This Easy Fried Rice is a fun and tasty dish that beats takeout any day! With colorful veggies and fluffy rice, it’s perfect for using up leftovers.
I love how quick it comes together. Just toss everything in one pan, and you’ve got a meal that’s ready in no time. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients! 🍚🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice is perfect here because it’s drier and fries better. If you don’t have any, cook fresh rice and spread it on a baking sheet to cool and dry out for at least 30 minutes.
Vegetable Oil: This oil is great for frying but feel free to use canola or sesame oil for a different flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on oil, consider using cooking spray.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: This mix is super convenient! You can substitute with any other frozen veggies like corn, bell peppers, or even chopped broccoli. Fresh vegetables also work well; just make sure to chop them finely.
Eggs: Eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try scrambled tofu or skip the eggs altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Stir-Fry Rice Without Clumps?
To ensure your fried rice doesn’t clump together, use chilled, day-old rice if possible. If making fresh rice, let it cool completely. When stir-frying, break up any clumps before adding the ingredients.
- Use a large skillet or wok; this allows the rice to spread out and fry evenly.
- Heat the pan well before adding rice. This prevents sticking and helps the rice to crisp up.
- Keep the rice moving in the pan with a spatula to help it fry evenly without sticking together.
Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Veggies & Flavor:
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fried Rice comes together in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend around 5 minutes on prep and 15 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Onions:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the diced onions and sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Adding Vegetables:
Next, add the thawed peas and carrots mix to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and warmed through.
4. Frying the Rice:
Now it’s time for the star of the dish! Add the chilled, cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps as you mix it in with the veggies. Stir-fry everything for about 3-4 minutes, letting the rice get slightly crispy.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Stir in the cooked scrambled eggs along with the chopped green onions. Give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors.
6. Seasoning the Dish:
Sprinkle the garlic powder or minced garlic over the rice and mix well. Then pour the soy sauce evenly over the rice, stirring until all the rice is evenly coated. If you’re using sesame oil, drizzle it over and give it one last stir!
7. Final Touches:
Now, taste your fried rice and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, soy sauce can be salty, so adjust to your preference.
8. Serve It Up:
Serve the fried rice hot, and feel free to garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will give your fried rice a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you may need to adjust the liquid accordingly depending on how it’s prepared.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make the fried rice vegan, simply omit the eggs. You can also replace them with scrambled tofu for a similar texture. Just season the tofu with soy sauce and spices to enhance the flavor!
Can I Add More Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Just stir-fry the protein of your choice before adding the veggies, or mix it in after the rice is added to ensure everything is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to help prevent it from drying out!
