Leftover Turkey Fried Rice
Thanksgiving is over and you’re left with a fridge full of leftovers. What do you do with all that leftover turkey? Don’t let it go to waste! With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can turn that leftover turkey into a delicious and satisfying meal. One great option is to make leftover turkey fried rice.
Why Choose Leftover Turkey Fried Rice?
Leftover turkey fried rice is a fantastic way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. By adding some fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a few pantry staples, you can transform your leftover turkey into a whole new meal.
The Secret to Flavorful Fried Rice
The secret to making flavorful fried rice lies in the sauce. A simple mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil adds depth and richness to the dish. The umami flavors of the sauces pair perfectly with the tender turkey and vegetables. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
Adding a Twist with Fresh Ingredients
To take your leftover turkey fried rice to the next level, consider adding some fresh ingredients. Chopped scallions, minced garlic, and grated ginger add a burst of freshness and complexity to the dish. You can also toss in some diced bell peppers, carrots, and peas for added color and texture. The possibilities are endless!
Leftover Turkey Fried Rice Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Heat some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook until fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers, carrots, and peas, and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, and add the leftover turkey to the other side.
- Cook the turkey until heated through.
- Push the turkey to the side with the vegetables, and crack in a couple of eggs.
- Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix everything together.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, and stir-fry until the rice is heated through.
- Pour in the sauce mixture, and toss everything together until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and garnish with chopped scallions.
Leftover turkey fried rice is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, spices, or even add some heat with a sprinkle of chili flakes. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll never get tired of this delicious and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of leftover turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey fried rice can be made with any type of cooked meat. Try using leftover chicken, beef, or even shrimp for a different twist on this classic dish.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Definitely! Brown rice is a healthy alternative to white rice and adds a nutty flavor to the dish. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and add a little extra liquid if needed.
3. Can I make vegetarian fried rice without meat?
Of course! You can omit the meat altogether and make a delicious vegetarian fried rice. Just load it up with your favorite vegetables and season with the same flavorful sauce.
4. Can I freeze leftover turkey fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey fried rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
5. Can I add pineapple to my leftover turkey fried rice?
Absolutely! If you enjoy the combination of sweet and savory flavors, adding pineapple to your leftover turkey fried rice can be a delicious twist. Just be sure to drain the pineapple well before adding it to the dish.
6. How long does leftover turkey fried rice last in the refrigerator?
Leftover turkey fried rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
7. Can I use precooked rice for leftover turkey fried rice?
Yes, using precooked rice is a great time-saving option for making leftover turkey fried rice. Just make sure to fluff the rice before adding it to the skillet to prevent clumping.
8. Can I make leftover turkey fried rice without soy sauce?
While soy sauce adds a distinct flavor to the dish, you can make a delicious version of leftover turkey fried rice without it. Try using tamari sauce or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute.
Leftover Turkey Fried Rice
Ingredients
- nonstick cooking spray
- 1 medium onion , finely chopped
- ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 cups cooked rice , chilled
- 2 cups cooked turkey , diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce , or to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil , or as desired
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Prepare a large pan by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Saute the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the frozen vegetables and butter to the pan, and cook and stir until the butter melts and the vegetables thaw, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in the rice and turkey.
- Add the soy sauce to the pan, 2 tablespoons at a time, and continue stirring until the rice takes on some color.
- Push everything in the pan to the sides, creating a space in the center.
- Pour the sesame oil into the center of the pan and stir the rice mixture until it is coated with the oil.
- Push everything to the sides of the pan again.
- Crack the eggs into the center of the pan and scramble them until they are set, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir the scrambled eggs into the rice mixture until everything is well combined.
- For the best results, it is recommended to prepare the rice the day before.
