Introduction
There’s something truly satisfying about a hot plate of shrimp fried rice. The combination of succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and aromatic seasonings makes this dish a crowd favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a way to use up leftover rice, this authentic shrimp fried rice recipe is the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can recreate this restaurant-style dish right in your kitchen.
This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that rival your favorite takeout. The best part? You can customize it with your preferred ingredients. Let’s dive into this delicious homemade shrimp fried rice recipe that you can make in just 20 minutes!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Authentic Flavor: Just like your favorite Asian restaurant.
- One-Pan Dish: Less mess and minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to your taste.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Great way to use up day-old rice.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fried Rice
To create the best shrimp fried rice, you need simple yet flavorful ingredients. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice (preferably day-old) | 3 cups |
| Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1/2 pound |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Carrots (diced) | 1/2 cup |
| Peas | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
| Cooking oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
- Chop all vegetables and prepare the shrimp.
- Whisk the eggs separately in a small bowl.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Pour in the eggs and scramble lightly.
- Once cooked, remove and set aside with the shrimp.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add more oil and sauté the garlic, carrots, and peas until tender.
- Toss in the green onions and stir well.
Step 5: Combine & Season
- Add the cold rice and break it up with a spatula.
- Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce, then mix well.
- Add back the cooked shrimp and eggs, stirring everything together.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Drizzle sesame oil over the rice for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Fried Rice
- Use cold rice: Freshly cooked rice is too sticky; day-old rice gives the perfect texture.
- Cook on high heat: This prevents soggy rice and enhances the authentic fried rice taste.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly, so remove them as soon as they turn pink.
- Soy sauce & oyster sauce balance: The perfect mix of umami flavors.
- Customize with add-ins: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a unique twist.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Swap shrimp for tofu or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili flakes.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead.
- Extra Protein: Toss in chicken or beef for variety.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Heat in a hot pan with a splash of water to refresh the flavors.
- Freezing: Can be stored for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best rice for fried rice?
Day-old jasmine rice works best for a non-sticky texture.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
3. Why is my fried rice mushy?
Avoid using freshly cooked rice; chilled rice holds up better.
4. What other sauces can I use?
Hoisin sauce, fish sauce, or a dash of rice vinegar for added depth.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything and store it. Reheat in a hot pan for freshness.
Conclusion
This quick and flavorful shrimp fried rice is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. With its rich blend of shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. The best part? It’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your liking. Try this restaurant-quality shrimp fried rice recipe today and share your experience in the comments below!