This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is a delicious and quick meal. With juicy shrimp, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s perfect for busy days when you crave something tasty!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just stir-fry everything in one pan, and you’ll have a yummy meal in no time. I love adding a sprinkle of soy sauce at the end for extra flavor! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Using chilled cooked rice is key for fried rice. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice and spread it on a tray to cool down quickly. I find day-old rice gives the best texture!
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works great here. If shrimp isn’t available, diced chicken or tofu are good alternatives. I sometimes even add leftover cooked meats for extra flavor.
Vegetable Oil or Sesame Oil: I love using sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but any neutral oil will work too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil is a great choice!
Veggies: The recipe suggests carrots, peas, and corn, but feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add a nice touch. Just make sure to chop them small for even cooking.
How Do I Cook Perfect Fried Rice?
Cooking fried rice might feel tricky, but it’s straightforward once you get the hang of it. Here are some tips to nail it!
- **Use Chilled Rice:** Cold rice prevents clumping and helps achieve that desired fried texture. A quick tip is to make rice ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours.
- **High Heat is Key:** Ensure your skillet or wok is hot. This gives the rice a nice sear and prevents it from being mushy.
- **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** If making a larger batch, cook in batches to allow for even frying. Too many ingredients at once can steam instead of fry.
- **Season Last:** Adding soy sauce too early can make the rice soggy. Mix it in toward the end for better control on saltiness and texture.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious fried rice every time!
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe for Quick Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably chilled)
- 1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or scallions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious shrimp fried rice in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook them until they turn pink and are fully cooked, which should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them cook for a minute or two, stirring gently to scramble them until they are just set. Once done, remove the eggs from the skillet and keep them with the shrimp.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these for about 1-2 minutes or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step adds a beautiful base flavor to your fried rice.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the diced carrot, green peas, and corn. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but still retain some crunch for the best texture.
5. Add the Rice:
Next, add the chilled cooked rice to the skillet. Make sure to break apart any clumps so it gets heated evenly. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes until the rice is warmed through.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan. Mix everything meticulously to combine all the ingredients together evenly.
7. Season and Cook:
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce if you’re using it. Be sure to season with salt and pepper to taste as you toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your shrimp fried rice with chopped green onions or scallions before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal hot!
This quick and flavorful shrimp fried rice is sure to be a hit for any meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen shrimp work well. If using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly under cold running water.
What Type of Rice Is Best to Use?
Chilled, cooked white rice is ideal for fried rice, as it prevents clumping. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can make fresh rice and let it cool down on a baking sheet for 30 minutes to speed up the chilling process!
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
