with sauce is key for the authentic St Louis Fried Rice flavor profile.
Final Fry and Toss
- Push the stir-fried mixture to one side of the wok.
- Pour 2 beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble gently until just cooked.
- Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice, proteins, and vegetables.
- Stir-fry everything together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to develop a slight crispiness on the bottom.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional sauce if needed.
- Garnish with optional toppings like chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the experience of our St. Louis Fried Rice, we recommend serving it with complementary dishes and thoughtful garnishes that highlight its bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Pairing Recommendations
- Light Asian-Inspired Soups
A clear broth like hot and sour soup or miso soup balances the rich and spicy notes of the fried rice without overpowering the palate.
- Crispy Vegetable Sides
Serve with spring rolls or crispy tempura vegetables for textural contrast that adds a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Salads
A simple cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds introduces a refreshing tang that cuts through the savory depth of the dish.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal and Flavor
We suggest these finishing touches to make our St. Louis Fried Rice pop both in flavor and appearance:
| Garnish | Purpose | Usage Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped green onions | Adds freshness and mild bite | Sprinkle generously just before serving |
| Toasted sesame seeds | Provides nutty aroma and crunch | Toast lightly to enhance flavor |
| Fresh cilantro | Brightens the dish with herbaceous note | Use whole leaves for visual impact |
| Sliced jalapeños | Introduces a spicy kick | Add according to heat preference |
| Drizzle of sriracha | Boosts heat and tanginess | Apply sparingly for balance |
Beverage Pairings
- Iced Jasmine tea or cold lager complements the spicy and savory elements by refreshing the palate between bites.
- For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lime works well to keep the meal light and enjoyable.
Serving Tips
- Plate the fried rice on warm dishes to maintain heat.
- Use a wide shallow bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients and garnishes.
- Share family-style for a casual and inviting dining atmosphere.
By thoughtfully pairing and garnishing, we elevate the vibrant flavors of our St. Louis Fried Rice into a memorable and satisfying meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy St Louis Fried Rice with minimal effort on busy days, preparing key components ahead of time is essential. Here are reliable make-ahead tips that maintain the dish’s vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.
Prepare and Store Day-Old Rice Properly
Using day-old cooked rice is crucial for preventing sogginess. We recommend:
- Cooking rice slightly firm.
- Spreading it on a baking sheet to cool quickly.
- Refrigerating uncovered for 1 hour, then covering tightly.
| Step | Action | Time/Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Cook rice | Slightly firm, long-grain | As per package |
| Cool rice | Spread on tray, room temp | 15-20 minutes |
| Refrigerate uncovered | Promote drying | 1 hour |
| Store rice | Cover tightly after drying | Up to 24 hours |
Pre-Cook and Slice Proteins
Pre-cooking diced chicken and smoked sausage ahead saves time during assembly:
- Grill or sauté chicken until golden (internal temperature 165°F).
- Slice smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Store both separately in airtight containers.
Chop and Portion Vegetables
Dice onions, mince garlic, and thaw frozen peas and carrots the day before:
- Store chopped vegetables in sealed containers or zip bags.
- Keep garlic and onion separate to preserve flavor intensity.
Mix Sauces in Advance
Combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet chili sauce, and optional hot sauce ahead blends flavors well:
- Mix and store in a small jar in the refrigerator.
- Shake well before using.
“Preparing these components in advance allows us to quickly bring all the flavors together with just a quick stir-fry when hunger strikes.”
Reheating and Final Assembly Tips
- Use a hot wok or skillet for a quick flare-up that seals in freshness.
- Add cold or room temperature ingredients directly to the hot pan.
- Stir-fry until heated through and slightly crisp for best texture.
By adopting these make-ahead techniques, we efficiently capture the bold and fresh qualities that make St Louis Fried Rice an unforgettable dish, ready to enjoy in minutes.
Conclusion
St. Louis Fried Rice brings a fresh and exciting twist to a classic favorite. Its bold flavors and quick preparation make it a perfect go-to for any occasion. With just a few key ingredients and simple steps, we can create a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile.
By customizing the proteins, veggies, and spices, we can tailor this recipe to suit our tastes and dietary needs. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, St. Louis Fried Rice delivers a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Let’s get cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is St. Louis Fried Rice?
St. Louis Fried Rice is a flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, featuring bold spices, fresh vegetables, smoked sausage, and chicken, combined with a spicy and slightly sweet sauce. The dish is quick to prepare and offers a comforting texture ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
What key ingredients are needed for St. Louis Fried Rice?
You’ll need day-old cooked white rice, diced cooked chicken, smoked sausage, frozen peas and carrots, onion, garlic, beaten eggs, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet chili sauce, and optional hot sauce. Fresh garnishes like green onions and cilantro enhance the dish.
Why should I use day-old rice for this recipe?
Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, which prevents clumping and sogginess during stir-frying. Using cooled rice helps achieve the perfect texture and allows the flavors to coat the grains evenly.
What cooking equipment do I need?
Essential tools include a wok or large skillet, a sturdy spatula, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, a knife, and a cutting board. Optional items like a rice cooker and serving spoon can also be helpful.
Can I customize the protein in St. Louis Fried Rice?
Yes, the recipe is flexible. While chicken and smoked sausage are traditional, you can substitute with shrimp, tofu, beef, or any proteins you prefer to suit your taste.
How do I make the sauce for St. Louis Fried Rice?
The sauce combines soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet chili sauce, and optional hot sauce. Mix these ingredients in advance to add a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors to the dish.
What are the best side dishes to serve with St. Louis Fried Rice?
Pair it with light Asian-inspired soups, crispy vegetable sides like spring rolls or tempura, and fresh salads. These complement the dish while adding texture and flavor variety.
Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook and store rice, pre-cook proteins, chop vegetables, and mix sauces in advance. This make-ahead prep allows for quick assembly and cooking when you’re ready to eat.
How do I reheat leftover St. Louis Fried Rice without losing texture?
Reheat in a hot wok or skillet, stirring frequently to warm evenly and maintain the firmness of the rice and vegetables. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.
What garnishes enhance St. Louis Fried Rice?
Chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a drizzle of sriracha add color, texture, and extra flavor to enhance the visual appeal and taste.