Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

ByMia Harper
A plate of homemade shrimp fried rice garnished with green onions and vegetables

Homemade shrimp fried rice is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a versatile meal that highlights the umami of shrimp, the heartiness of rice, and the crunch of colorful vegetables. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or even for impressing guests, this recipe comes together in just a few easy steps, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 2
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 350
  • Protein: 22g per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
  • Fat: 10g per serving
  • Fiber: 3g per serving
  • Sugar: 2g per serving
  • Sodium: 800mg per serving

Why Make This Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

Homemade shrimp fried rice is a quick and delicious way to use leftover rice and vegetables while providing a healthy dose of protein. It’s a complete meal that combines tender shrimp with colorful vegetables, all tossed in savory soy sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home, making it both economical and convenient. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike!

How to Make Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

### Step 1: Heating the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.

### Step 2: Sautéing the Shrimp

Add minced garlic, followed by the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes.

### Step 3: Scrambling the Eggs

Push the cooked shrimp to one side of the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until fully cooked.

### Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Add the cooked rice and mixed vegetables to the pan. Pour the soy sauce over everything and mix until well combined. Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

### Step 5: Serving

Serve the shrimp fried rice hot and enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

Homemade shrimp fried rice is best enjoyed immediately while it’s hot. You can serve it on its own or alongside some sweet and sour sauce or a side of spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to help achieve that perfect moist texture again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

  • Use cold, leftover rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
  • Make sure the shrimp are patted dry for better searing.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve that delicious stir-fried flavor.
  • Feel free to customize your vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Delicious Variations

  • Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice: Add some chili paste or fresh chopped chilies for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with tofu or just double the mixed vegetables.
  • Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice: Enhance sweetness and add tropical flavor by adding pineapple chunks.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.
  • What type of rice is best? Long-grain rice, like Jasmine or Basmati, works well, but any cooked rice will do.
  • Can I add different proteins? Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even scrambled tofu are great alternatives.
  • Is this recipe gluten-free? You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • Can I make fried rice ahead of time? You can prepare it in advance, but it tastes best when freshly made. Just store leftovers properly.

Conclusion

Homemade shrimp fried rice is a fantastic meal filled with flavor and texture that everyone can enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this easy dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re using up leftovers or creating a new family favorite, we encourage you to give this recipe a try. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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