Description
This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and fluffy, day-old rice stir-fried with eggs and savory sauces. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it delivers a satisfying balance of textures and umami flavors with minimal prep and cook time.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Rice & Grains
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced (or frozen peas and carrots)
- 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Oils & Sauces
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for added umami)
Other
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the diced onion and carrots (or peas and carrots) and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked.
- Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to crisp up slightly.
- Season and Combine: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture. Stir everything to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until well-mixed and heated through.
- Final Seasoning: Season with black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Serve: Garnish the fried rice with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious shrimp fried rice!
Notes
- For best results, use day-old rice as it is drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- You can substitute vegetables based on preference or seasonality, such as adding bell peppers or corn.
- The oyster sauce is optional but adds a rich umami flavor; omit for a vegetarian adaptation.
- If gluten-free is necessary, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- To make this dish spicier, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce when seasoning.
