Com Chien | Vietnamese Fried Rice

One variation that holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach) is Chinese sausage fried rice or cơm chiên lạp xưởng. This is the type of fried rice my family makes most often, and it's always a hit at our dinner table. 

Jump to:

• Watch the video: Com Chien Vietnamese Fried Rice
• Ingredients you'll need:
• Step-by-step instructions:
• The importance of each ingredient.
• Tips and substitutions to elevate your dish
• Techniques for cooking the perfect fried rice
• What goes well with Com Chien or Vietnamese fried rice
• Serving Com Chien | Vietnamese fried rice
• Make ahead and storage tips.
• FAQs related to this recipe
• Full Recipe

Cooking with Chinese Sausage: How to Choose and Store the Best Quality

I'm all about flavor, and there's one ingredient I can't get enough of: Chinese sausage, also known as lạp xưởng in Vietnamese and lap cheong in Cantonese. This sausage has a unique combination of fatty, salty, sweet, and savory flavors that can elevate any dish to the next level. In fact, I always ensure to have some in our fridge for a quick and delicious boost of umami.

This versatile ingredient comes in wide varieties, but the one we're using for this recipe is sweet, savory, and slightly smoky. It's typically made with pork and pork fat, which gives it a rich and meaty flavor, but some versions also include chicken and liver for extra depth.

In Vietnamese cuisine, Chinese sausage is a beloved staple in many dishes, including the iconic "com chien" or fried rice. If you're lucky enough to have an Asian grocery store near you, you'll likely find Chinese sausage in the refrigerated section, where it will be easy to spot thanks to its bright red color and distinctive shape. 

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Where to find

But if you can't find it locally, don't worry! You can also order it online from Amazon or other specialty retailers. And the best part? It lasts forever! You can keep it in your fridge for weeks or months without worrying about spoilage.

Trust me, your next fried rice recipe won't be complete without this ingredient. Its unique flavor profile adds depth and richness to any dish, and once you try it, you'll never want to go back to plain old rice again! So go ahead and give it a try—we promise you won't regret it.

Watch the video: Com Chien Vietnamese Fried Rice

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The best rice to use for fried rice.

To make fried rice, the type of rice you use can make a big difference in the final result. I believe that the best rice for fried rice is long-grain white rice. This type of rice has a firm texture that holds up well during stir-frying and a neutral flavor that allows the other ingredients in the dish to shine.

• Cold, leftover rice is ideal for making fried rice, as freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky for stir-frying. If you don't have leftover rice on hand, you can cook a fresh batch of rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool in the fridge for at least an hour before using it for fried rice.
• Another essential tip for making great fried rice is to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help the grains stay separate and fluffy during cooking, which is crucial for the perfect texture.

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Ingredients you'll need:

• 1 cup Chinese sausage, diced small
• 3 tablespoon neutral oil, like vegetable or canola
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 eggs
• 4 cups of cooked white rice, at least 1 day old
• 3 stalks of green onion/scallion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon shrimp paste (optional but highly recommended)
• 1 to 2 tablespoon soy sauce or Maggi seasoning
• ½ cup frozen peas (or buy a frozen vegetable medley)
• ½ cup carrot, diced
• ½ cup corn kernel
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional but highly recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1 Soak and Cook the Chinese Sausage

Soak Lap Cheong in hot water for 15 minutes before cooking; this can help to remove excess oil and salt from the sausage.

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced Chinese sausage to the skillet and cook until the fat begins to render out. If the sausage is lean, add a little oil to the pan to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

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Step 2 Cook the Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add more oil if necessary. Once hot, add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, occasionally stirring, until it becomes soft and translucent. This should take around 3-4 minutes. 

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 35 seconds before adding the carrots. Continue cooking the vegetables until the carrots are tender. This should take about 4-5 minutes.

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Step 3 Cook the Eggs

With the vegetables cooked and set aside, it's time to move on to the eggs. Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble them to your desired texture to get started. Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and set them aside. 

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Step 4 Add the vegetables and Season

• Once the eggs are cooked and set aside, it's time to bring all the ingredients together and start seasoning the dish. Add the 1 tablespoon shrimp paste. Give it a quick stir.

• Add the cooked rice, Chinese sausage, scrambled eggs, and vegetable mixture to your pan and stir them together. Add more oil to the pan (optional) to ensure everything cooks evenly.

• Next, add the soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. These seasonings will help enhance the flavors of the other ingredients and create a delicious and balanced dish.
• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more soy sauce, salt, or pepper until the flavors are well balanced.

• As you cook the rice, keep an eye on it and stir it regularly to ensure it doesn't stick to the pan. If the rice starts to stick, don't worry – add more oil to the pan to help loosen it up.

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Step 5 Add the Finishing Touches

Lower the heat to low and scallions to the pan. Mix everything to ensure everything is heated through, and the scrambled eggs are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

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• Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Best Copycat Benihana Chicken Fried rice

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The importance of each ingredient.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture of the dish. In this section, we'll explore the reasons behind using each ingredient and how they contribute to fried rice's overall taste and texture.

1. Chinese sausage: The Chinese sausage is the star of this dish, adding a savory, smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
2. Neutral oil: Neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil is used in this recipe to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan during cooking. It also adds a mild flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients. Using a neutral oil in this recipe will ensure the rice is evenly cooked and doesn't stick to the pan, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
3. Onion: Onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish and provides texture and color. Using onion in this recipe adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile and a pleasant crunch that complements the soft rice and sausage.
4. Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in this dish. With garlic added to the recipe, this dish has an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
5. Carrot: Carrot adds sweetness and crunch to the dish, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe uses carrots, which add a bright pop of color and a satisfying crunch that complements the other soft and savory ingredients.
6. Eggs: Eggs add protein, richness, and a creamy texture to the dish. A satisfying richness is added to this recipe by using eggs that complement the other flavors and textures.
7. Cooked white rice: Cooked white rice is the base of this dish, providing the perfect texture and neutral flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine. Using cooked white rice in this recipe creates a blank canvas for the different flavors to shine. Use rice at least one day old to ensure it's firm and not too sticky.
8. Green onion/scallion: Green onion or scallion adds a fresh, bright flavor and color to the dish. The freshness of the green onion is vital to ensuring its flavor and crunch. The green onion or scallion adds a pop of color and flavor that complements the other ingredients and adds texture.
9. Shrimp paste (optional): It adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish, and it's commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. By using shrimp paste in this recipe, you'll add an extra layer of savory flavor that complements the other ingredients and creates a more complex flavor profile.
10. Soy sauce or Maggi seasoning: Soy sauce or Maggi seasoning adds salty, umami flavor to the dish, and they're essential in creating the savory taste of the fried rice.
11. Frozen peas: Frozen peas add a sweet, delicate flavor and bright green color to the dish. Frozen peas in this recipe will add a fresh, sweet taste and texture that complements the savory and umami flavors. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
12. Fish sauce: Adding fish sauce to com chien adds a savory, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dish, such as the Chinese sausage, vegetables, and rice. It helps balance the sweetness of the onions and carrots and adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. The fish sauce also helps season the rice, making it more flavorful and enjoyable.
13. Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper are used to season the dish and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients

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Tips and substitutions to elevate your dish

Fried rice is a classic and beloved dish enjoyed for generations. While the traditional recipe is delicious on its own, many tips and substitutions can help elevate this dish to the next level. 

Tip 1 Use the right rice.

The type of rice you use can significantly impact the final result of your fried rice. To achieve the perfect texture, it's best to use long-grain rice cooked and chilled for at least a day. This will help the grains stay separate and prevent them from getting mushy during cooking.

Substitution: Brown rice

Use brown rice instead of white for a healthier twist on traditional fried rice. Brown rice has more fiber and nutrients than white rice, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add extra nutrition to their meal.

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Tip 2 Add flavor with aromatics.

Aromatics like garlic and onion add depth and complexity to your fried rice dish. Be sure to sauté these ingredients before adding the other elements to the pan to help release their full flavor potential.

Substitution: Shallots

Consider using shallots instead of onions if you want a milder and slightly sweeter flavor. Shallots have a more delicate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in fried rice.

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Tip 3 Use quality protein.

Protein is a crucial component of any fried rice dish, and using high-quality protein can help take your dish to the next level. Choose a fresh and flavorful protein for chicken, beef, or tofu.

Substitution: Shrimp

Use shrimp instead of chicken or beef for a seafood twist on fried rice. Shrimp has a slightly sweet and delicate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in fried rice.

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Tip 4 Experiment with different vegetables

While peas and carrots are classic vegetables used in fried rice, many other vegetables can add unique flavors and textures to this dish. Consider using bell peppers, mushrooms, or even bok choy to add extra color and nutrition to your fried rice.

Substitution: Cauliflower rice

For a low-carb twist on traditional fried rice, consider using cauliflower instead of regular rice. Cauliflower rice is lower in calories and carbs than conventional rice, making it a great option for those watching their weight or following a low-carb diet.

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Tip 5 Add some heat

If you're a fan of spicy food, consider adding some heat to your fried rice dish. Whether you prefer the kick of chili peppers or the warmth of ginger, this dish has many ways to add extra heat and flavor.

Substitution: Sriracha

Consider using sriracha sauce for a quick and easy way to add some extra heat to your fried rice. This hot sauce is made from chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar and can be drizzled over your finished dish for an extra spicy kick.

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Tip 6 How to make fresh rice work for You

If you're craving fried rice but don't have any stale, day-old rice on hand, don't worry – you can still make a delicious dish using fresh rice. Here's a quick and easy method for drying out your freshly cooked rice and turning it into perfect fried rice:

Step 1 Spread the Rice on a Baking Sheet

After cooking your rice, spread it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the rice evenly to help it cool and dry quickly.

Step 2 Freeze the Rice

Once your rice is on the baking sheet, stick it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will help dry out the rice and make it easier to work with when you're ready to make your fried rice.

Step 3 Cook the Fried Rice

When you're ready to make your fried rice, follow your favorite recipe and use dried-out rice instead of stale rice. You'll find that the finished product is a great approximation of fried rice made with stale rice – it's just as delicious and satisfying!

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Techniques for cooking the perfect fried rice

You can create the perfect fried rice every time by following these techniques. So go ahead and try it – you'll be amazed at how delicious and satisfying homemade fried rice can be!

1. Use day-old rice: Fried rice is best made with rice cooked and chilled for at least a day. This helps dry the rice and prevent it from getting mushy during cooking.
2. Use a hot pan: When cooking fried rice, a hot pan is essential. This helps the rice get crispy and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
3. Cook the aromatics first: Before adding other ingredients, cook your aromatics, like garlic and onion, in oil until fragrant. This will help release their full flavor potential and infuse the dish with delicious flavor.
4. Cook the protein next: Once your aromatics are cooked, add your protein to the pan and cook until browned and crispy. This could be chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
5. Prepare vegetables: Add carrots, peas, and bell peppers to the pan and cook until tender. Be sure to cut them into small pieces, so they cook evenly.
6. Add the rice: Once your vegetables are cooked, add the day-old rice to the pan and stir to combine. Make sure the rice is evenly coated with oil and any other seasonings.
7. Season to taste: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other seasonings to the pan and stir to combine. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed.
8. Cook until crispy: Stir-fry the fried rice until it is golden brown and crispy. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the rice cooks evenly.
9. Add finishing touches: Once the fried rice is cooked, add finishing touches like chopped scallions or cilantro to the pan. This will add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

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Vegetarian and vegan options:

You can create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of this classic dish with the following tips and substitutions. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen – the possibilities are endless!

1. Swap out the Chinese sausage: Instead of using Chinese sausage in your fried rice, consider vegetarian or vegan sausage, such as Beyond Sausage or Field Roast. These sausages are made from plant-based ingredients and offer a similar texture and flavor to traditional sausage.
2. Use tofu or tempeh: Instead of using meat in your fried rice, consider using tofu or tempeh. These plant-based proteins offer a great texture and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish.
3. Add more vegetables: To make your fried rice even more flavorful and nutritious, add more vegetables to the dish. Add broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, or mushrooms to the pan for a delicious and colorful dish.
4. Use tamari or soy sauce: To keep the dish vegan, use tamari or another vegan soy sauce instead of traditional soy sauce, which often contains animal products.
5. Use vegetable oil: When cooking your fried rice, use vegetable oil instead of animal-based fats like butter or lard. This will help keep the dish vegan and also offer a healthier option.

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Tips for beginners

These tips will help beginners make delicious Com Chien or Vietnamese fried rice that will impress even the most seasoned home cook.

1. Use the right pan: Choose a large, heavy-bottomed pan to make the perfect fried rice. This will help prevent the rice from sticking to the pan and allow for even cooking.
2. Cook the rice in advance: Fried rice tastes best when leftover rice has been chilled overnight. This will help dry out the rice and prevent it from getting mushy during cooking.
3. Prepare all ingredients in advance: Before you start cooking, be sure to prepare all of your ingredients in advance. This will help ensure you have everything within reach and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
4. Use high heat: To get that perfect crispy texture, cooking your fried rice over high heat is essential. This will help the rice get crispy and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
5. Add ingredients in the right order: To ensure that each ingredient cooks properly, the order in which you add them matters. Cook the aromatics first, followed by the protein, vegetables, and rice.
6. Taste as you go: Don't be afraid to taste your fried rice as you go along. This will help you adjust the seasonings and ensure the dish has the perfect flavors.
7. Don't overcrowd the pan: It's important not to overcrowd the pan when cooking fried rice. This will help ensure that each ingredient cooks properly and the rice gets crispy.

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The use of fish sauce in com chien or fried rice.

Fish sauce is a key ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes, including com chien or fried rice. Fish sauce is made from fermenting fish with salt and water and has a strong, salty flavor that adds depth and umami to dishes.

In com chien, fish sauce is often used to season the rice and add a savory depth of flavor. It's typically added towards the end of the cooking process after the rice has been fried and the other ingredients have been added to the pan. A small amount of fish sauce goes a long way, so add it gradually and taste as you go.

When buying fish sauce, look for a high-quality brand made from anchovies or other small fish. A good quality fish sauce should have a clear, amber color and a strong, briny aroma. Avoid fish sauces that contain added sugar or MSG, as these can alter the dish's flavor.

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What goes well with Com Chien or Vietnamese fried rice

By pairing com chien with these complementary foods, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will surely please your taste buds. Here are a few suggestions for foods that go well with com chien:

1. Grilled meats: Com chien pairs well with grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or beef. The grilled meats' smoky flavors complement the fried rice's savory and slightly sweet flavors.
2. Stir-fried vegetables: To add nutrition and flavor to your meal, consider serving com chien with a side of stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli. The vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the fried rice.
3. Spring rolls: Spring rolls are a popular appetizer in Vietnamese cuisine and make a great side dish to serve with com chien. The crispy and fresh flavors of the spring rolls complement the rich and savory flavors of the fried rice.
4. Vietnamese pickles: Pickled vegetables, such as carrots and daikon, make a great accompaniment to com chien. The pickles' tangy and slightly sweet flavors help cut through the fried rice's richness.
5. Soup: Com chien can also be served alongside a light soup, such as Pho, Tom Kha, or Tom Yum, to create a complete and satisfying meal. The soup provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the fried rice and helps balance the meal.

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Serving Com Chien | Vietnamese fried rice

You can create a beautiful and delicious presentation of com chien that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and hearty dish. Here are a few tips for serving com chien:

1. Garnish with herbs: To add flavor and color to your dish, consider garnishing your com chien with fresh herbs such as cilantro, Thai basil, or mint. The herbs provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the fried rice.
2. Serve with lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can help brighten the flavors of the fried rice and cut through the dish's richness. Consider serving your com chien with a few lime wedges on the side for your guests to squeeze over their rice.
3. Use a cast iron skillet: Com chien is traditionally cooked in a cast iron skillet, which helps to create a crispy and flavorful crust on the rice. Consider serving your com chien in the same skillet cooked in for a rustic and authentic presentation.
4. Pair with complementary foods: As mentioned earlier, com chien pairs well with other foods such as grilled meats, stir-fried vegetables, spring rolls, Vietnamese pickles, and soup. Consider serving your com chien alongside these complementary foods to create a complete and satisfying meal.

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Make ahead and storage tips.

Fried rice is great for a quick, easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. You can enjoy this classic dish whenever possible with advanced preparation and proper storage techniques. You don't have to cook com chien from scratch every time.

1. Cook the rice ahead of time: To save time when making com chien, consider cooking the rice ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cold rice will help to create a firmer texture and prevent the grains from sticking together.
2. Store in an airtight container: After cooking, allow the rice to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help to prevent the rice from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors from your fridge.
3. Reheat properly: When reheating com chien, use a non-stick pan or a wok to prevent the rice from sticking. You can add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.
4. Add fresh herbs and toppings just before serving: To add some extra flavor and freshness to your com chien, consider adding some fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil, as well as some sliced chilies or lime wedges, just before serving.
5. Be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Freeze for long-term storage. If you want to store com chien for longer than 3 days, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

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FAQs related to this recipe

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for com chien? 

A: While white rice is the traditional choice for com chien, you can certainly use brown rice. Remember that brown rice will take longer to cook and may have a slightly different texture than white rice.

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Q: Can I use other meat besides Chinese sausage in com chien? 

A: Absolutely! Com chien is a versatile dish with various proteins, including chicken, beef, pork, and shrimp. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version of the dish.

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Q: Is fish sauce essential for com chien? 

A: Fish sauce is a traditional ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine and is commonly used in com chien for its umami flavor. However, if you prefer not to use fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.

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Q: How long does com chien last in the refrigerator? 

A: Com chien can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

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Q: Can I freeze com chien? 

A: Yes, you can freeze com chien in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Q: Can I reheat com chien in the microwave? 

A: While you can undoubtedly reheat com chien in the microwave, using a non-stick pan or a wok is best to prevent the rice from becoming too dry or sticking to the pan. You can add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.

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Q: Can I add other vegetables to com chien? 

A: You can add various vegetables to com chien to suit your taste preferences. Some popular options include diced bell peppers, peas, corn, and zucchini.

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Q: How can I make com chien gluten-free? 

A: To make com chien gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. You can also substitute fish sauce with a gluten-free fish sauce alternative.

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Q: Can I make com chien without eggs? 

A: Yes, you can make com chien without eggs for a vegan version of the dish. Instead, omit the eggs and use tofu or tempeh as a protein source.

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