Ham Fried Rice Using Leftovers

Each person in the US throws out about $400 worth of food a year. For a family of four that’s $1,600 right into the trash. Repurposing leftovers is an easy way to reduce wasted food. Ham fried rice is a delicious use of leftover rice.

Start by dicing up about 1 cup of veggies – I like carrots, onions, and something green. This time I had some leftover peppers to use, but I love peas in this dish. Feel free to add other veggies. This is a great way to use veggies before they go bad. Mushrooms would be yummy or canned baby corn would had some fun crunch.

Next chop up some ham. This is a great use of leftover ham. I used luncheon meat that was in the fridge.

Now heat oil to a heavy skillet. About 1 Tbs will do the trick. Sesame oil adds the best flavor, but canola or olive work too.

Add the veggies and ham to the skillet and cook until the veggies are tender. Note if I’m using frozen peas I don’t add them until the end.

Stir in the leftover rice. I had about 3 cups. Add some soy sauce in as well. Stir gently to incorporate the rice, veggies, and sauce. Heat until rice is warm.

Beat an egg and add to the rice mixture. Stir gently until the egg is cooked.

Recipe Leftover Ham Fried Rice

1 cup diced veggies (try 1/3 cup chopped onion, 1/3 cup chopped carrot, 1/3 cup frozen peas)
1/3-1/2 cup diced leftover ham
1 Tbs sesame, canola, or olive oil
3 or so cups of cooked rice
1 Tbs Soy sauce, more or less to taste
1 egg, beaten
 
Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add chopped vegetables and ham. Cook until vegetables are tender. (Note: if using frozen peas don’t add them until later). Add rice and soy sauce, stir gently until the soy sauce is distributed and rice is heated through. (If using frozen peas add them with the rice). Quickly stir in the beaten egg and cook until egg sets. For food safety be sure to heat all leftovers to 165° F.

Reference: https://www.choosemyplate.gov/lets-talk-trash