Name: Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 3 cups rice ((cooked and cooled completely)); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; ¼ large yellow onion ((chopped)); 2 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 cup peas and carrots ((frozen)); 2 large eggs; ½ teaspoon sesame oil; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; green onions ((chopped))

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There’s something particularly comforting about a bowl of Better Than Takeout Fried Rice. It evokes memories of bustling takeout restaurants, where the sizzling sounds of woks and enticing aromas draw you in. I remember the first time I made fried rice at home; I wanted to recreate that perfect takeout flavor. After a few attempts, I stumbled upon a combination of ingredients and techniques that not only matched but surpassed my expectations. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability; you can whip it up using leftover rice and whatever veggies you have on hand. The result is a colorful, flavorful meal that never fails to satisfy.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re in a rush for a weeknight dinner or just craving a hearty lunch, Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is the answer. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those odds and ends in your fridge. The best part? You can personalize it to suit your taste, making it a fun creation every time. This dish has truly become a staple in my home, and I know it will be in yours too.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
24 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
14 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Better Than Takeout Fried Rice Shines

It’s Quick and Easy

When life gets hectic, Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is there to save the day. With a prep time of just ten minutes and a cook time of around fifteen, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. This simplicity is what makes it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Highly Customizable

One of the standout features of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. I’ve tried it with bell peppers, zucchini, and even broccoli, and each time, it’s been a hit!

Great for Leftovers

If you’re anything like me, you often find yourself with leftover rice. This dish is perfect for using it up! Just make sure your rice is cooled completely before adding it to the pan; this ensures those grains stay separate and don’t clump together.

Perfect for Meal Prep

With a recipe that serves four, Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is ideal for meal prepping. You can easily divide it into containers for lunch throughout the week, making your daily routine that much easier. Just reheat and enjoy!

Kid-Friendly

Kids love fried rice! This dish can be a great way to introduce them to vegetables they might otherwise shy away from. You can even let them pick their favorites to include, making it a fun cooking activity to do together.

Deliciously Satisfying

The combination of flavors in Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is fantastic. The salty soy sauce perfectly complements the fresh vegetables, and the eggs add a rich creaminess. It’s a dish that truly satisfies.

What to Buy for Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Understanding the ingredients is key to making a successful Better Than Takeout Fried Rice. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature flavor and texture. The use of cooked rice is essential; it helps create the iconic fried rice consistency. Pairing it with fresh vegetables and a splash of soy sauce offers a delightful balance of flavors.

3 cups of cooked rice (cooled completely) – Using leftover rice is ideal, as it’s drier and fries better than freshly cooked rice.
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil – This oil is perfect for frying as it has a high smoke point, allowing for a nice sear.
¼ large yellow onion (chopped) – Onions add a sweet and savory base to the dish.
2 cloves of garlic (minced) – Garlic enhances the flavor profile, giving it that aromatic touch.
1 cup of peas and carrots (frozen) – A quick and easy way to add some color and nutrition.
2 large eggs – Eggs provide protein and a creamy texture to the fried rice.
½ teaspoon sesame oil – For that nutty flavor that ties everything together.
3 tablespoons soy sauce – The key ingredient that gives fried rice its signature taste.
Green onions (chopped) – These are perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh crunch.

Recipe Directions for Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Making Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is straightforward and fun. It’s a wonderful hands-on cooking experience where you can see how all the ingredients come together. Let’s dive into the steps!

In a large skillet or wok, start by preheating vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning; you want to extract the flavors without any bitterness.
Next, it’s time to add the peas and carrots. Stir them in and let them cook until they’re partially thawed, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. You want them warm but still crunching slightly.
Now, turn the heat up to medium-high and introduce your cooked rice. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The rice should become hot and start to brown slightly, providing that delicious toasted flavor.
Once the rice is evenly heated, reduce the heat and push the rice to the sides of the pan, creating a space in the center. Crack the eggs into this space and scramble them gently. As they cook, they’ll turn a lovely golden color.
After the eggs are cooked, mix them into the rice, ensuring everything is combined. The eggs should be fluffy and evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Next, mix together the soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the rice and stir continuously until the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. This step is crucial for flavoring the entire dish.
Finally, remove your skillet from the heat and top your fried rice with chopped green onions and/or cilantro if you prefer. This adds a fresh touch that elevates the dish.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Day-Old Rice: It’s best to use rice that has been cooked and cooled. Day-old rice works wonders because it’s drier and prevents clumping when fried.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow ingredients to cook properly before adding the next one. This ensures each component is perfectly cooked and flavorful.
Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. Add more veggies or even some grilled chicken for extra protein.
Cook on High Heat: Frying the rice on medium-high heat helps to achieve that sought-after texture. This is where the crispy bits come from!

Ways to Customize

Everyone loves a little twist to classic recipes! Here are some fun ways to customize your Better Than Takeout Fried Rice:

Change Up the Protein: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein. Just ensure they’re precooked before adding.
Incorporate Different Vegetables: Switch up the veggies based on what’s seasonal or what you enjoy. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas work great!
Try Different Sauces: Explore other sauce options like teriyaki or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.
Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha right before serving for an extra kick.
Use Brown Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice. Just keep in mind that it may take longer to cook.
Top with Eggs: For a richer version, top your fried rice with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds creaminess.
Vegetarian or Vegan Options: Skip the eggs and use a plant-based protein like tempeh or seitan if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly dish.

Great Combinations for Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Serving Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is all about pairing it with complementary dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some ideas:

Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls make a great start to your meal, adding a crunch that pairs well with the softness of the fried rice.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: More veggies never hurt! A side of stir-fried greens like bok choy or broccoli balances the meal.
Egg Drop Soup: This classic soup is perfect for a comforting meal alongside your fried rice.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: If you’re looking for protein, these are a fantastic addition that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the fried rice.
Asian Salad: A light salad with sesame dressing can refresh your palate and is a great contrast to the fried rice.
Perfect for Lunch Boxes: This dish stores well and can be taken as a lunch option, making it versatile for any meal.
Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a party, Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use brown rice for Better Than Takeout Fried Rice. Just remember that it takes longer to cook than white rice—about 30 minutes longer, in fact. Make sure to allow the brown rice to cool completely before using it in the recipe. The chewy texture of brown rice can add a delightful contrast to the other ingredients. Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust as needed!

Fried rice is incredibly versatile when it comes to vegetables. You can include any of your favorites! Common choices are bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, or even snap peas. The key is to cut them into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies or what you have on hand to create your perfect version of Better Than Takeout Fried Rice.

To make your Better Than Takeout Fried Rice taste even better, consider using a combination of quality ingredients. Freshly minced garlic and ginger can enhance the flavor. A splash of sesame oil and a dash of white pepper can add depth too. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust the soy sauce to your liking. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors significantly!

Absolutely! You can easily make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice vegetarian by omitting the eggs or using a plant-based protein like tofu instead. Simply stir-fry the tofu until golden, then add the vegetables and rice as directed. You can also incorporate additional veggies or even mushrooms to give it a heartier texture. With the right combination, this dish can be both satisfying and meat-free!

Conclusion

In summary, Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is more than just a quick meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can satisfy any craving. This recipe offers a personal touch, allowing you to customize it to your liking while still achieving that authentic takeout taste. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t regret adding this dish to your repertoire. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!