This Easy Fried Rice is a quick and tasty dish that beats takeout any day! Packed with colorful veggies and a hint of soy sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder.
Seriously, you can whip this up in no time! I often toss in leftover chicken or shrimp to make it even heartier. Quick meals like this are my favorite! 🥡✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Using day-old rice is key for fried rice. It’s drier and prevents the dish from getting mushy. If you have leftover rice, perfect! If not, just spread freshly cooked rice on a tray to cool. You can also use brown rice for a healthier twist.
Oil: I like using sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but vegetable oil works well too. If you want a touch of spice, try chili oil instead!
Eggs: Eggs provide protein and richness. For a vegan option, substitute with tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water to create a scrambly texture.
Peas and Carrots: Frozen mixed veggies are so convenient! Feel free to swap in any other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, depending on what you have on hand.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great pick if you’re watching your salt intake. Coconut aminos can also be used for a soy-free alternative.
How Do You Get the Perfect Fried Rice Texture?
The crucial part of making fried rice is to use cold, day-old rice. This helps prevent clumps and gives your dish that perfect texture. Here’s how to handle it:
- After cooking your rice, let it cool completely. It’s best when chilled in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
- When you’re ready to cook, break up any clumps with your hands or a spatula before adding it to the pan.
- Stir-fry on high heat to get those crispy bits and very little moisture. This adds a nice texture and flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have fried rice that’s just as good as any takeout! Enjoy your meal!
Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 20-25 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
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. Once the oil is hot, add the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked (about 1-2 minutes). Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set them aside for later.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 minutes or until the onions become fragrant and translucent. This will add a lovely flavor to your fried rice!
3. Add Veggies:
Next, add the thawed peas and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry the mixed veggies for another 2 minutes until they are heated through. This gives them a nice crunch and freshness.
4. Stir in the Rice:
Now, it’s time to add the chilled rice. Break up any clumps with your spatula and toss the rice with the veggies. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes, allowing some rice to get slightly toasted for extra flavor.
5. Combine Eggs and Onions:
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Toss in the sliced green onions and mix everything together. This adds a wonderful pop of color and flavor to your dish.
6. Season It Up:
Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle with ground white pepper and salt to your taste. Toss everything together again until the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the fried rice from heat. Plate it up and enjoy your delicious homemade fried rice, served hot. It makes for a perfect meal all on its own or as a side dish!
Enjoy your flavorful, restaurant-style fried rice made right at home!
FAQ for Better Than Takeout Easy Fried Rice
Can I Use Freshly Cooked Rice for This Recipe?
It’s best to use day-old rice that has been chilled in the fridge to prevent it from being mushy. If you must use freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool it quickly, then use it once it’s cooled.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you prefer a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with scrambled tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water to achieve a similar texture. Just make sure to season accordingly!
How Should I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry it in a pan, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.
