Trade Rice is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines elements from various culinary traditions, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Below is a comprehensive guide to making Trade Rice, including the ingredients, preparation steps, tips, variations, calorie count, and a concluding summary.
Ingredients
- 2 cups jasmine rice (or any long-grain rice)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup diced chicken breast
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Ingredients:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sesame oil.
- Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced carrots, bell peppers, and peas, and cook until they are tender-crisp.
Combine and Season:
- Return the cooked chicken, shrimp, and scrambled eggs to the skillet.
- Add the cooked rice and mix well.
- Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Transfer the Trade Rice to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips
- Rice: For best results, use day-old rice as it tends to be drier and less sticky.
- Protein Variations: Substitute chicken and shrimp with beef, pork, tofu, or a combination of these.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on availability and preference, such as broccoli, snap peas, or corn.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating chili flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce.
Variations
- Vegetarian Trade Rice: Omit the chicken and shrimp. Use tofu or extra vegetables instead.
- Seafood Delight: Include a mix of seafood like scallops, mussels, and squid.
- Spicy Trade Rice: Add diced jalapeños or Thai chilies for an extra spicy version.
Calorie Count
The approximate calorie count for one serving of Trade Rice (assuming four servings total) is:
- Rice: 200 calories
- Chicken: 150 calories
- Shrimp: 80 calories
- Vegetables: 50 calories
- Eggs: 140 calories
- Sauces and Oils: 100 calories
- Total per serving: ~720 calories
Conclusion
Trade Rice is a delightful fusion dish that brings together diverse ingredients to create a harmonious and flavorful meal. It's a versatile recipe that allows for creativity and adaptation based on personal preferences and dietary needs. With its balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and rice, Trade Rice is not only delicious but also nutritious. Enjoy this dish as a hearty main course or a satisfying side, perfect for any occasion.
