Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – A fast dish that comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to make it your own.
• Leftover-friendly – A great way to use up leftover rice and ingredients.
• Flavorful – Packed with savory, umami-rich flavors from soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil.
• One-pan dish – Minimal cleanup, as everything is cooked in one pan or wok.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for better texture)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (or any other vegetables of your choice)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the rice – If using leftover rice, break up any clumps and ensure it’s separated. If making fresh rice, allow it to cool before using for fried rice. Day-old rice is best as it has a firmer texture.
2. Cook the vegetables – Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the carrot and peas – Add the diced carrots and frozen peas to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
4. Scramble the eggs – Push the vegetables to the side of the pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the empty side, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs, cooking them until just set, then mix them with the vegetables.
5. Add the rice – Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps as you stir. Stir everything together so that the rice is well-coated with the oil and cooked through.
6. Season the fried rice – Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce as needed.
7. Finish and serve – Garnish the fried rice with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein – Add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu for a more filling meal. Just chop the protein into bite-sized pieces and stir it into the rice before adding the soy sauce.
• Vegetarian/Vegan – Omit the egg or use a plant-based egg alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
• Spicy Fried Rice – Add a bit of chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to spice up the dish.
• Other Veggies – Feel free to add or swap in any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Pineapple Fried Rice – For a sweet and savory version, toss in some diced pineapple for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze fried rice for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the rice in a pan over medium heat, adding a small splash of water to help it rehydrate. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use either white or brown rice for fried rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice will have a nuttier flavor and firmer texture.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones. Just be sure to cook them until tender before adding the rice.

Why is day-old rice best for fried rice?

Day-old rice has had time to cool and dry out a bit, which helps it fry up better and prevents it from becoming mushy when you cook it. Fresh rice can be too moist for fried rice.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy-free alternative, try using tamari (for a gluten-free option), coconut aminos, or even just a little bit of salt for seasoning.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the fried rice in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. It also freezes well for future meals.

Can I add more spices to the fried rice?

Yes! You can add other spices like ginger, garlic powder, or five-spice powder for added depth of flavor. Experiment with seasonings to suit your taste!

Can I use brown rice for fried rice?

Yes! Brown rice works just as well for fried rice and adds a chewier texture and nuttier flavor. Be sure to use cooked and cooled brown rice for the best results.

Can I make fried rice without a wok?

While a wok is ideal because of its high sides, a large skillet or frying pan will work just as well. Just ensure you have enough surface area to properly fry the rice.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being too oily?

If you’re finding the fried rice too oily, reduce the amount of oil used and ensure you’re using a non-stick skillet or wok to cook it evenly without needing excess oil.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Add chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Fried rice is one of those versatile dishes that you can easily adapt to whatever you have on hand. Whether you make it as a side or a main dish, it’s always flavorful, satisfying, and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious, hearty meal in under 30 minutes. Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins or spices to make this dish your own. Enjoy your homemade fried rice!

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