Here’s an easy and flavorful recipe for Fried Rice that you can customize with your favorite veggies and proteins! It’s quick to make and perfect for using up leftover rice.
Classic Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked, cold rice (preferably day-old rice)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn, or diced bell peppers)
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
Protein (Optional):
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or diced ham
Seasoning:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional, for richer flavor)
- ½ tsp sesame oil (optional, for aroma)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- If you don’t have leftover rice, cook rice and let it cool completely. Cold rice works best because it doesn’t clump together when frying.
- Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Veggies:
- Add the remaining oil to the pan. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Add Protein (Optional):
- If using cooked protein (like chicken, shrimp, or tofu), add it to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
- Add Rice:
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the cold rice. Break up any clumps with your spatula and mix everything together.
- Season the Fried Rice:
- Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and sugar (if using) over the rice. Stir well to combine and evenly coat the rice.
- Add the Eggs and Finish:
- Stir the scrambled eggs back into the rice. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve hot!
Tips & Variations
- Rice Tip: Day-old rice is less sticky and fries better. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet to cool and dry out slightly.
- Protein Alternatives: Try bacon, sausage, or even leftover turkey for variety.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, or bok choy are great options.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or sriracha for some heat.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the eggs and use tofu as the protein.
Enjoy this quick and versatile dish—it’s perfect as a standalone meal or a side! 🍚✨