Craving a vibrant and flavorful fried rice experience? Look no further than this recipe for Mackerel Fried Rice with Cha-om, a dish bursting with the unique tastes of Thailand. This recipe elevates the classic fried rice, incorporating the rich, oily flavor of mackerel and the subtly bitter, yet refreshing notes of cha-om (Acacia Pennata) leaves. The combination creates a complex and satisfying meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. Imagine perfectly cooked rice, tossed with succulent mackerel flakes, fragrant garlic, and the distinctive cha-om leaves – a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
This recipe provides a delicious twist on a familiar dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve a perfectly textured fried rice packed with flavor. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Mackerel (fried, then cut into pieces)
- Rice (Jasmine or Khao Sao Hai)
- Garlic (Thai or Chinese)
- Egg: 1
- Shallots
- Sliced Chili
- Cha-om (acacia shoots)
- Sugar: a little
- Salt: a little
- Ground pepper (white pepper): a little
- Seasoning sauce
- Cooking oil
- Lemon (optional)
- Fish sauce (optional)
- Chili (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the base
- Heat oil in a pan. Add garlic and fry until yellow and fragrant.
- Add the egg and scramble until cooked.
- Add rice, sugar, salt, ground pepper, and seasoning sauce. Stir-fry until well combined.
Step 2. Add the mackerel and Cha-om
- Add the mackerel, shallots, sliced chili, and cha-om. Stir-fry until the cha-om is cooked and everything is well mixed.
Step 3. Combine Flavors
- Cover the pan and let the flavors meld.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve and garnish with lemon, fish sauce, and chili if desired.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Rice can be used fresh or leftover from the previous day.
- Pound the garlic to a fine consistency before stir-frying for better flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the mackerel with another type of fish?
Yes! Salmon, tuna, or even sardines would work well, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Choose a firm, flaky fish that holds its shape well when cooked.
2. What if I can't find cha-om leaves? Is there a substitute?
While cha-om gives a unique flavor, you can try substituting with other leafy greens like spinach or even chopped cilantro. Keep in mind the flavor will change, but it will still be delicious fried rice!
This Mackerel Fried Rice with Cha-om recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience. We hope you enjoyed creating this vibrant dish as much as we enjoyed sharing the recipe. Now, go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Thai cooking skills!