American fried rice

American fried rice is a unique Thai-Chinese dish that enhances traditional fried rice with "American" additions such as fried chicken, ham, hot dogs, raisins, and ketchup. For those feeling adventurous, pineapple or croutons can also be added.

Legend has it that Khun Ying Sureepan Maneewat, an employee at the Ratchathani Restaurant in Don Mueang Airport, created this dish. She ingeniously repurposed leftover American breakfast ingredients by blending them with fried rice, giving birth to what we now know as American fried rice. Another account attributes its creation to a Thai chef known as "Go Jek" who allegedly devised the dish during the Vietnam War to suit the palates of American soldiers stationed in Thailand.

Although its precise origins are somewhat ambiguous, it is evident that American fried rice was initially uncommon in Thai restaurants outside Thailand. However, its distinctive combination of Thai and American flavors has gradually gained popularity, especially in Thai eateries in the United States. This dish embodies a true culinary fusion, seamlessly merging the best elements of both cultures.