Arroz Chaufa served on a matte black ceramic plate

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?

perfectly served plate of arroz

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.

Arroz Chaufa ingredients

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet. Scramble the eggs and set them aside.

eggs are being cooked in a wok

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.

sautéing the white parts of the green onions, diced red bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger are sizzling in sesame oil in a wok

Step 4: Add Protein

Toss in your cooked chicken, beef, or pork. Stir-fry until heated through.

chicken is being stir-fried in a wok for Arroz Chaufa

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.

adding the rice and the sauce to the dish

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.

showing the final step of folding scrambled eggs and green onion tops into the Arroz Chaufa

Step 7: Serve

Plate your Arroz Chaufa and enjoy!

plated presentation of Arroz Chaufa served in a large, shallow ceramic bowl with earthy tones

Arroz Chaufa Recipe Recap

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Arroz Chaufa Recipe with Ginger Lime Drizzle


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  • Author: Ryan Yates
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Cook the Protein:
    Add the cooked chicken, beef, pork, or hot dogs to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Prepare the Ginger-Lime Drizzle:
    In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey. Set aside.
  7. 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

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the protein with tofu or more vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli.

What’s the best rice to use?

Day-old white rice works best. It’s dry and won’t turn mushy.

Can I freeze Arroz Chaufa?

Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add chili sauce for heat.

Can I use soy sauce alternatives?

Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

How do I make it healthier?

Use less oil, lean protein, and add extra vegetables.

What should I serve with Arroz Chaufa?

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.

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