If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish, this Egg Fried Rice Recipe is the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s a classic comfort food that perfectly balances fluffy rice with savory scrambled eggs, crisp veggies, and just the right touch of soy sauce and sesame oil. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or need a delicious side to your favorite Asian-inspired meal, this recipe hits the mark every single time. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make with everyday ingredients that come together in just minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing the texture and flavor of this dish. With a handful of simple pantry staples and a few fresh additions, you’ll have everything you need to whip up mouthwatering egg fried rice that’s both colorful and delicious.
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold): Using cold rice prevents clumping and gives you those perfect, separate grains.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Eggs bring richness and a velvety texture to the rice.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty umami that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma and flavor that’s quintessential in fried rice.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Fresh green onions bring brightness and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic gives the dish its irresistible savory depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
How to Make Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Heat the sesame oil
Start by warming sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This oil is key because it lends a rich, nutty fragrance that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté garlic, peas, and carrots
Add the minced garlic along with the frozen peas and carrots to the hot pan. Let them cook together for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften and the vegetables to become tender yet still retain some snap.
Step 3: Scramble the eggs
Push the sautéed veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs on the vacant side and scramble them gently until fully cooked but still moist. This separation stage ensures your eggs stay fluffy and don’t overcook.
Step 4: Combine rice and soy sauce
Now toss in the cold, cooked rice followed by the soy sauce. Stir everything vigorously to mix the eggs, vegetables, and rice evenly while heating through. The soy sauce adds that lovely umami flavor and a touch of color.
Step 5: Add green onions and season
Last but not least, stir in the fresh sliced green onions. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. The green onions provide a fresh crispness that really rounds out the dish.
Step 6: Serve immediately
Once it’s all combined and steaming hot, plate your egg fried rice right away. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
How to Serve Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or chopped cilantro over the top before serving. Thinly sliced chili peppers can also add a gentle heat for those who like a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
Egg fried rice pairs beautifully with many Asian dishes like sweet and sour chicken, stir-fried vegetables, or crispy spring rolls. It’s also a fantastic side to grilled meats or tofu, making it a very versatile kitchen staple.
Creative Ways to Present
Try shaping your egg fried rice into neat little mounds with a small bowl or mold for an elegant presentation. You can also serve it stuffed inside lettuce wraps for a fun and fresh take that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover egg fried rice keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after chilling, though the texture may soften slightly.
Freezing
While you can freeze egg fried rice, it’s best to do so only if you plan to reheat it thoroughly soon. Freeze in portion-sized containers and use within one month for best taste.
Reheating
Reheat your egg fried rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to restore its texture. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce helps keep it moist. Microwaving works too but can sometimes make the rice a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice for this Egg Fried Rice Recipe?
While fresh rice can work, it’s best to use cold, day-old rice because it has a drier texture that prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
What protein options can I add besides eggs?
Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu for a heartier meal. Just cook the protein separately and toss it in during the final step.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the flavor intact while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Using a hot pan and the right amount of oil helps prevent sticking. Also, using cold, day-old rice is key because it’s less sticky and separates better.
What can I use if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but you’ll miss some of the distinctive toasted flavor that makes this recipe shine.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Fried Rice Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table. It’s easy enough for any day of the week but flavorful enough to impress your family or guests. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your go-to recipe for a quick, satisfying, and absolutely delicious meal.
Print
Egg Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and easy Egg Fried Rice recipe that combines fluffy scrambled eggs, vibrant peas and carrots, and fragrant garlic with cold cooked rice, seasoned perfectly with soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the vegetables and eggs.
- Cook vegetables: Add the minced garlic, peas, and carrots to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and garlic is fragrant.
- Scramble eggs: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble until fully cooked and slightly fluffy.
- Add rice and soy sauce: Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables and eggs, then pour in the soy sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine and heat everything through evenly.
- Finish and season: Stir in the sliced green onions, then season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavor as desired.
- Serve: Serve hot immediately for best flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice!
Notes
- Use cold or day-old rice for the best texture to prevent clumping.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to control the saltiness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins such as diced chicken or shrimp.
- Use a non-stick skillet or wok for easier cooking and cleaning.
- For a vegetarian version, omit eggs or substitute with tofu scramble.
