This Easy Fried Rice recipe is a tasty way to use up leftover rice and veggies. It’s quick, colorful, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
I love how I can throw in whatever I have in the fridge—it’s like a fridge-clearing party! Plus, it’s so much better than takeout and takes just minutes to whip up.
Just stir-fry the ingredients in a pan, and you’ll have a delicious meal. Serve it up hot, and enjoy! You’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying this dish can be.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice because it’s drier and doesn’t clump. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool for about 30 minutes before using.
Vegetable Oil/Sesame Oil: I like using sesame oil for its nutty flavor. If that’s not available, any neutral oil like canola or sunflower works great, too. Just make sure to not use olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point.
Eggs: Scrambled eggs add protein and richness. If you want a vegan option, try using scrambled tofu or omit the eggs entirely. You can still have a delicious fried rice!
Peas and Carrots: The frozen mix is super convenient. If you prefer fresh veggies, cut up carrots, bell peppers, or even snap peas for a crunchier twist. Just remember to adjust cooking times for freshness.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is fantastic, but if you’re allergic to gluten, opt for tamari or coconut aminos. Adjust the amount based on your taste; you can even add a splash of low-sodium soy sauce.
How Do I Make Sure My Fried Rice Isn’t Soggy?
To keep your fried rice from becoming soggy, it’s all about the rice and cooking technique. Here are some useful tips:
- Use chilled, day-old rice if possible. Fresh rice tends to be moist and sticky.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If making a larger batch, fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crisping.
- Keep the heat high. This will help to quickly fry the rice without steaming it.
- Break up any clumps. Use a spatula to separate the rice as you stir, ensuring even cooking.
- Don’t over-sauce. Start with a smaller amount of soy sauce, as you can always add more later.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with lightly crispy and flavorful fried rice, just like your favorite takeout dish! Enjoy cooking!
Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old and chilled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for extra flavor
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork, diced (if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep and cooking time, making it a quick and easy option for dinner. With this speedy process, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Scramble the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Once they’re done, remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step builds a lovely base of flavor!
3. Cook the Veggies:
Stir in the thawed peas and carrots mix. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and vibrant in color. Vegetables add a nice crunch and color!
4. Add the Rice:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with the back of a spatula, and stir-fry until the rice is warmed and slightly toasted, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Combine in the Eggs:
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Mix everything together well so that the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the rice and veggies.
6. Season the Rice:
Pour soy sauce evenly over the rice mixture. Add black pepper, and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, include optional oyster or hoisin sauce for extra flavor. Stir thoroughly to combine.
7. Finish with Green Onions:
Toss in the sliced green onions and any cooked protein you want to add, like chicken, shrimp, or pork. Stir-fry for another minute to heat everything through.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your fried rice a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. Add more soy sauce or a sprinkle of pepper, if desired. It’s all about getting that flavor just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious fried rice hot, with chopsticks if you like! Enjoy every bite of your homemade, better-than-takeout meal!
This recipe yields about 4 servings and is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ for Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Yes! While white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice or jasmine rice for different flavors and textures. Just make sure they’re cooked and chilled before using to avoid sogginess.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can substitute the eggs with scrambled tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water. Alternatively, you can simply omit them altogether and still have a delicious fried rice dish!
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Suggestions include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just remember to adjust your cooking time based on how long the veggies take to become tender.
