Transform your dinner routine with Shrimp Fried Rice, a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this classic takeout favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
The combination of juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables tossed in a savory sauce makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. The beauty of Shrimp Fried Rice lies in its versatility—you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Let’s dive into the details to help you make this dish like a pro.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather two cups of cooked rice, ideally day-old for the best texture, half a pound of shrimp peeled and deveined, two beaten eggs, one cup of mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn, two minced garlic cloves, two chopped green onions, two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of oyster sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, one tablespoon of vegetable oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
Start by preparing your rice. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook fresh rice according to the package instructions and let it cool completely. Next, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about two to three minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the beaten eggs and cook until they’re scrambled, then remove them from the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one minute until fragrant. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for three to four minutes until they are tender.
Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry the mixture until everything is well combined and heated through. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, stir in the chopped green onions, and cook for an additional one to two minutes. Serve your Shrimp Fried Rice hot, and enjoy the rich flavors of this homemade delight.
Tips
For the best results, use rice that has been chilled overnight. This helps prevent the grains from clumping together during cooking. If you’re short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least an hour. When cooking the shrimp, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with additional sides. Consider serving it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed dumplings for a more elaborate spread. If you’re hosting a dinner, complement this dish with hot and sour soup or spring rolls for an authentic takeout experience.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the rice too soft.
FAQ
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes, chicken, pork, or tofu are great alternatives. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Is it necessary to use both soy sauce and oyster sauce?
The combination adds depth and umami to the dish, but if you prefer, you can use just one. Soy sauce alone will give a classic salty flavor, while oyster sauce provides a slightly sweeter, richer taste.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient option and work just as well as fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick, versatile dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a satisfying lunch, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish brings the joy of takeout straight to your table, without the wait or the expense.
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Shrimp Fried Rice: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Description
Shrimp Fried Rice combines tender shrimp, day-old rice, and mixed veggies in a savory sauce for a quick, flavorful meal ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
• 2 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old
• ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare rice: Use day-old rice or cook fresh and cool completely.
2️⃣ Cook shrimp: Heat vegetable oil, cook shrimp until pink, then set aside.
3️⃣ Scramble eggs: Cook beaten eggs in the same skillet, then remove.
4️⃣ Stir-fry veggies: Sauté garlic, add vegetables, and cook until tender.
5️⃣ Combine: Add shrimp, eggs, rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry until well mixed.
6️⃣ Season: Add salt, pepper, and green onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
7️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy!