This Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines the smokiness of canned salmon with a punch of umami from pickled mustard greens and chili paste. The crispy fried rice, seasoned with soy sauces, ginger, and fresh herbs, brings together a balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. It’s an easy yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or as a side for a larger meal.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups day-old rice, fridge-cold

• 1 tin Fishwife smoked salmon, flaked into small pieces

• 1 aburaage (fried tofu) pouch, cut into short strips

• 1 small shallot, diced

• 2 sprigs scallion, white and green parts separated

• ½ inch grated ginger

• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, including stems

• 1 ½ tablespoons raw chili paste, such as duo jiao or sambal oelek

• 1 ½ tablespoons pickled mustard greens (suancai), sauerkraut, or kimchi, roughly chopped

• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon light soy sauce

• Sugar and salt to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the rice:
   Ensure the rice is cold and separated into grains, as day-old rice works best for fried rice. If using fresh rice, cool it down in the fridge for a few hours.

2. Cook the aromatics:
   In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced shallot, white parts of the scallions, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Add the tofu and fish:
   Add the strips of fried tofu and the flaked smoked salmon to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tofu to crisp up and the salmon to warm through.

4. Add the rice and seasonings:
   Add the cold rice to the skillet and stir well to break up any clumps. Pour in the dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, chili paste, and pickled mustard greens. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauces and flavors.

5. Finish the fried rice:
   Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning with sugar and salt to taste. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to crisp slightly.

6. Serve:
   Transfer the fried rice to a plate. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and serve immediately.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 70g

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 15g

  • Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 22mg

• Sodium: 850mg

• Potassium: 450mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Vitamin A: 12% DV

• Vitamin C: 16% DV

• Calcium: 7% DV

• Iron: 15% DV

The Smokiness of Canned Salmon

The key ingredient in this dish is the canned smoked salmon, which adds a unique, smoky flavor to the fried rice. Canned salmon is a convenient and shelf-stable protein that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. The smokiness of the fish elevates the entire dish, giving it a depth of flavor that might otherwise come from more complex or slow-cooked ingredients. The canned smoked salmon has a soft, flaky texture that blends seamlessly with the rice and tofu, creating a dish that is hearty without feeling too heavy.

Not only does smoked salmon contribute flavor, but it also adds nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, salmon supports heart health and provides a nutrient-dense element to the fried rice. By using canned smoked salmon, this dish becomes a quick and accessible way to incorporate the benefits of salmon into a meal without requiring hours of preparation.

The Role of Aburaage (Fried Tofu)

Another essential ingredient in Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is aburaage, a type of fried tofu that is cut into short strips. Aburaage adds both texture and flavor to the dish, providing a slight crispiness that contrasts with the soft, smoky salmon and tender rice. The tofu strips soak up the savory sauces, allowing the dish to come together with a nice balance of flavors. Fried tofu is a staple in many Asian dishes, and its versatility shines through in this fried rice recipe.

In addition to its texture, tofu is a rich source of protein and iron, making it an excellent plant-based ingredient to complement the smoked salmon. Tofu is also low in fat and calories, which helps to make this dish a lighter yet satisfying option. The tofu adds heartiness to the rice, making the meal more filling without being too heavy. When stir-fried, the tofu becomes slightly crispy on the outside while maintaining a tender inside, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

The Importance of Pickled Mustard Greens

One of the standout ingredients in Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is the addition of pickled mustard greens. These greens provide an extra layer of tangy, fermented flavor that elevates the fried rice. Pickled mustard greens are commonly used in Chinese cooking, especially in southern and southwestern regions, where their tart, sour profile adds depth to many dishes. The pickling process intensifies the flavor, making it a great complement to the smoky salmon and spicy chili paste.

Besides enhancing the flavor, pickled mustard greens also provide a probiotic boost, which promotes gut health and digestion. The sourness from the pickles contrasts nicely with the rich fish and the slight sweetness from the soy sauces, balancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. If pickled mustard greens are unavailable, alternatives such as sauerkraut or kimchi can be used, although they will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish.

The Zesty Kick of Chili Paste and Soy Sauce

To balance out the richness of the fish and tofu, the chili paste and soy sauces in this dish provide a spicy, savory punch. The raw chili paste (like duo jiao or sambal oelek) brings a fiery heat that invigorates the dish without overwhelming it. The chili paste infuses the rice with bold spice, while the soy sauce adds umami, rounding out the flavors and bringing the dish together.

The combination of dark soy sauce and light soy sauce is crucial for creating a balanced sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Dark soy sauce contributes depth and richness, while light soy sauce provides a touch of saltiness that enhances the flavors of the rice and fish. The soy sauces not only season the rice but also help to bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dish that’s packed with umami and spice.

The Freshness of Scallions, Ginger, and Cilantro

The aromatics in Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice, including shallots, ginger, scallions, and cilantro, contribute layers of flavor and freshness that balance the richness of the salmon and the pickled mustard greens. The shallots bring a mild, sweet onion flavor, while the ginger adds a zesty, peppery kick that complements the spice from the chili paste. The scallions provide both color and a mild, fresh onion flavor, with the green parts serving as a garnish to add a pop of freshness right before serving.

Cilantro, with its bright, herbaceous notes, brings a burst of freshness to the dish, cutting through the richness and adding contrast to the deep flavors of the fried rice. Fresh cilantro enhances the overall complexity of the dish, making it feel lighter and more vibrant despite the heavier ingredients. These fresh herbs and aromatics provide a well-rounded flavor profile, enhancing the depth of the other ingredients while ensuring that the dish remains balanced and fresh.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Fried Rice

The key to making perfect fried rice is using day-old rice, which is the best choice for stir-frying. The rice grains, when chilled, separate more easily, preventing the fried rice from becoming mushy. Fresh rice tends to be too sticky, making it difficult to achieve the desired texture. By using day-old rice, you ensure that the grains stay separated and crisp up nicely during stir-frying, resulting in the signature texture of fried rice.

The stir-frying process is equally important. The ingredients, especially the smoked salmon, tofu, and pickled mustard greens, need to be cooked in stages to ensure that each element retains its texture and flavor. Sautéing the aromatics and fish before adding the rice allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring that the fried rice is well-seasoned and evenly coated with the sauces. The rice should be cooked in the hot pan, allowing it to crisp up slightly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

Nutritional Benefits of Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice

Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is a well-balanced dish that offers a combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The smoked salmon and tofu provide a generous amount of protein, while the pickled mustard greens add a source of fiber and probiotics, promoting healthy digestion. The ginger and garlic contribute antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

The dish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and vitamin C, which are important for immune function and skin health. The cilantro adds a fresh dose of vitamin K, which supports bone health, while the scallions provide additional antioxidants. The healthy fats from the fish and tofu also help support heart health and contribute to satiety, making this a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Versatility and Customization

Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is a highly versatile dish that can be customized to fit your preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili paste or omit it entirely. For a different flavor, you could swap out the smoked salmon for another protein, such as shrimp or chicken, or use a plant-based alternative to tofu for a vegetarian version.

The pickled mustard greens can be substituted with other fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, to adjust the flavor profile. Additionally, the dish can be made with other types of rice or noodles, depending on your preferences. The flexibility of this recipe allows for creativity, making it easy to tailor the dish to your liking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish that offers a perfect balance of smokiness, spice, and umami. With its combination of fresh ingredients, smoked fish, pickled mustard greens, and chili paste, the dish delivers bold flavors and a satisfying texture that is sure to impress. The versatility of the recipe and the ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for a quick dinner or as a side dish for a larger meal. Whether you’re a fan of Guizhou cuisine or simply looking for a new and exciting fried rice recipe, Guizhou-Style Salmon Fried Rice is a delicious and nourishing meal that will quickly become a favorite.