Shrimp Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Fried Rice is the perfect balance of savory, salty, and umami flavors. The shrimp adds a touch of sweetness, while the soy sauce and sesame oil bring a depth of flavor to the dish. With the addition of vegetables like peas, carrots, and green onions, it’s both tasty and nutritious. This dish is easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose leftover rice, making it both cost-effective and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)

• 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)

• 1/2 cup carrots (diced)

• 3 green onions (chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 2 large eggs (beaten)

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Cook the shrimp:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables:

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

2. Add the diced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

3. Add the peas, garlic, and green onions, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Scramble the eggs:

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side.

2. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.

4. Add the rice:

1. Add the day-old rice to the skillet and break up any clumps with a spatula.

2. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly mixed with the vegetables and eggs.

5. Season the rice:

1. Drizzle the soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.

2. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.

6. Serve:

1. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

2. Serve the Shrimp Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Skip the shrimp and use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or baby corn.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the rice for an extra kick of heat.

• Other proteins: You can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or for a different protein option. Cook the protein first and set it aside before adding the vegetables.

• Rice variations: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier or lower-carb alternative to white rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Shrimp Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the fried rice for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s drier and less sticky, but if you don’t have any, you can use fresh rice. Just spread the freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for 10-15 minutes to reduce excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the fried rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like broccoli, corn, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the carrots and peas.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, if you prefer heat, you can add chili flakes, a chopped fresh chili, or a tablespoon of sriracha sauce to the rice while cooking.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use cooked brown rice for a healthier version of this dish. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the shrimp and use tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also add more vegetables to make the dish more filling.

8. How do I keep the rice from being too sticky?

Make sure to use cooled rice for fried rice, as it prevents the rice from being too sticky. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool before using.

9. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use tamari (for a gluten-free version) or coconut aminos as an alternative to soy sauce for a similar flavor.

10. Can I add eggs to this dish?

Yes, eggs are commonly added to fried rice. Scramble them in the skillet and mix them with the rice and vegetables for added texture and protein.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and turn it into a delicious, balanced meal with succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone meal or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, versatile, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food with an Asian twist!

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