Shrimp fried rice is a tasty and colorful dish, filled with juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and bright vegetables. It’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy days!
I love how you can use leftover rice and whip it into something special. Just toss it all in a pan, and you’ve got dinner in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Using chilled, day-old rice is best since it’s drier and helps achieve that perfect fried texture. If you’re short on time, any cooked rice will do. Quinoa could also work for a healthier twist!
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well. If you don’t eat seafood, try diced chicken or tofu as a substitute. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Vegetable Oil: I use vegetable oil for high heat cooking. Canola or peanut oil are great alternatives too. For added flavor, consider using sesame oil instead.
Eggs: These add richness and texture. If you’re vegan, you could try silken tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water as an egg substitute to create a similar texture.
Green Peas and Carrots: Frozen peas are super convenient! For carrots, feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Quickly and Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick and simple, but it’s easy to overcook. Here’s a foolproof method:
- Heat oil in the skillet until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot.
- Add shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. They cook fast, so keep an eye on them!
- Remove them as soon as they’re done to avoid overcooking. They’ll continue to cook a bit from residual heat.
By following this, you’ll ensure juicy and tender shrimp every time, making your fried rice a delight!
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably chilled)
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This shrimp fried rice recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp. Season lightly with a bit of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
In the same pan, add a little more vegetable oil as needed. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them gently. Cook until they’re fully set, then remove them from the pan and set aside with the shrimp.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry everything for about 30 seconds or until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the diced carrots, green peas, and corn if you’re using it. Cook these vegetables for about 2-3 minutes until they become tender. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
5. Incorporate the Rice:
Then it’s time to add the chilled cooked rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables, ensuring everything is well mixed and heated through.
6. Mix in the Shrimp and Eggs:
Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Season the Fried Rice:
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, tasting and adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your shrimp fried rice with the green parts of the sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade dish!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish. Just keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time, so be sure to use pre-cooked brown rice for a quicker preparation.
What If I Don’t Have Shrimp?
No problem! You can easily substitute shrimp with diced chicken, tofu, or even cooked beef. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure your protein is thoroughly cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and cook them until tender.
