Egg White Substitutes in Fried Rice: Soybean Curd Sheets and More

Fried rice is a staple dish in many cuisines around the world, and it often calls for egg whites to achieve the perfect texture and taste. However, if you're looking for some egg white substitutes for your vegetarian fried rice, there are a few options you can explore. In this article, we'll focus on one such substitute: soybean curd sheets. We'll also discuss other possible alternatives.

1. Soybean Curd Sheets as a Substitute for Egg Whites

Soybean curd sheets, also known as tofu sheets or bean curd sheets, can provide a near-eggy look and taste when used in fried rice. To prepare them, you can boil the sheets for a short while and then cut them into smaller pieces. Adding these sheets to your fried rice can yield a better taste, making it a perfect meal for vegetarians or vegans.

When you boil soybean curd sheets, they become softer and more pliable. This change in texture can help them blend better with the rice and other ingredients, making the overall dish more enjoyable and satisfying. Additionally, soybean curd sheets contain protein, which can help enhance the savory flavors in your fried rice.

2. Exploring Other Egg White Substitutes

While soybean curd sheets can be a great substitute for egg whites in fried rice, there are several other alternatives you can try. Here are a few options:

2.1. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes can be a good substitute for egg whites in certain dishes. You can boil or steam a few potatoes, then mash them and blend them with water to a paste consistency. Use this paste in the same way you would use egg whites to provide structure and moisture to your fried rice.

2.2. Storage Monte

Storage Monte, also known as aquafaba, is the liquid that comes from soaking and cooking legumes. It is derived from chickpeas, lentils, and more. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a vegan alternative to egg whites, particularly in meringues and some baking applications. However, using it in fried rice can still be a viable option. You can blend the Storage Monte to a frothy consistency, which can help stiffen the mixture and improve the texture of your fried rice.

2.3. Cornstarch

For those seeking a more subtle substitute, you can use cornstarch to thicken and bind ingredients in your fried rice. Mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to form a slurry and add it to your rice as it cooks. This will help achieve the desired consistency and add a smooth texture to your dish.

3. How to Make Vegetarian Fried Rice with Soybean Curd Sheets

With a basic understanding of the substitutes available, let's take a closer look at how to incorporate soybean curd sheets into your vegetarian fried rice recipe:

3.1. Ingredients

? cup finely chopped onion 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed 1 cup soybean curd sheets, boiled and chopped 2 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or cooking oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Optional: green onions, sliced

3.2. Steps to Prepare the Fried Rice

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onions and garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped soybean curd sheets and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Add the cooked rice and toss well to combine. Make sure to break up any clumps of rice. Once the rice is heated through, add the soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to coat the rice evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and the soy sauce is well incorporated. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, if using. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired for an extra touch of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious vegetarian fried rice!

4. Conclusion

When you're craving fried rice and you don't have egg whites, don't worry! There are excellent substitutes available, such as soybean curd sheets, mashed potatoes, Storage Monte, and cornstarch. By incorporating any of these substitutes into your recipe, you can create a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian alternative to the classic dish. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to find the recipe that works best for you.