Shrimp fried rice is a fantastic dish that brings together tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and colorful vegetables in a savory, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and can be whipped up quickly, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Here’s how to make this flavorful dish:
Ingredients
- 500g (2 1/2 cups; 1.1 lb) cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for best texture)
- 250g (0.55 lb) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large eggs
- 150g (1 cup; 0.33 lb) frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 50g (1/4 cup; 0.11 lb) green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic (about 6g; 0.013 lb), minced
- 3 tablespoons (45ml; 0.1 lb) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml; 0.03 lb) sesame oil
- Vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- If using leftover rice, break up any clumps so that it’s loose and ready to stir-fry. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for a few minutes to reduce moisture.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels.
- Chop the green onions and mince the garlic.
- If the peas and carrots are frozen, thaw them by placing them in a bowl of warm water or microwaving them for a few minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
- Scramble the Eggs:
- In the same skillet, add a little more vegetable oil if needed.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them gently. Cook until they are just set, then remove them from the pan and set aside with the shrimp.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the skillet if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the peas and carrots, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan.
- Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Green Onions:
- Stir in the chopped green onions just before serving to add a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Serve:
- Transfer the shrimp fried rice to a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Garnish with additional green onions if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Fried Rice
- Day-Old Rice: Using rice that has been cooked and chilled overnight helps prevent it from becoming mushy during stir-frying. If you use fresh rice, let it cool to room temperature before cooking.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures the rice gets a nice sear and prevents it from becoming too soft. Keep the ingredients moving in the pan to avoid burning.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or snap peas. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer.
- Seasoning: Adjust the soy sauce and seasoning according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
This Quick and Tasty Shrimp Fried Rice is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or a satisfying lunch. With its savory shrimp, flavorful soy sauce, and fresh vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures with each bite of this easy-to-make, restaurant-quality dish!
