This shrimp fried rice is a quick and tasty meal! Full of juicy shrimp, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s perfect for busy nights.
It’s fun to whip up, and who doesn’t love a one-pan dish? I love adding a splash of soy sauce to give it a kick. It’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: I recommend using day-old jasmine rice because it’s drier and won’t clump together. If you don’t have old rice, you can use long-grain rice or even brown rice, but you may need to adjust cooking times.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are ideal for this dish, but feel free to use any shrimp size you prefer. Cooked shrimp saves time, and if you want a vegetarian version, you can substitute tofu or just increase the veggies.
Vegetable Oil: Regular vegetable oil works well, but you can also use peanut oil for a twist. For a healthier option, try olive oil, but keep in mind it might impart a different flavor.
Oyster Sauce: While it’s optional, it adds great depth. If you don’t eat shellfish or need a vegan option, use a mushroom-based oyster sauce or skip it altogether and add an extra splash of soy sauce.
How Can I Avoid Soggy Fried Rice?
A common concern is ending up with soggy fried rice. To make sure your rice is fluffy, use day-old rice, as it prevents excess moisture. Here are some tips:
- Use a large, hot skillet or wok to ensure high heat while cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan with ingredients; this helps everything cook evenly.
- Push the items around as you cook, allowing the rice to get that nice crispiness on the bottom.
- Try not to stir too much after adding the rice, as you want it to fry rather than steam.
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious, non-soggy fried rice every time!
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 lb (225g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious shrimp fried rice can be made in about 20-25 minutes total! You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping and about 15-20 minutes cooking. Quick and simple for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp. Lightly season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 minutes or until the onion turns fragrant and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Add Vegetables:
Now, add the diced carrots, frozen peas, and corn kernels (if using) to the pan. Cook everything together for around 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Push all the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add the last tablespoon of oil to the cleared side and pour in the beaten eggs. Stir the eggs gently, scrambling them until just cooked through, which should take about a minute.
5. Combine Rice and Ingredients:
Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps using a spatula. Stir everything together so that the eggs, vegetables, and rice are well combined.
6. Season and Finish:\h4>
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Then, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors and become slightly crispy.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Do a quick taste test and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, as needed. It should be flavorful but not overly salty.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your shrimp fried rice with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your colorful, flavorful dinner!
Dig into this easy shrimp fried rice that brings together delicious flavors in a quick and satisfying way!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking. The cooking time remains the same, around 2-3 minutes per side.
What If I Don’t Have Day-Old Rice?
No worries! If you’re short on time, you can cook fresh rice and let it cool while you prepare the other ingredients. Spreading the hot rice on a baking sheet can also help it cool quicker and reduce moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your fried rice with other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through, or warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
