Dish

Chahan

Fried Rice

Chahan is a popular dish in Japan and is often served as a side dish or as a main course. The dish is made by first cooking the rice and then frying it in a wok with eggs, vegetables, and meat or seafood. The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Chahan can be made with a variety of ingredients, including shrimp, chicken, pork, or beef, as well as vegetables such as carrots, peas, and onions.

Asian cuisine› East Asian cuisine› Japanese cuisine

Stir-fry

Origins and history

Chahan is believed to have originated in China and was brought to Japan by Chinese immigrants. The dish became popular in Japan in the early 20th century and has since become a staple of Japanese cuisine. The name "chahan" is derived from the Chinese word for fried rice, "chaofan".

Dietary considerations

Gluten-free, can be made dairy-free by omitting butter

Variations

There are many variations of Chahan, some of which use different types of meat or seafood. Some recipes also call for the addition of spices such as ginger or garlic. The dish can also be served with a side of pickled vegetables or a salad.

Presentation and garnishing

Serve the dish in a large bowl with a pair of chopsticks. Garnish with sliced scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

To make the dish more flavorful, use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. This will help to dry out the rice and make it easier to fry.