Egg Fried Rice

by

Egg fried rice is a beloved classic that never fails to please. This simple yet delicious dish combines fluffy jasmine rice with tender scrambled eggs, savory veggies, and a flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch option, this egg fried rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into the details of how to whip up this delightful dish in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (leftover, cold rice works best)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ¼ large Vidalia onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Green onion, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook jasmine rice according to package directions and set aside. Alternatively, use leftover cold rice for added convenience.
  2. Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onions are soft, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Add frozen peas and carrots and cook until partially thawed, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add Rice: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cooked rice to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is hot and starts to brown slightly.
  4. Scramble Eggs: Push the rice to the sides of the pan, creating a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the center of the pan and scramble them until cooked. Once cooked, mix the scrambled eggs into the rice.
  5. Add Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the rice and stir until the rice is evenly coated.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the egg fried rice with chopped green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 per serving

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Egg Fried Rice as a standalone dish for a quick and satisfying meal, or pair it with your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial dinner.
  2. Garnish each serving with thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for added flavor and visual appeal.
  3. For an extra burst of freshness, serve with a wedge of lime on the side to squeeze over the rice just before eating.
  4. Serve Egg Fried Rice alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fried vegetables, spring rolls, or teriyaki skewers for a complete meal experience.
  5. Pack leftover Egg Fried Rice into individual meal prep containers for a convenient and delicious lunch option to take to work or school.

Storage Tips:

  1. Allow any leftover Egg Fried Rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  2. Store leftover rice in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive its moisture.
  3. To freeze, portion the cooled rice into freezer-safe bags or containers and label with the date. Frozen rice can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
  4. When ready to eat, thaw frozen rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop until piping hot.
  5. Avoid reheating rice more than once to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

Variations:

  1. Shrimp Fried Rice: Add cooked shrimp to the rice for a protein-packed variation.
  2. Vegetable Fried Rice: Load up on colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a vegetarian delight.
  3. Chicken Fried Rice: Stir in diced cooked chicken breast for a classic take on this dish.
  4. Pork Fried Rice: Use cooked diced pork or leftover roast pork for a flavorful twist.
  5. Beef Fried Rice: Add thinly sliced cooked beef or steak for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  6. Tofu Fried Rice: Swap out the eggs for cubes of firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  7. Spicy Fried Rice: Add chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery kick.
  8. Pineapple Fried Rice: Stir in diced pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor.
  9. Kimchi Fried Rice: Add chopped kimchi for a burst of fermented goodness and umami flavor.
  10. Curry Fried Rice: Mix in your favorite curry powder or paste for a fragrant and aromatic twist.
  11. Garlic Fried Rice: Infuse the rice with extra garlic for a bold and aromatic flavor profile.
  12. Ginger Fried Rice: Add grated ginger for a zesty and refreshing taste.
  13. Soy Ginger Fried Rice: Combine soy sauce and ginger for a dynamic flavor duo.
  14. Mushroom Fried Rice: Add sliced mushrooms for a savory and earthy variation.
  15. Eggplant Fried Rice: Incorporate diced eggplant for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option.
  16. Cashew Fried Rice: Stir in toasted cashews for a crunchy and nutty texture.
  17. Sesame Fried Rice: Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor boost.
  18. Coconut Fried Rice: Cook the rice in coconut milk for a creamy and tropical variation.
  19. Lemon Fried Rice: Add lemon zest and juice for a bright and refreshing twist.
  20. Sriracha Fried Rice: Stir in a generous drizzle of sriracha sauce for a spicy and tangy kick.
  21. Cilantro Lime Fried Rice: Mix in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh and vibrant flavor.
  22. Teriyaki Fried Rice: Toss with teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
  23. Thai Basil Fried Rice: Add Thai basil leaves for a fragrant and herbaceous aroma.
  24. Jerk Fried Rice: Season with jerk seasoning for a Caribbean-inspired flavor explosion.
  25. Peanut Fried Rice: Stir in peanut butter or chopped peanuts for a rich and nutty flavor profile.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use any type of rice for Egg Fried Rice? While jasmine rice is traditionally used, you can also use long-grain white rice or brown rice for a nuttier flavor and chewier texture.
  2. How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming soggy? Ensure your rice is cold and dry before frying to prevent it from becoming mushy. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan and cook over high heat to achieve a crispy texture.
  3. Can I make Egg Fried Rice ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rice and chop the vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly. However, it’s best to cook the eggs and assemble the dish just before serving for optimal freshness.
  4. Can I customize the vegetables in Egg Fried Rice? Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand or prefer, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas.
  5. Is Egg Fried Rice gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure it remains gluten-free.
  6. Can I add more eggs for extra protein? Yes, feel free to add additional eggs if you prefer a higher egg-to-rice ratio or want to increase the protein content of the dish.
  7. Can I make Egg Fried Rice spicy? Yes, you can add chopped chili peppers, chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your preference.
  8. Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe? Absolutely! Leftover cooked rice works perfectly for fried rice as it tends to be drier and results in a better texture.
  9. How do I reheat leftover Egg Fried Rice? Reheat leftover fried rice in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this egg fried rice recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, next time you’re in need of a quick and tasty dish, give this egg fried rice recipe a try and prepare to be amazed by its simplicity and flavor!