Introduction
Egg fried rice is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style. It’s quick, flavorful, and can be made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. I first learned how to make this dish when I was looking for a way to use up leftover rice. Little did I know, it would become one of my go-to recipes for busy nights when I want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time.
The beauty of egg fried rice is its versatility. You can add vegetables, meat, or even keep it simple with just eggs and a few seasonings. Whether you’re making it as a main dish or a side, it’s always delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out the fridge! Over the years, I’ve perfected my version, and it’s now the recipe I turn to when I want a quick, flavorful meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
The key to making the best egg fried rice is using day-old rice. It’s drier and easier to fry, preventing that mushy texture you sometimes get when using freshly cooked rice. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a plate of golden, aromatic fried rice that’s better than takeout. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
Egg fried rice is incredibly adaptable. You can add any leftover veggies or protein you have on hand. Whether it’s chicken, shrimp, or tofu, it’ll work perfectly in this dish. You can also switch up the seasonings and sauces to suit your tastes.
Budget-Friendly
This recipe is a great option if you’re looking to make something flavorful without breaking the bank. It uses affordable ingredients that you can find in any grocery store, and it’s a great way to repurpose leftover rice.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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2 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1/2 small onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any vegetables you prefer)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Egg fried rice is one of those dishes that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for customizing. Whether you want to keep it light with just eggs or add some extra protein, this recipe will guide you step by step for a quick and delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the rice
Start by preparing your rice. It’s best to use day-old rice for egg fried rice because it’s drier and less sticky, making it easier to fry. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook it fresh, but make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before frying. This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
Step 2: Scramble the eggs
In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Let them cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to scramble. Once they’re cooked through but still tender, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. If you’re using frozen peas and carrots, add them at this stage and cook for another 2 minutes until they’re heated through. You can also use any other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. The key is to get them tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Stir-fry the rice
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooled rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with your spatula, stirring the rice constantly to ensure it’s evenly heated. Keep stir-frying for about 3-5 minutes, making sure the rice gets a little crispy in places, which adds great texture to the dish.
Step 5: Add the seasoning
Now it’s time to add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice, then add the oyster sauce for a deeper, savory flavor. Stir everything well to coat the rice evenly in the sauces. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. You can also add a dash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Combine the eggs and rice
Once the rice is nicely coated and heated through, add the scrambled eggs back into the pan. Stir everything together so that the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the rice. Let the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Once everything is cooked and mixed, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the egg fried rice as a standalone dish or alongside other main courses like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
Quick and Easy
One of the best things about this egg fried rice recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in about 20 minutes. It’s the perfect option when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Plus, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a crowd.
Customizable
Egg fried rice is incredibly customizable. If you want to add some protein, you can toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even leftover beef. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, depending on what you have in the fridge. For a more indulgent version, add a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil to amp up the flavor. You can even make it spicy by adding a bit of chili paste or chopped fresh chilies.
Perfect for Guests
This egg fried rice is perfect for entertaining guests. It’s simple, flavorful, and sure to impress. Serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or dumplings for a full, satisfying meal. If you’re hosting a potluck or a casual dinner party, this dish will be a hit because it’s easy to make in large quantities and can be customized to suit your guests’ preferences.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?
While day-old rice is ideal for egg fried rice because it’s drier and less sticky, you can use freshly cooked rice. Just be sure to let it cool completely before frying to avoid a mushy texture.
What vegetables can I add to egg fried rice?
You can add any vegetables you like! Common choices include peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers, and green beans. For extra flavor, you could also add mushrooms or spinach.
Can I add protein to the fried rice?
Definitely! You can add chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu for added protein. Leftover meats work great for this recipe, or you can cook the protein separately and stir it in towards the end.
How do I make the fried rice spicier?
If you like your fried rice spicy, simply add a teaspoon of chili paste or chopped fresh chilies when you’re stirring in the soy sauce. You can adjust the heat to your preference!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make egg fried rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to loosen the rice.