Shah’s Signature Chicken Sausage Fried Rice: Your First Step to Culinary Confidence
Every culinary journey has a beginning, a single dish that sparks a lifelong passion or, at the very least, provides a reliable anchor in the kitchen. For me, that dish was Shah’s famous chicken sausage fried rice. It wasn’t just a meal; it was the foundation of my cooking adventure, the sole entry on my menu when I dared to step beyond the familiar confines of my home kitchen.
When I first launched this cooking site in May 2012, I candidly admitted in the About Me section that my kitchen skills were, to put it mildly, non-existent. My culinary repertoire extended no further than this particular style of fried rice – Shah’s fried rice, to be precise. Little did I know, this simple dish would become the cornerstone of my newfound confidence and a delicious reminder of home.
Unveiling the Enigma: Who is Shah?
Now, you might be wondering, who exactly is Shah? Is she a celebrated chef from Singapore, a culinary icon known across Asia? The truth is far more personal and heartwarming. Shah was our wonderful domestic helper in Singapore, and her chicken sausage fried rice was, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorite dishes. It was a humble yet profoundly comforting meal that spoke volumes of her skill and care. When I made the big move from my bustling home in Singapore to start a new life in Argentina, Shah’s fried rice became my sole culinary companion.
It wasn’t just that it was the only thing I knew how to cook, or even dared to attempt. This specific style of fried rice carried with it a powerful sense of nostalgia. Each fragrant spoonful transported me back to the comforts of home, the warmth of my childhood, and the loving embrace of family. It was more than just food; it was a connection to a life left behind, a culinary bridge to cherished memories, making every cooking session a deeply personal experience.
A Symphony of Flavors: Imagining the Perfect Fried Rice
Close your eyes for a moment and allow your imagination to paint a vivid picture with me. Envision fluffy grains of long white rice, perfectly cooked and then artfully tossed in a sizzling wok. Picture it mingling with an array of fresh ingredients: golden scrambled eggs, savory chicken sausages sliced just right, finely chopped onions, and fragrant toasted garlic. As you watch, a generous drizzle of soy sauce is added, coating each grain with its rich, umami flavor. Now, take a deep breath. Inhale the intoxicating aroma that wafts from the wok, a fragrance as bright and inviting as a sun-drenched Spring afternoon, promising a meal that is both comforting and exhilarating.
This is a dish that never fails to envelop me in feelings of comfort and familiarity. Its scent alone conjures images of a bustling Asian kitchen, alive with the sounds and smells of delicious food being prepared. For nearly two years, this was practically the only dish I cooked, a testament to its reliability and my initial lack of confidence. I’d even go as far as to say I earned a “Masters in Fried Rice,” having practiced it diligently, time and time again, perfecting every stir and every seasoning. Such dedication, I believe, deserves the grand honor this recipe receives. Originally one of my very first food posts, I am now delighted to update it with step-by-step pictures, fresh from last night’s dinner, ensuring you can recreate this culinary gem with ease.
And yes, in case you were still wondering, let me assure you: it truly is that delightfully easy. Anyone who has a craving for delicious fried rice can absolutely cook it. My journey from kitchen novice to fried rice aficionado proves it. If I can cook, so can you! This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about empowerment, a simple yet profound step towards culinary confidence.
Master Shah’s Chicken Sausage Fried Rice: A Simple Recipe for Everyone
Why This Fried Rice is Your Go-To Dish
Shah’s Chicken Sausage Fried Rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques coming together to create something truly magical. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, an excellent way to use up leftover rice, and an ideal starting point for anyone looking to gain confidence in the kitchen. Its versatility, comforting flavors, and ease of preparation make it a staple in any home.
CHICKEN SAUSAGE FRIED RICE (SERVES 4 – 6)
Ingredients:
- 6 espresso cups of uncooked long grain white rice (preferably Thai white rice). Long-grain rice, especially Thai jasmine rice, offers a wonderful fluffy texture that separates beautifully, which is key for perfect fried rice.
- 1 large onion. Essential for building a savory base and adding a subtle sweetness when stir-fried.
- 3-4 cloves of garlic. The aromatic heart of many Asian dishes, garlic adds an irreplaceable depth of flavor.
- 1 sprig of spring onion (for decoration). Adds a fresh, sharp counterpoint and a pop of vibrant green.
- 6 chicken sausages. Easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and they lend a delicious, slightly smoky, and savory taste.
- 5 eggs. Provides protein, texture, and helps bind the dish together.
- Soy sauce & salt to taste. The primary seasonings that bring out the umami and balance the flavors.
Steps:
- Prepare the Rice: Cook the long-grain rice according to your preferred method – whether it’s in an electric rice cooker, microwave, or a simple pot on the stove. For best results with fried rice, it’s crucial to let the cooked rice stand and cool completely. Ideally, use day-old rice, as drier grains prevent sogginess and allow for better separation.
- Whip Up the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk the five eggs until well combined. Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat, then pour in the beaten eggs to make a thin omelette. Cook until set, then slide it out onto a cutting board and slice it into small, bite-sized pieces. Set these aside for later.
- Chop and Slice: Prepare your aromatics and protein. Finely chop the large onion into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Slice the chicken sausages into small, coin-shaped or half-moon pieces – think bite-sized for easy eating and even distribution.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a wok or a large frying pan over medium-high heat with a tablespoon or two of cooking oil. Add the chopped garlic and onions and stir-fry until the onions become translucent and softened, releasing their sweet aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Introduce the Sausages: Add the sliced chicken sausages to the wok with the softened garlic and onions. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the sausages are lightly browned and cooked through, infusing the oil with their savory flavor.
- Incorporate the Rice: Add the cooled, cooked rice to the wok. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, break up any clumps and gently stir-fry, ensuring the rice is thoroughly mixed with the aromatics and sausages. Continue to toss until the rice grains are heated through and lightly toasted.
- Season to Taste: Drizzle soy sauce gradually over the rice, stirring constantly to distribute it evenly. Start with a smaller amount and taste test as you go, adding more soy sauce and a pinch of salt if needed, until the rice is perfectly seasoned to your liking. This step is key for flavor balance.
- Add Eggs and Final Stir: Gently fold in the pre-prepared fried egg pieces. Stir-fry for another minute or two, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the delicious chicken sausage fried rice to serving plates. Finely chop the sprig of spring onion and sprinkle it over each serving as a fresh, aromatic garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
I promised it was easy, and I delivered! This simple, comforting dish is a testament to how accessible and rewarding cooking can be. May you have a marvelous fried rice day, filled with delicious flavors and newfound confidence!
Visual Guide to Shah’s Chicken Sausage Fried Rice
Fresh eggs, onion and garlic cloves:
Chopped onions:
Chopped garlic:
Sliced chicken sausages:
Beaten eggs:
Make an omelette:
Cut omelette into small pieces:
Stir-fry chopped onions and garlic in wok until onions are transparent:
Add in cooked rice:
Add in soy sauce and stir well:
Add egg pieces to rice:
Add in sliced chicken sausages:
Mix well:
Delicious Chicken Sausage Fried Rice!