Name: Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-482361H57M10S
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice); 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil); 1/2 cup onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup carrots, diced (or frozen peas and carrots); 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or fresh); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 large eggs, beaten; 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for added umami); 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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If you’re craving something flavor-packed, comforting, and so easy to whip up, let me introduce you to Shrimp Fried Rice. This dish is the ultimate weeknight hero: it’s quick, delicious, and made with a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. We’re talking tender shrimp, scrambled eggs, and a generous mix of veggies—all wrapped in a savory, slightly smoky sauce. The best part? It’s all cooked in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time for you to savor every bite.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or just craving a simple yet satisfying meal, this Shrimp Fried Rice delivers on all fronts. Plus, you can customize it by adding extra veggies or swapping the shrimp for chicken or tofu. It’s the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience, and I promise, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Fried Rice

Let’s talk about why this dish is going to become your new go-to:

Quick & Easy

This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

One-Pan Wonder

You don’t need a ton of fancy equipment. Just a single skillet or wok, and you’re good to go. It’s all about those big, bold flavors and minimal cleanup!

Flavor Explosion

The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a mouthwatering base that infuses the shrimp and veggies with so much umami. Add a dash of ginger for an extra punch, and you’ve got a perfect harmony of savory and slightly sweet.

Customizable

This recipe is a blank canvas for whatever you’re in the mood for! Want to make it spicier? Toss in some sriracha or chili flakes. Want to pack it with more veggies? Go ahead and throw in extra peas, carrots, or even bell peppers.

Fresh & Healthy

Shrimp is lean protein, and this dish is packed with vegetables, making it a balanced meal that’s satisfying but won’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice:

Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces. Tender, juicy shrimp are the star of the show!

Rice: Day-old rice works best, as it’s a little drier and will fry up perfectly without becoming mushy.
Eggs: Scrambled, for that classic fried rice texture and flavor.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: A quick shortcut for getting in some veggies. You can also use fresh if you prefer.

Green Onions: Chopped, for a fresh, mild onion flavor that adds color and crunch.
Garlic: Minced, for a savory kick.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way to impart that nutty, smoky flavor.

Soy Sauce: For that deep, umami flavor and a bit of saltiness.
Oyster Sauce: Optional, but it adds a delicious, complex flavor to the rice.
Ginger: Freshly grated or ground ginger will add a zingy, aromatic element to the dish.

Oil: For frying—vegetable or canola oil works great.

Instructions

Ready to make the most flavorful fried rice of your life? Here’s how you’ll do it:

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.

Cook the Shrimp: Once the pan is hot, toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

Scramble the Eggs: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies

Cook the Garlic and Ginger: Add a splash of oil to the pan and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add the Veggies: Toss in the frozen peas and carrots, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the Rice: Add the day-old rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice gets coated with the oil and vegetables.
Season: Drizzle in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir to combine and let the rice fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Add the Shrimp and Eggs: Toss the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Add the green onions and stir to combine everything. Let it all heat through, about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve: Spoon your delicious Shrimp Fried Rice onto plates or into bowls, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 160mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin A: 20% of your daily value
Vitamin C: 15% of your daily value
Calcium: 8% of your daily value
Iron: 15% of your daily value

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice

This Shrimp Fried Rice can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a few simple sides:

Pair with a Light Soup

Serve it alongside a bowl of hot and sour soup or egg drop soup for a comforting, Asian-inspired meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

A crunchy cucumber salad or a simple Asian slaw would complement the fried rice beautifully, providing a fresh contrast to the savory flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Top with some cilantro, extra green onions, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Additional Tips

Use Cold Rice: The best fried rice is made with cold rice, preferably day-old, because it fries up better and prevents the dish from being too mushy.
Customize the Protein: You can swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu if you want a different protein. Just be sure to cook it all the way through before adding it back to the rice.

Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, drizzle some sriracha over the fried rice or add red pepper flakes into the mix while frying.
Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply omit the shrimp and eggs and add some extra veggies or tofu for protein.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Fresh shrimp works just as well. Just make sure to peel and devein them before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep everything in advance. Cook the shrimp, scramble the eggs, and chop the veggies ahead of time, and then just fry it all together when you’re ready.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Q4: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A4: Absolutely! Brown rice adds a bit more texture and fiber to the dish. Just make sure the rice is cold before frying to get that perfect texture.

Q5: Can I freeze shrimp fried rice?
A5: Yes! You can freeze fried rice for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q6: Can I use a wok for this recipe?
A6: Yes! A wok is ideal for fried rice because its shape helps cook everything evenly at high heat. If you don’t have one, a large skillet will work just

fine.

Q7: Can I use any other vegetables?
A7: Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in mushrooms, bok choy, broccoli, or any other veggies you love.

Q8: Can I add soy sauce substitutes?
A8: Yes, if you’re avoiding soy, you can use coconut aminos or tamari as a soy sauce alternative.

Q9: How do I get the best fried rice texture?
A9: Using day-old rice that’s been stored in the fridge is key. Fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky, while chilled rice fries up better and stays separate.

Q10: Can I make this dish without eggs?
A10: Yes! If you’re vegan or just not a fan of eggs, you can skip them or substitute with tofu for extra protein.

Conclusion

Shrimp Fried Rice is a game-changer when it comes to quick and flavorful meals. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or packing it for lunch the next day, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

Shrimp Fried Rice