This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is a tasty dish that comes together in no time! With fluffy rice, juicy shrimp, and colorful veggies, it’s perfect for busy days.
I love how I can whip this up using leftover rice—no waste! Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Rice: Day-old cooked rice gives the best texture for fried rice. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook some and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool—this helps reduce moisture.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen work too! Just thaw them in cold water. You can also substitute with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein.
Vegetable Oil: I usually use vegetable oil for frying because it has a high smoke point. You can use canola or peanut oil instead. For a unique twist, sesame oil adds flavor, but it has a lower smoke point, so use it sparingly in the cooking process.
Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work great too! If you’re in a pinch, frozen mixed vegetables can save time.
How Do I Ensure My Fried Rice Doesn’t Turn Out Mushy?
To prevent mushy fried rice, use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice retains too much moisture, leading to clumping. Here’s how to keep your fried rice light and fluffy:
- Make sure your rice is fully cooled before using.
- If using fresh rice, let it sit in a thin layer to cool and dry out a bit.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this lets steam escape and keeps the rice from sticking.
- High heat is key! It helps the rice fry quickly without steaming.
By following these tips, you’ll create perfectly fluffy shrimp fried rice every time!
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe for Quick Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 lb (about 225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or scallions, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick 20-minute meal! With minimal clean-up and delicious results, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced carrots, green peas, corn (if using), and chopped onion. Stir-fry all the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender and bright in color.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, creating a little space. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan. Scramble the eggs in that space until they are just set, then mix everything together with the veggies.
4. Add the Rice and Flavorings:
Now, add the minced garlic and cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything well to combine. Pour in the soy sauce, optional oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed and everything is heated through.
5. Incorporate the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss gently to incorporate them with the rice and vegetables. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish your shrimp fried rice with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve it hot and enjoy this quick and delicious meal!
This shrimp fried rice is delightful and incredibly easy to throw together. Perfect for when you want something satisfying and homemade in a flash!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp beforehand. You can do this by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What Can I Substitute for the Vegetables?
You can use just about any vegetables you have on hand! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work great in this fried rice. If you are short on fresh veggies, feel free to use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! While fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Store the cooked rice and prepped vegetables in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then stir-fry them when you’re ready to eat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
