This tasty shrimp fried rice is a quick meal filled with colorful veggies and juicy shrimp. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and comes together in no time!
Honestly, who can resist the mix of shrimp and vegetables with a little soy sauce? I love making it on busy nights—it always lifts my spirits and fills my belly! 🍤🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for fried rice, but you can use long-grain rice or basmati if that’s what you have. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled, preferably a day old, to avoid mushiness.
Shrimp: I like using medium shrimp, but feel free to use large or small ones. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp, try diced chicken or tofu instead for a different protein option!
Eggs: Two large eggs add richness and texture, but you can skip them for a vegan version. Just add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to keep it hearty.
Frozen Peas and Diced Carrots: These add color and sweetness. Fresh peas or other veggies like corn or bell peppers can work too! Just chop them to similar sizes for even cooking.
Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce gives flavor without too much salt. If you’re watching your sodium, go for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get My Rice Perfectly Fried?
This dish hinges on how well you fry the rice. The key is using day-old rice, as it dries out slightly, helping it fry without becoming soggy. Here’s a quick tip:
- Break up clumps before adding to the pan. This helps each grain fry evenly.
- Use high heat. It’ll give a nice toasty flavor.
- Quickly stir-fry. Don’t let the rice sit too long! Keep it moving to ensure even cooking.
Following these steps will give you a delicious texture with every bite. Enjoy cooking!
Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 lb (225g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouthwatering shrimp fried rice recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
In the same pan, drizzle in another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs, allowing them to scramble until just cooked, which should take about a minute. Once done, take the eggs out and add them to the bowl with the shrimp.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the last tablespoon of oil to the pan and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced carrots and frozen peas. Stir-fry these veggies for 2-3 minutes until they are tender and vibrant.
5. Add the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the cooked rice! Break up any clumps and add it directly to the pan. Stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes to get it slightly toasted. This will enhance its flavor!
6. Combine All Ingredients:
Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan. Gently stir everything together until it’s well combined.
7. Season and Serve:
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Mix everything well to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauces. Finally, add the chopped green onions and stir for another minute.
8. Final Touches:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper if necessary. When you’re satisfied with the flavor, it’s time to serve! Enjoy your hot and satisfying homemade shrimp fried rice!
Can I Use Fresh Shrimp Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp are a great choice and will yield delicious results. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined before cooking. You might need to slightly adjust the cooking time if they’re larger than medium shrimp.
Can I Make This Without Eggs?
Yes, you can easily omit the eggs for a lighter dish or a vegan version. You can replace the eggs with extra veggies, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to maintain a hearty texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead?
Yes, you can use brown rice if you prefer. Just note that it may require a longer cooking time, so ensure your rice is cooked through before adding it to the pan!