HomeEasy CookingInspiration

Umami and Spicy Fried Rice – Flavorful, Flexible, and Fiery

Only kimchi, oyster sauce, sugar and rice mandatory for this fried rice recipe, you can add any protein, any vegetable or without any protein and/or vegetable. One of most simple and quick one dish meal you can always count on when short on time and/or do not know what to cook.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup of protein (ground pork, beef, cubed chicken, tofu, scrambled eggs, etc.)
  • 1 cup of vegetables (thawed if frozen; for watery veggies like lettuce, mince and squeeze out water if possible)
  • 1.5 cups of leftover rice (or freshly cooked rice if it's dry and not sticky)
  • 1.5 tbsp oil (olive oil is a healthy choice)
  • (Optional) 1/2 tsp ginger paste, juice, or grated fresh ginger – recommended for meat-based proteins
  • 1/2 cup of kimchi, chopped
  • 1.5 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tsp sugar

Flexible Proportions

This is a very forgiving recipe. The rice, protein, and vegetable quantities are simply guidelines — use what you have, and adjust the flavor as you go. You can always start with less oyster sauce and add more at the end after tasting.

Tip: Once the rice is fully mixed and heated through, switch off the heat, taste a spoonful, and adjust the seasoning. If it needs more richness or umami, stir in a bit more oyster sauce and taste again. If it's too salty, add more rice or vegetables to balance it out.

Why It Works

The magic of this fried rice is in the balance: the bold savoriness of oyster sauce, the brightness of kimchi, and just a hint of sweetness from sugar. Add to that your favorite textures from proteins and vegetables, and you’ve got a seriously satisfying meal.

Ginger is optional, but especially great when you're using meat. It adds freshness and cuts through the richness. For non-meat proteins like tofu or eggs, you can skip it altogether.

Make It Your Own

This recipe is like a delicious blank canvas. No kimchi? Try chopped pickles or sauerkraut for tang. No oyster sauce? Try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of fish sauce. Whatever your pantry offers, feel free to experiment!

Enjoy your fiery, flavor-packed bowl of comfort, and don’t forget to save the last spoonful — it’s always the best.