Arroz Chaufa Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind
You’ve got leftover rice sitting in the fridge. It’s cold, dry, and uninspiring. What if we told you that you could turn it into something magical? Arroz Chaufa, a Peruvian-Chinese fusion fried rice, is your answer.
This dish doesn’t just rescue that lonely rice; it transforms it into a vibrant, savory, and unforgettable meal.
Ready to learn how to make Arroz Chaufa? We’ll show you step-by-step how to create this flavor-packed dish with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into a world where leftover rice becomes the star of the show.
What Is Arroz Chaufa?
Arroz Chaufa is Peru’s take on Chinese fried rice. When Chinese immigrants arrived in Peru, they brought their cooking techniques and ingredients, blending them with local Peruvian flavors. The result? A delicious harmony of soy sauce, sesame oil, stir-fried proteins, and vegetables.
It’s more than just a side dish; Arroz Chaufa is a cultural experience on your plate.
What Does Chaufa Mean?
Chaufa means “fried” in Cantonese and refers to the Peruvian version of Chinese fried rice.
Ingredients for Arroz Chaufa
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this iconic recipe:
- White Rice: Cold, day-old rice is perfect because it doesn’t clump during stir-frying.
- Protein: Chicken, beef, pork, or even sliced hot dogs work well.
- Vegetables: Red bell peppers and green onions add color and crunch.
- Eggs: Scrambled and folded in for richness.
- Soy Sauce: The key umami ingredient that ties everything together.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, toasty aroma.
- Garlic and Ginger: The flavor backbone of the dish.
Pro Tip: Can’t find sesame oil? Substitute with peanut oil for a similar nuttiness.
How to Make Arroz Chaufa
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop everything before you start cooking. Stir-frying is fast, so there’s no time to pause.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet. Scramble the eggs and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add more sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, red bell pepper, and the white parts of green onions.
Step 4: Add Protein
Toss in your cooked chicken, beef, or pork. Stir-fry until heated through.
Step 5: Stir in the Rice
Break up any clumps of rice and add it to the pan. Pour soy sauce evenly over the rice and toss to combine.
Step 6: Fold in Eggs and Green Onions
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan along with the green onion tops. Stir everything together and let it cook for a minute.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your Arroz Chaufa and enjoy!
Arroz Chaufa Recipe Recap
PrintArroz Chaufa Recipe with Ginger Lime Drizzle
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 minutes 1x
Description
Arroz Chaufa is a delightful fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines. This fried rice dish combines tender meat, fresh vegetables, and day-old rice, stir-fried with aromatic seasonings. Our version includes a ginger-lime drizzle for a bright, zesty twist that takes this dish to the next level.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, pork, or sliced hot dogs
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped (whites and greens separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ginger-Lime Drizzle:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully set. Remove the eggs, chop into small pieces, and set aside. - Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining sesame oil. Sauté the white parts of the green onions, red bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for about 3 minutes, until fragrant and slightly softened. - Cook the Protein:
Add the cooked chicken, beef, pork, or hot dogs to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through. - Add the Rice and Sauce:
Break up any clumps of rice with a spatula and stir it into the pan. Pour soy sauce over the mixture and toss well to coat evenly. - Combine the Eggs:
Add the chopped eggs and green parts of the green onions to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another minute. - Prepare the Ginger-Lime Drizzle:
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey. Set aside. - Finish and Serve:
Transfer the fried rice to serving plates or a large dish. Drizzle the ginger-lime mixture over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
Notes
The ginger-lime drizzle is a unique touch that adds a zesty, tangy freshness to the dish. It balances the savory flavors of the soy sauce and sesame oil, creating a vibrant twist that sets this recipe apart. This element was inspired by traditional Peruvian flavors, emphasizing the fusion of cultures that define Arroz Chaufa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Peruvian-Chinese Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 435
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
Ingredient Alternatives
Rice Options:
- Brown Rice: A fiber-rich alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
- Quinoa: A protein-packed substitute with a slightly nutty texture.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that keeps it light and fresh.
- Wild Rice: Adds a unique chewy texture and earthy taste.
- Jasmine or Basmati Rice: For a fragrant twist that complements the dish’s flavors.
Protein Alternatives:
- Shrimp: Adds a seafood twist with tender, juicy bites.
- Tofu: Perfect for vegetarians and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Pork Belly: For a rich, indulgent variation.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative that’s still flavorful.
- Eggplant or Mushrooms: Meaty, plant-based options for a hearty bite.
Vegetable Additions:
- Broccoli Florets: Add crunch and a dose of fiber.
- Peas: Sweet and tender, they mix seamlessly into the dish.
- Zucchini: A mild, versatile vegetable that adds volume.
- Carrots: Diced or shredded, they bring sweetness and color.
- Corn Kernels: Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Edamame: A protein-rich option that blends perfectly.
- Bell Peppers (all colors): For more vibrant color and a subtle sweetness.
These alternatives make the dish adaptable to your taste, dietary needs, or what’s already in your pantry. Mix and match to create your perfect version of Arroz Chaufa!
FAQs On Arroz Chaufa
Yes, replace the protein with tofu or more vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli.
Day-old white rice works best. It’s dry and won’t turn mushy.
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
No, but you can add chili sauce for heat.
Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Use less oil, lean protein, and add extra vegetables.
Pair it with a light cucumber salad or sautéed greens.
The Final Bite
Arroz Chaufa is more than just fried rice—it’s a journey through the fusion of Peruvian and Chinese flavors, all in one delicious dish. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with creative ingredient alternatives, this meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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About the Author
Ryan Yates is a culinary expert with over 20 years of experience in commercial kitchens. As a working executive chef, he has a passion for creating delicious, accessible recipes that bring joy to home cooks everywhere. Ryan believes in the magic of simple ingredients and loves sharing his knowledge to help others find happiness in cooking.