If there’s one dish that always delivers comfort, color, and a symphony of textures, it’s the Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl. This vibrant bowl is not only a feast for the senses but an invitation to customize and pile up all your favorites in a single, delicious package. Steamed jasmine rice forms a fluffy base, topped with juicy, savory bites of your chosen protein, crisp-tender vegetables, and a drizzle of rich sauce. You’ll enjoy both the flavors and the sheer joy of mixing it all together as you dig in. Let’s dive into making your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl, each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing unique flavors and eye-catching appeal. Grab these pantry staples and veggies—you’ll be amazed at how much flavor each one brings to the table.
- Cooked jasmine rice: Jasmine rice is aromatic and perfectly sticky, making it the ideal foundation for soaking up all the toppings and sauces.
- Diced cooked chicken or pork: Choose whichever protein you love or have leftovers of—both add satisfying substance and soak up the seasonings beautifully.
- Sautéed bok choy: This leafy Chinese green delivers a pop of color and a sweet, earthy crunch to every bite.
- Shredded carrots: Carrots add brilliant orange hues and gentle sweetness, studding the bowl with nutritional goodness and fresh bite.
- Bean sprouts: These give your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl a lovely, crisp freshness and a hint of nutty flavor.
- Sliced scallions: Scallions brighten each bite with mild onion flavor and a sunny green garnish.
- Soy sauce: Just a drizzle ties everything together with savory, umami depth.
- Sesame oil: Its nutty aroma is essential—this finishing oil turns every spoonful from plain to indulgent.
- Minced garlic: A single clove does wonders in the aromatics department, infusing your protein and rice with classic Chinese flavor.
- Grated ginger: This transforms the dish with a burst of zesty, warming flavor.
- Fried or soft-boiled egg (optional): Layering on an egg adds creamy richness and extra protein—a classic Ban Fan topping!
- Chili oil or hot sauce (optional): For those who like some heat, a little spicy drizzle makes every bite even more exciting.
How to Make Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat your skillet over medium flame and pour in the sesame oil. Once it shimmers, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir these around for about 30 seconds—they’ll go fragrant and fill your kitchen with that signature “something good’s cooking” aroma. This is the flavor base that pulls the whole Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl together.
Step 2: Warm the Protein
Add the diced cooked chicken or pork into the fragrant oil and aromatics. You just want to reheat the protein and let it soak up those gorgeous garlicky, gingery notes. Once warmed through, scoop it out and set aside so it stays juicy and doesn’t overcook.
Step 3: Prepare Your Rice Base
Scoop the warm, fluffy jasmine rice into your favorite serving bowls. Take a moment to fluff it gently with a fork so every grain is separate but cozy—this is the plush bed that everything else will rest on.
Step 4: Top With Veggies and Protein
Arrange sautéed bok choy, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, scallions, and your warmed protein right over the rice. You can go for neat piles or a more freestyle scatter; either way, aim for a riot of colors that makes your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl too pretty to eat (at least for a second!).
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Drizzle everything with soy sauce for a hit of umami. For ultimate satisfaction, nestle a crispy fried or dreamy soft-boiled egg on top, then add a splash of chili oil or hot sauce if you’re craving extra heat. Now, you’re ready to serve—and dig in.
How to Serve Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes make a world of difference! Sprinkle over extra scallions for crunch and color, a pinch of sesame seeds for nutty appeal, or a handful of chopped cilantro for an herby bite. If you’re feeling indulgent, try fried shallots or a drizzle of seasoned soy sauce for more savory depth.
Side Dishes
Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl pairs beautifully with light sides like crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of hot-and-sour soup. A plate of steamed dumplings or crunchy spring rolls also makes this meal feel like an at-home feast. Keep the sides simple so the main bowl shines!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, set up a DIY Ban Fan bar and let everyone build their own bowl. Arrange toppings in little bowls so friends or family can mix and match their favorites. Serving in colorful bowls or with a side of pickled veggies turns a regular dinner into a festive, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pack each component in separate airtight containers. The rice can go in one, the veggies and protein in another, and toppings like sauces or eggs in small containers. Everything will last up to 3 days in the fridge, and keeping items separate ensures maximum freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked jasmine rice and the sautéed meat for up to one month if you want to get ahead! Cool everything to room temperature and seal in freezer-safe bags. Avoid freezing fresh vegetables—they’ll lose their crunch on thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rice and protein gently in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to perk things up. Assemble the vegetables fresh if possible, or quickly warm them in a pan to restore texture. Assemble your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl as usual, and finish with fresh garnishes and sauce just before serving.
FAQs
What proteins work best in Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl?
This dish shines with chicken and pork, but it’s fantastic with tofu, beef, shrimp, or even flaked fish. Feel free to use leftovers or whatever protein you love most!
Is jasmine rice essential, or can I use other kinds?
Jasmine rice lends a beautiful fragrance and texture, but you can absolutely use other cooked rice like short-grain, brown rice, or even quinoa for a twist. Just aim for a rice that clings together but isn’t mushy.
What’s the best way to make this vegetarian?
Swap out the meat for cubes of tofu or tempeh. Sauté them until golden in the same sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for maximum flavor—your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl will be just as hearty and satisfying.
How spicy can I make this dish?
Spice is totally up to you! Start with a little chili oil or hot sauce and ramp it up for those who crave heat. You can customize each bowl, so spice lovers and mild fans are both happy.
Can I prepare this for meal prep?
Absolutely! Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl is perfect for prepping ahead. Portion out your rice and toppings in containers, keep moist ingredients and garnishes separate, and assemble your bowl fresh each day for a quick, vibrant meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dive into your own Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a cozy solo dinner, it’s endlessly adaptable, irresistibly delicious, and always satisfying. Pull out your favorite bowl and get ready to create a new staple you’ll want to return to again and again—happy cooking!
Print
Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Ban Fan is a delightful Chinese mixed rice bowl that offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the day.
Ingredients
Jasmine Rice:
2 cups cooked jasmine rice,
Protein:
1/2 cup diced cooked chicken or pork,
Bok Choy:
1/2 cup sautéed bok choy,
Carrots:
1/4 cup shredded carrots,
Bean Sprouts:
1/4 cup bean sprouts,
Scallions:
1/4 cup sliced scallions,
Seasonings:
1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger,
Additional:
1 fried or soft-boiled egg (optional), chili oil or hot sauce (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Protein: Stir in the cooked chicken or pork to reheat, then remove from the pan.
- Assemble Bowls: In serving bowls, add a base of warm jasmine rice. Top with the sautéed bok choy, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, scallions, and the cooked meat.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle soy sauce over the top and add a fried or soft-boiled egg if desired. Finish with chili oil or hot sauce for extra heat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- This dish is highly customizable. You can substitute the protein with tofu for a vegetarian option or use leftover meats.
- Add other vegetables like mushrooms or snap peas as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
