If you’ve ever wanted a satisfying, colorful, and utterly comforting meal that comes together in a flash, then this Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Picture fluffy jasmine rice layered with tender shredded chicken or pork, crisp sautéed greens, fresh crunchy veggies, and that perfect fried or soft-boiled egg crowning it all—everything brightened by a simple, savory sauce that ties every bite together. This dish invites you to mix and match, so you can tailor it to your cravings while embracing the flavors of a beloved Chinese classic in a way that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe lies in how straightforward yet impactful the ingredients are. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmony of textures and flavors—from the fragrant jasmine rice base to the fresh crunch of vegetables and the rich, aromatic sauce that brings it all together.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: The fragrant foundation that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken or pork: Adds tender, savory protein to keep things hearty.
- 1/2 cup sautéed bok choy or spinach: Brings a mild bitterness and vibrant green color for balance.
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots: Offers a subtle sweetness and crunch that enlivens each bite.
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers: Adds a refreshing, cool contrast to the warm ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides that essential umami punch to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a toasty, nutty aroma.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten flavors.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Gives a subtle savory kick to the dressing.
- 1 egg (fried or soft boiled): The crowning glory for richness and texture.
- 1 green onion (sliced): Adds freshness and a mild oniony crunch as a garnish.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: Provides a delicate nutty crunch for texture contrast.
- Chili oil or sauce to taste (optional): For those who like a bit of heat to elevate the dish.
How to Make Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Start by having all your components ready: cooked jasmine rice warm and fluffy, shredded chicken or pork perfectly cooked, and your greens sautéed just until tender but still vibrant. Shred the carrots, slice the cucumbers, mince the garlic, and slice the green onions for garnish.
Step 2: Assemble the rice bowl
Place your warm cooked jasmine rice at the base of a bowl. Then, thoughtfully arrange the shredded chicken or pork, sautéed bok choy or spinach, shredded carrots, and fresh cucumber slices on top of the rice in neat sections. This not only looks inviting but allows each flavor to shine individually before mixing.
Step 3: Make the savory sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and the minced garlic. This simple yet flavorful sauce is the magic that ties the whole dish together with a perfect balance of savory, nutty, and tangy notes.
Step 4: Drizzle and top
Drizzle the sauce evenly over the arranged ingredients in your bowl. Next, place a fried or soft-boiled egg on top—the richness of the egg yolk is what truly elevates this dish to another level of comfort food bliss.
Step 5: Garnish and optional spice
Finish off your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe by sprinkling the sliced green onion and sesame seeds across the top. For anyone who loves a little kick, drizzle some chili oil or your favorite chili sauce to personalize your bowl.
Step 6: Mix and enjoy!
Before digging in, mix all the elements together so every bite delivers a medley of textures and flavors. This is your perfect one-bowl meal with layers of savory, crunchy, soft, and spicy notes all mingling delightfully.
How to Serve Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions is all it takes to add that extra pop of flavor and crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few cilantro leaves or a zest of lime can also bring freshness to the dish.
Side Dishes
While this bowl makes a complete meal on its own, pairing it with light side dishes such as steamed dumplings, a simple miso soup, or pickled vegetables can complement the hearty textures and enhance your dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or infuse a bit of fun, serve your Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe in individual stone bowls to keep the rice warm or assemble a DIY spread where everyone picks their favorite toppings to create personalized bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers to preserve freshness—the rice, protein, veggies, and sauce should be kept apart if possible. This prevents sogginess and maintains each element’s texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked shredded chicken or pork, sautéed greens, and even pre-made sauce. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then quickly reheat before assembling your bowl.
Reheating
When reheating, warm your rice in the microwave with a damp paper towel over it to keep it moist. Reheat the protein and greens gently in a skillet or microwave. Add fresh raw ingredients like cucumber and garnishes only after reheating to retain their crunch.
FAQs
Can I make Ban Fan vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the shredded chicken or pork with firm tofu or tempeh, and feel free to add extra mushrooms or bean sprouts for added texture and flavor. The sauce and fresh veggies remain the same to keep that authentic taste.
Is Ban Fan typically spicy?
Traditional Ban Fan is not usually spicy, but adding chili oil or chili sauce is a popular way to customize the heat level according to your preference—so it can be as mild or fiery as you like.
What type of rice is best for Ban Fan?
Jasmine rice is the ideal choice because of its fragrant aroma and soft texture, which perfectly complements the savory toppings and sauce. You can use short-grain rice if that’s what you have on hand, but jasmine is preferred.
Can I prepare Ban Fan ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes, you can prep ingredients in advance and assemble the bowl right before eating to keep everything fresh. Keep ingredients separately refrigerated to maintain texture and flavor until serving.
What variations exist for Ban Fan recipes?
Ban Fan is wonderfully flexible. Beyond protein swaps, you can incorporate different vegetables like pickled radish, bean sprouts, or broccoli. Some versions include a drizzle of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra depth.
Final Thoughts
Making Ban Fan: Chinese Mixed Rice Bowl Recipe at home is like opening the door to a world of flavor, texture, and comfort with every spoonful. It’s quick, adaptable, and perfect for any day you crave a nourishing meal that feels special yet familiar. So go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it becoming your go-to bowl for lunches, dinners, or anytime you want a delicious Chinese-inspired meal that hugs you from the inside out.
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: Assembled
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Ban Fan is a vibrant and customizable Chinese mixed rice bowl featuring a base of warm jasmine rice topped with savory shredded chicken or pork, sautéed greens, fresh vegetables, and a perfectly cooked egg. Enhanced with a flavorful soy and sesame dressing, this easy-to-assemble dish offers a balanced meal with a delightful mix of textures and flavors, ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Rice Base
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
Proteins
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken or pork
- 1 egg (fried or soft boiled)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup sautéed bok choy or spinach
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 green onion (sliced)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Garnishes
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Chili oil or sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Base: Start by placing 2 cups of warm cooked jasmine rice into a serving bowl as the foundation of your dish.
- Arrange the Toppings: Neatly arrange 1/2 cup of cooked shredded chicken or pork, 1/2 cup of sautéed bok choy or spinach, 1/4 cup shredded carrots, and 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers on top of the rice in separate sections to keep the flavors distinct.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and 1 minced garlic clove. Stir well to create a savory dressing.
- Drizzle the Sauce: Evenly pour the prepared sauce over the arranged ingredients in the bowl to infuse flavor.
- Add the Egg: Top the bowl with a perfectly cooked egg – fried or soft boiled – to add richness and protein.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions and 1 teaspoon sesame seeds over the top. Add chili oil or sauce according to your heat preference for a little kick.
- Mix and Serve: Before eating, thoroughly mix all components together to combine the flavors and enjoy your nourishing Ban Fan rice bowl.
Notes
- Ban Fan is highly adaptable—swap in tofu for a vegetarian option or add toppings like mushrooms, bean sprouts, or pickled radish.
- This dish is a fantastic way to use leftovers, providing balance with both protein and vegetables in a convenient one-bowl meal.
- Adjust the chili oil quantity to control the spiciness according to your taste.
