Introduction
Transform leftover rice and a few pantry staples into a restaurant-quality Shrimp Fried Rice! This recipe is super easy, crazy delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch. Get ready to wow your family with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Why This Works
This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe works because it’s all about balance. The salty shrimp, the savory soy sauce, the sweet veggies, and the fluffy rice all come together in perfect harmony. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – use whatever veggies you have on hand! It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked rice, saving you time and effort.
Key Ingredients
- 🍤 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 🍚 3 cups cooked long-grain rice, cooled
- 🥚 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🥕 1 medium carrot, julienned or diced
- 🫑 1 medium bell pepper (any color), diced
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌱 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 🥄 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
- 🥢 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds umami!)
- 🍳 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
2️⃣ Push the vegetables to the side of the wok. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the center. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Break them up into small pieces.
3️⃣ Add the cooked rice to the wok and break it up with a spoon or spatula, making sure to mix it well with the vegetables and eggs.
4️⃣ Add the shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
5️⃣ Stir in the green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use leftover cooked rice – it’s ideal for fried rice as it fries up better than freshly cooked rice.
- Don’t overcrowd the wok or skillet. Work in batches if needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some soy sauces are saltier than others.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is key for this recipe. It allows you to quickly stir-fry the ingredients and get that nice, slightly crispy texture on the rice and vegetables without burning anything. If the heat is too low, the rice will become soggy. If it’s too high, the ingredients will burn before they cook through.
Crunch Factor
The slight crispiness of the rice and vegetables is a crucial part of what makes this fried rice so delicious. Be sure not to overcook the ingredients, or they’ll become mushy.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for extra flavor.
- For extra color and flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have oyster sauce, a dash of fish sauce can be a good substitute.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be a quick and easy alternative to chopping fresh vegetables.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Shrimp Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This Shrimp Fried Rice would make a thoughtful and delicious gift! Package it in a pretty, reusable container and add a handwritten note.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for some extra heat.
🌟 Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice: Add ½ cup of diced pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
🌟 Vegetable Shrimp Fried Rice: Add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms.
🌟 Shrimp Fried Rice with Cashews: Stir in ½ cup of roasted cashews for added crunch and flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Rice is too sticky: Use leftover rice that has been cooled completely, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Shrimp is overcooked: Add the shrimp towards the end of the cooking process, to prevent overcooking.
- Fried rice is bland: Add more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or a splash of sesame oil to taste.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables of your choice like tofu.
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it may require a little more cooking time as it’s usually drier than white rice.
- What if I don’t have oyster sauce? You can omit it or use a substitute like fish sauce.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prepare the vegetables and other ingredients beforehand, and then stir-fry everything together right before serving.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us on RateMyRecipes! Enjoy!