Subgum fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish packed with a variety of diced vegetables and proteins, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. This Chinese-American classic is perfect for using up leftovers and is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: A one-pan meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables for a balanced dish.
- Great for Leftovers: A perfect way to use up leftover rice.
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh veggies creates an irresistible taste.

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What Is Subgum Fried Rice?
Subgum fried rice is a variation of traditional fried rice that includes a mix of finely diced vegetables and proteins, offering a unique texture and flavor. “Subgum” refers to a variety of ingredients mixed together, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Subgum Fried Rice Ingredients
- Cooked rice: 3 cups (preferably day-old)
- Chicken or shrimp: 1 cup, diced
- Mixed vegetables: 1½ cups (carrots, peas, celery, bell peppers)
- Onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Green onions: For garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Subgum Fried Rice
Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the vegetables and protein of your choice. Set them aside.
Cook the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Protein
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Cook the diced chicken, shrimp, or pork until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the diced vegetables and onion to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and protein to the pan. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Season and Garnish
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

What to Serve with Subgum Fried Rice
- Spring rolls: Add a crispy appetizer to complement the dish.
- Sweet and sour chicken: Pair it with a tangy main course.
- Hot and sour soup: Serve as a starter for a complete meal.
- Steamed dumplings: A great side to enhance the meal.
Expert Tips for Perfect Subgum Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice: Fresher rice tends to be sticky, while day-old rice has a better texture for frying.
- Cut ingredients uniformly: Dicing vegetables and proteins evenly ensures consistent cooking.
- Use high heat: Stir-frying at high heat keeps the vegetables crisp and flavorful.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Adjust soy sauce: Add more or less soy sauce to suit your taste preference.
Variations of Subgum Fried Rice
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add tofu or extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Spicy kick: Add chili paste or sriracha for heat.
- Seafood delight: Use a mix of shrimp, scallops, and crab for a seafood variation.
- Brown rice base: Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier alternative.
- Pineapple twist: Add diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor.
How to Store Subgum Fried Rice Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Subgum Fried Rice Leftovers
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to rehydrate.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
FAQs
What does “subgum” mean in subgum fried rice?
“Subgum” refers to a variety of finely diced vegetables and proteins used in a dish. It signifies a mix of different ingredients, creating a diverse and flavorful meal.
Can I use brown rice for subgum fried rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative. Ensure it’s cooked and cooled before stir-frying to maintain the right texture.
What vegetables work best in subgum fried rice?
Vegetables like carrots, celery, peas, bell peppers, and onions work best in subgum fried rice. You can also add water chestnuts or baby corn for added crunch.
How do you keep fried rice from becoming mushy?
To prevent mushy fried rice, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated. Freshly cooked rice is often too soft and sticky, leading to a mushy texture when stir-fried.
Final Words
Subgum fried rice is a quick, satisfying meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Its blend of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!
PrintSubgum Fried Rice Recipe
Subgum fried rice is a variation of traditional fried rice that includes a mix of finely diced vegetables and proteins, offering a unique texture and flavor. “Subgum” refers to a variety of ingredients mixed together, making each bite rich and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 15mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients
-
- Cooked rice: 3 cups (preferably day-old)
-
- Chicken or shrimp: 1 cup, diced
-
- Mixed vegetables: 1½ cups (carrots, peas, celery, bell peppers)
-
- Onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
-
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
-
- Eggs: 2, beaten
-
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
-
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
-
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
-
- Salt and pepper: To taste
-
- Green onions: For garnish
Instructions
Dice the vegetables and protein of your choice. Set them aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Cook the diced chicken, shrimp, or pork until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Add the diced vegetables and onion to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Add the cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and protein to the pan. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.