This Shrimp Fried Rice is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for a quick meal. With juicy shrimp, veggies, and fluffy rice all fried together, it’s delicious and filling!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip this up with leftover rice. Plus, you can toss in whatever veggies you have—no waste here! 🍤🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here, giving great flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, use smaller shrimp or even frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are thawed properly before cooking!
Jasmine Rice: This rice adds a lovely fragrance and texture. Day-old rice is recommended as it’s firmer and won’t get mushy. If you don’t have it, long-grain white rice or basmati can work. Just avoid short-grain rice.
Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil is best for frying. If you have it on hand, consider using sesame oil for one of the tablespoons to add a hint of nuttiness to the dish.
Vegetables: Peas and carrots provide color and nutrients, but feel free to switch them with bell peppers, broccoli, or corn based on what you like or have available.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp for Fried Rice?
Cooking the shrimp just right is vital for this dish. Follow these simple steps:
- Use medium-high heat to ensure they cook quickly. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper before adding to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and pink. Remove them immediately so they stay juicy!
With these tips, your shrimp fried rice will shine, making it a go-to meal that’s quick and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Estimated Time:
This delicious shrimp fried rice takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 15 minutes of cooking, totaling around 25 minutes to make. Quick, easy, and so rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking 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 and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and lightly browned. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Scrambling the Eggs:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until just cooked (it should take about 1 minute). Once done, remove the eggs and set them aside with the shrimp.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Now, add in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and peas to the skillet. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 2-3 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the peas are bright green.
4. Adding the Rice:
It’s time for the rice! Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mix for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to heat through and absorb the delicious flavors.
5. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over everything, mixing well to ensure all ingredients are coated in flavor. Stir for another minute to combine all the elements.
6. Final Touches:
Finally, toss in the sliced green onions and give everything a good stir for about a minute. This will add a fresh crunch and flavor.
7. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if you like. Serve the shrimp fried rice hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This shrimp fried rice recipe is a fantastic way to combine perfectly seared shrimp, fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and a dash of flavor all in one bowl. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp first. You can thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can easily customize this fried rice with your favorite vegetables! Feel free to swap in bell peppers, corn, edamame, or even chopped spinach. The key is to use vegetables that you enjoy and that cook well at the same time as the others.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! For a vegan version, substitute the shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables, and skip the eggs. Use plant-based soy sauce and consider adding some nutritional yeast for a savory flavor boost!