Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Easy Shrimp Fried Rice. Growing up, my family would whip this dish up on busy weeknights, and the aroma of sautéing vegetables and succulent shrimp would fill the air, beckoning everyone to gather at the table. It was quick, delicious, and a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. Now, I carry on this tradition, often inviting friends over to share in the joy of this simple yet satisfying meal. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a cozy gathering, Easy Shrimp Fried Rice never fails to impress.

Ingredients for Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

When crafting a wonderful Easy Shrimp Fried Rice, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The key players here are the rice, shrimp, and a vibrant mix of vegetables that bring both nutrition and flavor to the dish.

• 4 cups day-old cooked rice (such as Jasmine or Basmati) – The foundation of this dish, day-old rice is essential for achieving the ideal texture, allowing each grain to stand alone rather than clump together.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – A healthy choice for frying, olive oil adds a subtle richness while ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
• 2 large eggs (beaten) – These add a wonderful protein boost and a fluffy texture that elevates the dish.
• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Succulent and juicy, shrimp are the star protein, bringing both flavor and a delightful contrast to the rice.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – This oil gives the dish its signature flavor, imparting a warm, nutty aroma that is simply irresistible.
• 1 small onion (chopped) – A classic aromatic, onion brings a depth of flavor as it caramelizes during cooking.
• 1 medium green bell pepper (chopped) – For color and crunch, bell peppers add a fresh pop that brightens the dish.
• 1 small carrot (chopped) – Sweet and tender when cooked, carrots add a touch of sweetness and a delightful texture contrast.
• ½ cup peas (frozen) – A burst of sweetness and color, peas round out the dish, providing a nutritional boost.
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium) – This is essential for seasoning and adding umami depth to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – A sprinkle of pepper elevates the flavors and balances the dish.

Cooking Instructions for Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

Cooking Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is a delightful and rewarding experience. Each step is simple, and the results are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Season the eggs with a bit of salt and pepper. In a non-stick skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, pour in the beaten eggs. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring gently until scrambled. Flip them over and cook for another minute until fully set. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside.
2. Add the other tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and heat it again. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns golden and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the eggs.
3. In the same pan, add the sesame oil and let it heat up. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrots soften. The aroma will be heavenly at this point!
4. Add in the frozen peas and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the peas are no longer frozen and have warmed through. This should add a lovely splash of color to your dish.
5. Next, chop the scrambled omelette into small thin pieces and set aside.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and mix well, ensuring each grain is coated with the sauce.
7. Finally, return the cooked shrimp and chopped eggs to the pan. Gently toss everything together, allowing the Easy Shrimp Fried Rice to heat through for a couple of minutes. You want everything to be well combined and hot.
8. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Easy Shrimp Fried Rice!

Expert Tips about Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

To make your culinary experience even better, here are some expert tips to ensure your Easy Shrimp Fried Rice turns out fantastic every time.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: You can freeze Easy Shrimp Fried Rice for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Cooking method: Feel free to use a wok instead of a skillet for even better heat distribution.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different sauces like oyster sauce or chili paste for an extra kick!

What to Pair With Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

When serving Easy Shrimp Fried Rice, there are numerous delicious options to consider that can enhance your dining experience.

• Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus dressing complements the flavors perfectly.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer that pairs wonderfully with fried rice.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas add a nutritious element to your meal.
• Soup: A bowl of miso soup or hot and sour soup can serve as a warm starter.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a satisfying meal during festive gatherings.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!

Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is quick, savory, and packed with flavor. This easy weeknight dinner is a fantastic way to transform leftover rice into a delicious meal your family will love. Perfect for busy evenings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• COOKLOVER Nonstick Saute Pan Induction Skillet with lid 9.5 inch – Black

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups day-old cooked rice such as Jasmine or Basmati
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large eggs beaten
• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 small onion chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
• 1 small carrot chopped
• ½ cup peas frozen
• ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium
• ¼ teaspoon pepper or to taste

Instructions

 

• Season the eggs with a bit of salt and pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a pan and heat it over medium high heat. Add the beaten eggs to the pan and cook for about 1 to 2 min. Flip them over and cook for 1 minute. Remove the eggs from pan and set aside.
• Add the other tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add to the pan. Cook the shrimp about 2 to 3 min per side, or until the shrimp starts to get golden. Remove the shrimp from the pan.
• Add the sesame oil to the pan and heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper and carrot to the pan and saute for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrots soften up. Add the frozen peas and season a bit with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes until the peas are no longer frozen and cook a bit.
• Chop the omelette into small thin pieces. Add the cooked rice to the pan, add the soy sauce over the rice. Throw in the shrimp and chopped egg. Toss everything together and cook for a couple more minutes then serve.

Notes

• Use day-old rice for the best results: Fresh rice can get too mushy when fried.
• Cook the eggs and shrimp separately: This keeps everything perfectly cooked and easy to toss together at the end.
• Add a splash of soy sauce: When reheating leftovers, this keeps the rice from drying out.
• Swap proteins: You can easily swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or your favorite protein.

Keyword easy fried rice recipe, Quick Dinner Ideas, shrimp fried rice, shrimp recipes

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Meet Lydia James

I’m Lydia! I love the challenge of experimenting with new ingredients and finding creative, delicious ways to use up leftovers. My goal is to make your weeknight cooking feel stress-free, exciting, and full of flavor. I loved the creative process behind this dish, and I really hope it becomes a new favorite in your weekly rotation. I can't wait to hear what you think!