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What if your favourite fried rice had a vibrant Ecuadorian twist? That’s precisely what chaulafan brings—a rich, flavorful dish infused with Latin spices, Chinese culinary techniques, and Ecuadorian soul. Often referred to as “Ecuadorian fried rice” (arroz charlatan), this dish is as colourful as it is versatile, making it a staple for celebrations and family gatherings in Ecuador.
If you’re intrigued by dishes that blend diverse cultures or are simply looking for a hearty one-pan meal to spice up your weeknight dinners, chaulafan is a perfect choice. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know to prepare a mouth-watering bowl of Charlatan ecuatoriano in your kitchen.
Introduction
Author Notes
Chaulafan has always held a special place in my heart. It’s a dish that captures Ecuador’s warm hospitality and love for bold flavours. Growing up in a home where food was central to every celebration, creating charlatans was always an event. It wasn’t just about cooking but sharing, laughing, and connecting over food. Whether you are new to Latin cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this dish will delight your taste buds and even create a few special memories.
Key Takeaways
- Chaulafan is Ecuador’s unique take on fried rice, heavily influenced by Chinese migration to South America.
- It’s a versatile, budget-friendly dish, easily customized with ingredients of your choice.
- Packed with layers of flavour, this recipe makes for a complete, satisfying meal.
Chaulafan Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
To make charlatan ecuatoriano, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- White rice (cooked and cooled): 3 cups
- Chicken breast (cooked, shredded): 1 cup
- Shrimp (peeled, cooked): 0.5 cup
- Chorizo or sausage (sliced): 0.5 cup
- Vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas): 1 cup (diced)
- Eggs (beaten): 3
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Onions (chopped): 1 small onion
- Soy sauce (plus more to taste): 0.25 cup
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil (for frying): 2 tablespoons
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish): 2
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Preparation Steps
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your chaulafan recipe:
Step 1: Prep your ingredients
Ensure all your ingredients are chopped, diced, and pre-cooked so the cooking process runs smoothly.
Step 2: Cook the eggs
Warm a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the beaten eggs and cook until fully set, breaking them into pieces. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
Pour in the rest of the vegetable oil along with the sesame oil, stirring to combine evenly in the pan. Stir-fry garlic and onions until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the vegetables and proteins
Toss in the vegetables, chorizo, cooked chicken, and cooked shrimp. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but crisp.
Step 5: Add the rice
Add the cooked white rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Season generously
Gently drizzle soy sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry everything together for another 5–7 minutes.
Step 7: Finish with eggs and garnish
Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
| Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 35 mins |
| Servings: 4 |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Note
- Cool your rice: Using cooked, cooled rice (preferably day-old) is essential for the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and will clump up.
Variations/Substitutions
- Swap shrimp for shredded pork or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add a spicy kick by including chilli paste or sliced jalapeños.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| 450 | 15g | 48g | 24g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
| 4g | 430mg | ||
| Fiber | Sodium |
Serving Suggestions
Serve chaulafan with a simple avocado salad on the side, made with fresh avocado slices, a sprinkle of salt, and a drizzle of lime juice, or pair it with a bowl of crispy fried plantain chips for a truly authentic Ecuadorian dining experience. For an extra flavour, include lime wedges on the side so everyone can add a zesty twist to taste. Complete the meal with a refreshing glass of tropical fruit juice, like passion fruit or guava, to transport your taste buds straight to Ecuador!
Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
Now that you’ve mastered chaulafan make it your own! Try swapping out the protein for chicken, tofu, or shrimp to give it a fresh twist. Experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to add colour and crunch, or play around with spices—maybe a dash of smoked paprika or a hint of cumin for extra depth. Don’t be afraid to get creative and adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. And if you love it, why not share the joy? Pass it on to friends or family—it might become a household classic and recipe everyone repeatedly returns to!
Conclusion
Chaulafan is not just food—it’s a story told through rich, layered flavours that reflect history and tradition. This iconic Ecuadorian dish is a delicious fusion of Chinese and Ecuadorian culinary influences, born from the migration of people and the blending of their cultures. Packed with ingredients like rice, vegetables, shrimp, chicken, or pork and seasoned with a medley of spices and sauces, charlatan celebrates diversity on a plate. It’s about more than just eating; it’s about the joy of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones. Whether exploring Ecuadorian cuisine for the first time or searching for your next favourite dish, arroz Chaplains offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more.
FAQ
Can I make a charlatan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the rice mixture and reheat it before serving. However, cook the rice fresh and use cooled day-old rice for best results.
Is charlatan a healthy meal option?
Chaulafan can be nutritious when balanced with vegetables, protein, and whole grains. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
Is charlatan similar to Chinese fried rice?
Chaulafan shares similarities with Chinese fried rice due to Chinese influence, but it features distinctly Ecuadorian ingredients like chorizo and unique spice blends.
Can I freeze leftover charlatan?
Absolutely! Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and place them in the freezer, where they can be kept fresh for up to three months. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
What makes charlatan different from other Latin American rice dishes?
Chaulafan stands out for its fusion of Chinese and Ecuadorian cuisines, making it unique to other rice-based dishes like arroz con pollo.
We hope this post inspires you to try your hand at charlatan ecuatoriano. Don’t keep the joy of this flavorful dish to yourself—share it! And if you’d like more recipes like this, subscribe now for exclusive access to our growing collection of Latin-inspired dishes.