An easy fried rice recipe is a versatile and quick dish that makes for a delicious meal or side dish. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with various proteins and vegetables. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for you to try:
Easy Fried Rice Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, or beef, diced
- Extra vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms
Instructions:
- Prepare the Rice:
- If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 1/2 cups of rice according to the package instructions and let it cool completely. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky.
- Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender.
- Add the Rice:
- Increase the heat to high.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables for a few minutes until the rice is heated through.
- Season the Fried Rice:
- Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice. Stir well to combine.
- Drizzle with sesame oil (if using) for extra flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine All Ingredients:
- Add the scrambled eggs back to the pan and mix them into the rice.
- If using any additional proteins or vegetables, add them now and stir to combine.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve the fried rice hot.
Tips:
- Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice because it is less sticky and fries better. If you have to use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out slightly before using.
- Soy Sauce: Adjust the amount of soy sauce based on your taste preference and the saltiness of the soy sauce you are using.
- Vegetables: You can use fresh, frozen, or leftover vegetables. Just make sure they are cooked until tender.
- Protein: Add any cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the fried rice more filling.