Name: Delicious XO Fried Rice with Char Siu in 10 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Peanut Oil (substitute with any neutral oil if needed); 4 cups Leftover Rice (chilled rice prevents clumping); 1 large Yellow Onion (diced); 1 tablespoon Ginger (freshly minced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 stalks Green Onions (sliced; use whites for cooking); 1 lb Char Siu Pork (diced); 4 large Eggs (beaten); 1/4 cup XO Sauce (homemade or store-bought)

As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with the tantalizing scent of ginger and garlic, I can’t help but feel a sense of adventure. Tonight’s star? A Quick Gourmet XO Fried Rice with Char Siu that brings a delicious twist to my usual weeknight dinner. In just 10 minutes, I’ll transform leftover char siu into a dish that’s not only quick to make but also oozes gourmet comfort food vibes. The mingling of textures—from crispy rice to tender bits of pork—paired with the luxurious umami of XO sauce creates a delightful meal sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something special without the fuss. Ready to dive into this culinary journey with me? Let’s get cooking!

Why is XO Fried Rice a Must-Try?

Quick Gourmet Creation: In just 10 minutes, transform leftovers into a stunning dish that feels fancy yet effortless.
Flavor Explosion: The luxurious XO sauce combined with fresh ginger and garlic elevates your fried rice experience to new heights.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of proteins or veggies, making it perfect for whatever you have on hand—like using chicken from last night’s dinner or incorporating a crunchy vegetable medley.
Crispy and Tender: The balance of crispy rice and tender char siu creates a mouthwatering texture that you’ll crave again and again.
Impressive Yet Simple: This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving family during a weeknight dinner or treating friends at your next gathering. Consider pairing it with a refreshing cucumber salad or even steamed veggies for a complete meal!

Explore more delicious dishes like my Cheddar Chicken Rice or Fried Pina Colada for a delightful twist on classic comfort foods!

XO Fried Rice with Char Siu Ingredients

• Get ready to elevate your leftovers!

For the Base
Peanut Oil – Used for frying to achieve a crispy texture; substitute with any neutral oil if needed.
Leftover Rice – Essential for the base; chilled rice prevents clumping and ensures a perfect fry.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; dice for even cooking.
Ginger – Freshly minced for a zesty kick that complements the dish beautifully.
Garlic – Minced to enhance the flavor and add an aromatic essence.
Green Onions – Sliced; use the whites for cooking and save the greens for garnish.
For the Protein
Char Siu Pork – Main protein; about 1 lb diced, providing rich flavor with every bite. Can substitute with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
Eggs – Beaten and scrambled for added richness and protein; 4 large eggs enhance the dish’s texture.
For Flavor
XO Sauce – Key flavor component bringing luxurious umami to the dish; can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for XO Fried Rice with Char Siu

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering. Add the diced yellow onion and diced char siu pork, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes, or until the onion is caramelized and translucent. The combination of ingredients should create a delicious aroma that sets the stage for the XO Fried Rice.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and the white parts of 2 sliced green onions. Cook these aromatics for 30 seconds, letting their fragrant essence fill the air. This step enhances the flavor profile of your XO Fried Rice, preparing it for the addition of the rice.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice
Next, add 4 cups of chilled leftover rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps gently with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice for about 2 minutes, ensuring it heats through and begins to achieve a slightly crispy texture. The rice should take on a golden hue, becoming a perfect base for the other flavors.

Step 4: Mix in XO Sauce
Pour in ¼ cup of XO sauce over the heated rice, tossing to coat it evenly. Continue to stir-fry for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to marry with the rice and impart its luxurious umami flavor. At this point, the dish will start to look glossy and vibrant, indicating it’s coming together beautifully.

Step 5: Scramble Eggs
Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet, creating space for the eggs. Pour a little more oil into the empty side and add 4 beaten eggs, cooking them until just set, about 1-2 minutes. Once scrambled, mix the eggs into the rice until evenly distributed. This adds richness to your XO Fried Rice with Char Siu.

Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in the sliced green onion greens and cook for a brief 30 seconds to incorporate. Taste the dish, adjusting seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. The final result should be a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, showcasing the crispy rice and tender char siu.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the XO Fried Rice with Char Siu to bowls or plates and serve hot. This stunning dish is perfect as a main course or as a side, highlighting the satisfying crunch and rich flavors ideal for impressing family or friends during dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These flavorful XO Fried Rice with Char Siu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by dicing the char siu pork and chopping the onions, ginger, and green onions. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can chill your cooked rice, which can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before using. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the chilled rice with the XO sauce, and scramble your eggs as the final step, bringing your creation to life effortlessly on busy nights!

XO Fried Rice with Char Siu Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic XO Fried Rice with Char Siu!

Protein Swap: Replace char siu with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option. Each brings a unique flavor profile to the dish!
Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian version, simply swap out the eggs for silken tofu to keep that comforting richness.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some steamed broccoli or bok choy to add a delightful crunch and extra nutrition to your meal.
Heat It Up: If you’re in the mood for something spicy, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili oil for a fiery kick.
Rice Variety: Experiment with jasmine or brown rice instead of standard white rice for a lovely twist on texture and taste.
Herb Infusion: Fresh cilantro or Thai basil can be tossed in just before serving for a herbal freshness that elevates the dish further.
Crispy Finish: For even more texture, throw in some sliced mushrooms or water chestnuts to create that satisfying crunch amidst the tender rice.
Sauce Variations: Try a bit of oyster sauce or sesame oil along with the XO sauce for a complex flavor experience that dances on your palate.

Don’t forget to pair your delicious rice with some colorful sides like a refreshing cucumber salad! If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Cheddar Chicken Rice or indulge in some Fried Pina Colada for a sweet finish. Enjoy your culinary adventures!

Expert Tips for XO Fried Rice with Char Siu

Chill Your Rice: Always use chilled, leftover rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump, while chilled rice fries up crispy and delicious.
High Heat Cooking: Keep your skillet or wok at high heat while stir-frying. This prevents steaming and allows for that beautiful caramelization on the ingredients.
Egg Scrambling: Cook the eggs just until set to avoid a rubbery texture. Add them to the rice quickly to integrate their richness throughout the dish.
Quality XO Sauce: Invest in a high-quality XO sauce to truly elevate your flavor profile. A great sauce makes all the difference in your XO Fried Rice with Char Siu.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for a burst of freshness that complements the rich umami flavors in your dish.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to include any leftover veggies like bell peppers or peas to enhance nutrition and add color without overwhelming the dish.

What to Serve with XO Fried Rice with Char Siu

As the fragrant notes of ginger and garlic linger in the air, let’s create a full meal experience that perfectly complements this indulgent fried rice.

Crisp Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool crunch, balancing the richness of the fried rice perfectly.
Savory Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp deliver an irresistible crunch and delightful flavors that harmonize beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli brings a fresh, vibrant touch, enhancing the meal with its bright color and nutritional value.
Egg Drop Soup: This warm, comforting soup is light yet flavorful, providing a cozy complement to the hearty XO Fried Rice with Char Siu.
Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in toasted sesame oil offer a nutty crunch that pairs well with the umami-rich flavor of the dish.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet ending, the sticky, creamy mango rice is an exquisite dessert that contrasts delightfully with the savory main course.
Garlic Chili Oil: Drizzle some garlic chili oil over your fried rice for an extra kick; it’s a simple way to elevate the dish with bold flavors.
Chilled Asian Noodle Salad: A light noodle salad tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the fried rice while still maintaining those Asian-inspired flavors.

How to Store and Freeze XO Fried Rice with Char Siu

Fridge: Store any leftover XO Fried Rice with Char Siu in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
Make-Ahead: Prepare all ingredients in advance and store separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours, ensuring the freshest flavors when you cook the XO Fried Rice with Char Siu.

XO Fried Rice with Char Siu Recipe FAQs

What kind of rice is best for XO Fried Rice?
I highly recommend using chilled leftover rice for the best texture. Stale rice works wonders because it’s drier and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture. If you have freshly cooked rice, allow it to cool on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes before using.

How should I store leftover XO Fried Rice?
To keep your XO Fried Rice with Char Siu fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down completely before sealing to lock in the flavors and prevent moisture buildup.

Can I freeze XO Fried Rice with Char Siu?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, you can freeze your XO Fried Rice for up to 2 months. Just pack it into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.

What if my fried rice turns out mushy?
If your fried rice ends up mushy, it may be due to using fresh rice instead of leftover chilled rice. To salvage it, try adding an additional splash of oil and briefly sautéing it in a hot skillet. This can help evaporate excess moisture, giving you a more desirable texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Great question! XO sauce can sometimes contain gluten, depending on the brand. Be sure to check the label and look for gluten-free options. Additionally, using gluten-free soy sauce in the dish can ensure everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious meal safely.

Can I use other proteins besides char siu?
Absolutely! The fantastic thing about this XO Fried Rice with Char Siu is its versatility. You can substitute char siu with cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. Each alternative brings its own flavor while maintaining the dish’s comfort-food appeal.