Trader Joe's Fried Rice Is The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner Staple

How to improve a single serving of fried rice

If you're preparing a small portion for yourself, there are several ways to elevate Trader Joe's fried rice into something truly exceptional. Start by heating your rice in a large skillet with a splash of sesame oil; this not only helps cook any additional ingredients but also adds an extra layer of crispiness to your fried rice. For an extra flavor kick, consider adding minced garlic and ginger, or even a teaspoon of curry paste to the hot oil before incorporating the rice.

Next, toss in some of your favorite stir-fry ingredients that aren't already included, such as pineapple, water chestnuts, baby corn, zucchini, or broccoli. If you enjoy egg in your fried rice, you can either scramble an egg in the hot pan and mix it throughout the rice, or clean the skillet after cooking the rice and fry an egg to place on top.

A few fresh herbs can work wonders in transforming your freezer meal into a vibrant dish. Consider adding basil, green onion, or cilantro for an aromatic, earthy flavor. For a tangy kick, kimchi is a classic addition to fried rice that brings a bold, zesty flavor. If the tanginess is too intense, a few extra dashes of soy sauce or chili oil can help balance the taste. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or cashews, a drizzle of hot chili oil, or a squirt of Kewpie mayo— which rivals any American version— will make your one-pan meal taste completely homemade.

How to stretch fried rice for leftovers tomorrow

Alongside the various ways to enhance the flavor of your fried rice or bulk it up with vegetables and toppings, there are plenty of methods to increase the number of servings from your Trader Joe's fried rice. Since your skillet is already heated, consider pan-frying slices of firm tofu or diced chicken to add a protein boost to each serving.

While you're at Trader Joe's, grab a few of their other quick and convenient weeknight dinner options for a balanced meal that will provide you with ample leftovers. You can slice some of their chicken sausages and toss them into your skillet, or pan-fry a few chicken, vegetable, or pork gyoza. Trader Joe's also offers a variety of frozen entrees that complement fried rice beautifully, such as BBQ chicken teriyaki, mandarin orange chicken, or sweet and spicy beef and broccoli. To elevate the flavors of your meal, consider matching the sauce of your entree with your fried rice. A touch of teriyaki sauce, a drizzle of sweet and sour sauce, or an extra splash of soy sauce can transform your kitchen-sink creation into a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.