This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is a tasty and quick dinner option! Filled with tender shrimp, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how simple it is to whip up this dish in just one pan. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rice—no waste here! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp really make this dish shine. If you’re shopping frozen, they’re just as great and convenient. You can also swap shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein!
Rice: Day-old rice is preferable since it’s less sticky. If you don’t have any pre-cooked rice, fresh rice can work too, just spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for a bit.
Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil like canola or sunflower works, but I often use sesame oil for extra flavor. You can also use olive oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Peas and Carrots: This mix is super convenient. Fresh veggies like bell peppers or broccoli could also work well. If you’re avoiding peas or carrots, any frozen vegetable mix will do!
Eggs: Eggs add fluffiness, but you can skip them for a vegan option or use some scrambled tofu instead.
How Do I Ensure My Fried Rice is Loaded with Flavor?
To get the best flavor in your fried rice, follow a few simple tips. Start by cooking the shrimp until they’re just pink; this keeps them juicy. Use high heat to help the rice fry nicely and develop a bit of crispiness!
- Make sure your rice is cool or day-old for the best texture.
- Stir-fry ingredients in the order of cooking time: start with shrimp, then veggies, and finally add eggs and rice.
- Mix well and let it fry without stirring for a bit, so it gets those lovely toasted bits.
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe for Dinner
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them together for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step builds a tasty base for your fried rice!
3. Adding Vegetables:
Next, add the frozen peas, carrots, and corn to the pan. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re heated through and slightly tender.
4. Scrambling the Eggs:
Now it’s time to push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble them gently until fully cooked, then mix in with the vegetable mixture.
5. Incorporating the Rice:
Once the eggs are cooked, add the cooked rice to the pan. Carefully mix everything together, breaking apart any clumps of rice. You want the rice to get well combined with the veggies and eggs.
6. Finishing Touches:
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir all the ingredients together and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
7. Season & Serve:
Give your fried rice a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious shrimp fried rice dinner!
FAQ: Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Can I Use Fresh Rice Instead of Day-Old Rice?
Yes, you can use fresh rice, but be sure to let it cool for a bit after cooking. Spread it on a baking sheet to help it cool down and dry out a little to prevent clumping in your fried rice.
What If I Don’t Have Shrimp?
No problem! You can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, tofu, or even just add more vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just ensure they are cooked through and tender before mixing them into the rice.
