This Easy Fried Rice recipe is a quick and tasty way to enjoy a favorite meal at home. With fluffy rice, colorful veggies, and a hint of soy sauce, it’s bursting with flavor!
Honestly, it’s so good that I’ve stopped ordering out. Plus, it’s a perfect way to use up leftovers! Just toss everything in the pan, and dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Using day-old, chilled cooked rice gives the best texture as it’s less sticky. However, you can use freshly cooked rice—just spread it out to cool and let steam escape for 15-20 minutes after cooking.
Eggs: You can substitute eggs with tofu for a vegan version. Just scramble the tofu similarly, adding a pinch of turmeric for color if you like, or leave it out for a simple taste.
Vegetables: The frozen peas and carrots mix is great for convenience. Feel free to swap with any veggies you have—bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work wonderfully!
Oils: I prefer sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but vegetable oil is a good neutral option. For a twist, you can even use coconut oil.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium levels in check. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari instead!
How Do You Make Sure Your Fried Rice Isn’t Sticky?
A common struggle is ending up with sticky rice. Here’s how to avoid it:
- Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best results. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist.
- Break up clumps before cooking. Use your spatula to separate any large pieces.
- Cook on high heat. This helps evaporate excess moisture quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan. If making a big batch, consider frying rice in smaller portions.
This approach keeps your ingredients from steaming in the pan and ensures a light, fluffy fried rice.
Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook. In just around 25-30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Scramble the Eggs:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until just cooked. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in the chopped onion and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Veggies:
Next, add the minced garlic along with the thawed frozen peas and carrots. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and vibrant.
4. Mix in the Rice:
Now, grab your chilled cooked rice and add it to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir-fry everything together so the rice mixes well with the veggies.
5. Season the Rice:
Drizzle the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly to coat all the grains. Season with white pepper and salt to taste.
6. Add the Eggs Back:
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, folding them into the rice mixture to combine. Keep cooking for a minute so everything is heated through.
7. Final Touch with Green Onions:
Finally, stir in the green parts of the green onions and give it a quick cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and serve your delicious fried rice hot. Enjoy it on its own or as a perfect side dish!
This fried rice is not only tasty but also quick and easy, making it a wonderful weeknight meal. Enjoy your homemade feast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but keep in mind it may require a longer cooking time and more moisture. Make sure it’s fully cooked and chilled before using it in the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Any Frozen Vegetables?
No problem! You can use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli—just chop them into small pieces and sauté them until tender. This will add a fresh crunch to your fried rice!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this fried rice vegan by omitting the eggs and replacing them with scrambled tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water. Just scramble the tofu or chickpea mixture in the pan as you would the eggs!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water in a pan or microwave to keep it moist, and heat until warm.
