Fried Rice Recipe
Fried Rice Recipe
Table of Contents
Fried Rice Recipe
This easy and delicious fried rice recipe is a perfect dish for using leftover rice. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can make a flavorful and customizable meal in no time. Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or a vegetarian version, this fried rice recipe is both quick and versatile, making it a family favorite for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.
Description
Fried rice is one of the most popular and comforting dishes in Chinese cuisine, known for its savory flavors, satisfying texture, and versatility. This simple fried rice recipe brings together the best of crispy, seasoned rice, mixed with fresh vegetables and protein choices, creating a dish that’s both filling and tasty. If you’ve ever wondered how to make fried rice at home, this recipe provides all the essential ingredients and easy to follow steps for an authentic tasting dish.
A key to great fried rice is using cold, day old rice because it keeps the grains separate and prevents the dish from becoming soggy. If you don’t have leftovers, you can make fresh rice and let it cool for a few minutes to mimic the same effect. This recipe works well with various proteins chicken, shrimp, or even tofu making it a perfect option for any diet.
Whether you want a simple vegetarian fried rice or one loaded with eggs and meat, this dish is customizable. The key flavor components in this fried rice recipe include soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of garlic, which create a balanced, savory taste. If you like it spicy, you can add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce for extra heat.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, fried rice is quick to prepare, satisfying, and cost effective. By following this easy fried rice recipe, you’ll enjoy an authentic, restaurant quality dish in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cold, cooked rice (preferably day old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil (for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for balance)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: If you’re using freshly cooked rice, make sure to let it cool down for about 15 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy when fried. Day old rice works best since the grains are firm and less sticky.
- Heat the pan: Heat a large wok or skillet over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom.
- Cook the vegetables: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the hot pan. Stir fry for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions soften. Add your mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn or any other veggies of your choice) and stir fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them for about 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Once scrambled, mix the eggs with the veggies.
- Add the rice: Add the cold rice into the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir well to combine the rice with the vegetables and eggs.
- Season the rice: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly coated in the sauces. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to become slightly crispy on the bottom for added texture.
- Optional proteins: If you’re adding chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add the cooked protein now and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce if necessary.
- Garnish and serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
you may like : Benihana Fried Rice Recipe
Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cold cooked rice (preferably day old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil for extra flavor
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional, for added depth
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar optional, for balance
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil for flavor
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: If you’re using freshly cooked rice, make sure to let it cool down for about 15 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy when fried. Day old rice works best since the grains are firm and less sticky.
- Heat the pan: Heat a large wok or skillet over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom.
- Cook the vegetables: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the hot pan. Stir fry for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions soften. Add your mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn or any other veggies of your choice) and stir fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them for about 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Once scrambled, mix the eggs with the veggies.
- Add the rice: Add the cold rice into the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir well to combine the rice with the vegetables and eggs.
- Season the rice: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly coated in the sauces. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to become slightly crispy on the bottom for added texture.
- Optional proteins: If you’re adding chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add the cooked protein now and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce if necessary.
- Garnish and serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Rice: Always use cold, leftover rice for the best texture. If you’re using fresh rice, let it cool down in a shallow pan or tray for a few minutes to get rid of excess moisture.
- Vegetables: You can use frozen mixed vegetables, bell peppers, or any other veggies you like. The more colorful, the better
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu depending on your dietary preferences. You can even leave the protein out for a fully vegetarian fried rice.
- Flavor Boosters: Add chili flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or a splash of fish sauce for a more flavorful, authentic touch. Adjust the soy sauce based on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Serving Suggestions: Fried rice can be served on its own or paired with other Asian inspired dishes like spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple stir fry.