Ohio-Style Bacon Fried Rice Recipe: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

Bacon fried rice is the ultimate combination of smoky, salty goodness and tender rice, making it a go-to dish for quick dinners. Imagine the crispy bacon bits mixed with perfectly sautéed veggies and eggs, all tossed together with fluffy rice and a splash of soy and oyster sauce. It’s rich, hearty, and easy to make. Whether you're from Ohio or simply love a good plate of fried rice, this dish is going to be your next favorite comfort food.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first came across this incredible recipe on Insanely Good Recipes, and I had to share it with you! It’s one of those dishes that remind me of family gatherings in Ohio—simple, delicious, and packed with flavor.

Why Ohio? Growing up in the Buckeye State, bacon was always a staple in our breakfasts, but incorporating it into fried rice brings a Midwestern heartiness that feels just right. It’s the kind of meal that takes you from the fields of Ohio straight to the dinner table in under 30 minutes. Whether it's a cold winter night or a summer gathering, this dish fits right in with Ohio’s love for home-cooked, comforting meals.

Cultural Origins and Fun Facts: Did you know that fried rice originated as a way to use up leftover rice in China, but over time it has evolved into a versatile dish enjoyed worldwide? The addition of bacon, however, gives this version an American spin, making it a favorite in households everywhere. In Ohio, where farming communities have long prized pork, this recipe pays tribute to the state’s agricultural roots. Bacon adds a crispy, savory richness that takes this fried rice to the next level.

Recipe Instructions

Ingredients:

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1/2 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 4 cups cooked and cooled long-grain rice (preferably day-old)
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by placing your chopped bacon into a cold skillet. This helps the fat render more evenly. Turn the heat to medium and cook until the bacon is crispy. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, using the delicious bacon grease, add your diced onion. Cook it for 3-5 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and frozen peas and carrots, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until everything is tender.
3. Add the Rice: Add your cold, day-old rice to the skillet. Cold rice is key here to avoid mushiness. Stir it well with the veggies and let it cook for 2-4 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet, and on the empty side, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the rice.
5. Season and Combine: Increase the heat to high. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and the chopped cooked bacon back into the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped green onions for that final fresh touch.

Tips to Perfect This Ohio-Style Bacon Fried Rice

• Use Day-Old Rice: Always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft, which can lead to mushy fried rice.
• Switch Up the Protein: Feel free to toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even ham if you want to make this a heartier meal.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, try adding sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to kick up the flavor.
• Side Pairings: Serve this bacon fried rice with a side of tangy cucumber salad or a simple miso soup for a complete meal.

This recipe is not only delicious but also flexible, making it easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry or fridge. Perfect for Ohioans who love a good, hearty meal with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Did you enjoy this Ohio-style twist on a classic bacon fried rice recipe? Let me know how it turned out for you in the comments below! If you loved it, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends, and hit that follow button for more mouthwatering recipes just like this one.