Easy Fried Rice
Easy Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings restaurant-style flavors to your home kitchen in just 20 minutes! It’s an excellent way to utilize leftover rice while offering versatility for various occasions. Whether served as a side or a quick meal, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish even on the busiest days.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it adaptable to your preferences.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil delivers a savory taste that elevates leftover rice.
- Family-Friendly: This Easy Fried Rice recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family meals.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one skillet or wok.
Tools and Preparation
To make Easy Fried Rice effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for frying the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every grain of rice is coated with flavor.
Ingredients
Easy restaurant style fried rice that you can make at home in 20 minutes! The perfect way to use up leftover rice sitting in the fridge.
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked rice (long or short grain)
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs (whisked)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 Tablespoons lite soy sauce (more if desired)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (or oyster sauce)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
How to Make Easy Fried Rice
Step 1: Chill the Rice
- Place the cooked rice in the refrigerator to chill until ready to use. This helps prevent clumping during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Eggs
- In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and carrots; cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in minced garlic and frozen peas; push vegetables to one side of the skillet.
- Pour whisked eggs into the skillet; scramble them until fully cooked.
- Mix everything together gently.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Gently stir in the chilled cooked rice into the skillet.
- Add soy sauce and sesame oil; toss everything to coat well.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serve warm for an enjoyable meal!
Now you have a simple yet flavorful Easy Fried Rice recipe that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Serve Easy Fried Rice
Easy Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve it as a side or make it the star of your meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with Grilled Chicken: The savory flavors of chicken complement the fried rice perfectly.
- Serve with Dumplings: These add a delightful texture contrast and enhance the meal.
- Accompany with Stir-Fried Vegetables: Fresh veggies provide a healthy balance and vibrant colors.
In a Bowl
- Top with Sliced Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
- Garnish with Sesame Seeds: These enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Add Hot Sauce for Heat: Spice things up by drizzling your favorite hot sauce on top.
As a Main Course
- Mix in Some Protein: Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a complete meal.
- Serve with a Fried Egg on Top: This adds richness and makes it more filling.
How to Perfect Easy Fried Rice
To make your Easy Fried Rice even better, follow these simple tips.
- Use Cold Rice: Cold rice helps prevent clumping and ensures even frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect texture.
- Add Soy Sauce Gradually: This allows you to control the flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or broccoli according to your taste preferences.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that wonderful fried flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Fried Rice
Pairing Easy Fried Rice with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:
- Egg Rolls: Crunchy and filled with vegetables, they make an excellent appetizer.
- Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these can enhance your Asian-themed meal.
- Sweet and Sour Chicken: A classic dish that provides a delicious contrast to fried rice.
- Kung Pao Chicken: For those who enjoy spicy food, this dish adds heat and flavor.
- Teriyaki Salmon: The sweetness of teriyaki complements the savory notes of fried rice beautifully.
- Miso Soup: A warm and comforting soup that balances out the meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Fried Rice can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid for a delicious dish.
- Using warm rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Always use chilled rice from the refrigerator.
- Not enough oil: If there’s not enough fat in the pan, the rice will stick. Ensure you use enough butter or oil to coat the ingredients well.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Overcooked veggies lose their crunch and flavor. Sauté them just until tender for the best texture.
- Skipping seasoning: A bland dish is never appealing. Be sure to season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt to enhance flavor.
- Crowding the pan: If you add too many ingredients at once, it will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Easy Fried Rice in an airtight container.
- It can last in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Easy Fried Rice
- To freeze, place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It keeps well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of water or oil, then stir-fry until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Fried Rice.
What type of rice is best for Easy Fried Rice?
For best results, use day-old cooked rice or chilled rice. Long-grain varieties work well as they remain fluffy during frying.
Can I add other vegetables to Easy Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your fried rice by adding bell peppers, corn, or broccoli based on your preference.
How do I make Easy Fried Rice vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the eggs or replace them with tofu for added protein.
Can I use leftover takeout rice for Easy Fried Rice?
Yes! Leftover takeout rice is perfect for this recipe as it’s already cooked and often has great flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Fried Rice recipe is not only quick but also versatile! You can easily customize it to include your favorite ingredients or seasonal vegetables. Whether you’re using leftover rice or creating a new dish from scratch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!
Easy Fried Rice
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Fried Rice is a quick and delicious way to transform leftover rice into a flavorful meal in just 20 minutes. With its savory combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, this dish captures restaurant-quality taste right in your home kitchen. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, you can customize it with your choice of vegetables and proteins. The beauty of Easy Fried Rice lies in its simplicity and versatility—it’s perfect as a side dish or the main event on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked rice (long or short grain)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs (whisked)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1–2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons lite soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chill the cooked rice in the refrigerator to prevent clumping.
- In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots; cook for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and peas, pushing them to one side of the skillet. Pour in whisked eggs and scramble until cooked.
- Gently mix in chilled rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper; stir until everything is well-coated.
- Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
