What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fried rice recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal for busy nights. You’ll love how simple it is to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
- You can use leftover rice and veggies, making it a great way to reduce food waste.
- With its mix of savory soy sauce, tender veggies, and fluffy rice, every bite is a comforting treat.
Recipe
Homemade fried rice is a versatile and quick dish that can be made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and seasonings.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked and cooled white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the cooked rice. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using), and mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Notes:
- Use day-old rice for the best texture, as fresh rice can become mushy.
- Customize with proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added flavor.
Equipment:
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
Asian
Serving:
3-4 servings
Nutrition
The nutritional content of homemade fried rice can vary based on the ingredients used. Here is a general estimate for a standard serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade fried rice with simple protein options, like grilled chicken or scrambled eggs, to make it a complete meal. Adding a side of steamed or stir-fried veggies, such as broccoli or snap peas, brings extra color and crunch to the dish. It’s an easy way to keep things balanced and tasty without much effort.
Protein Pairings
When it comes to making fried rice a complete meal, adding the right protein can turn it from a simple side dish into something hearty and satisfying. I love tossing in diced chicken or shrimp, which cook quickly and soak up all the flavors of the rice. For a vegetarian option, I’ll scramble an egg right into the pan—it’s simple but adds extra richness. Sometimes, I’ll slice up some tofu or throw in leftover pork for a more robust bite. Experimenting with proteins keeps things exciting, and it’s a great way to use whatever I have on hand.
Vegetable Complements
Fried rice isn’t complete without a colorful mix of veggies to brighten it up, and I’ve found that tossing in whatever’s fresh makes it even better. I love adding crisp bell peppers, sweet peas, or crunchy carrots for texture, but don’t shy away from leafy greens like spinach or bok choy—they wilt perfectly into the rice. Mushrooms add an earthy depth, while corn brings a pop of sweetness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll throw in some bean sprouts for a fun crunch. The key? Keep it vibrant and simple, letting the veggies shine without overpowering the dish.
