Shrimp fried rice is an ideal dish for anyone who enjoys the blend of tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables all in one bowl. With its simple ingredients and fast preparation, shrimp fried rice is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. This guide provides a step-by-step recipe with tips for achieving the best results, so you can enjoy fried rice as good as any takeout. For a twist, you might also enjoy a tangy and delicious sweet and sour chicken recipe, which pairs well with fried rice.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Shrimp Fried Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious and balanced shrimp fried rice:
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450g) fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled, deveined, and patted dry. Medium to large sizes work best.
- Day-old rice: 3 cups of chilled, day-old jasmine or long-grain white rice (break up clumps before cooking).
- Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.
- Soy sauce: 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to taste).
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon (for flavor).
- Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons (vegetable or canola oil for frying).
Instructions for Shrimp Fried Rice
Follow these steps to create a flavorful and satisfying shrimp fried rice:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Shrimp: Peel, devein, and pat the shrimp dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Rice: Use chilled, day-old rice. Break up any clumps with your hands or a fork to ensure even cooking.
- Vegetables: Dice the carrots and chop the green onions. Measure out the peas and corn (if using).
- Eggs: Lightly beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside.
- Sauces and seasonings: Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili paste (if using).
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Scramble the Eggs
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced carrots and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the peas, corn, and green onions, and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any remaining clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through.
- Push the rice to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic, ginger, and chili paste (if using). Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, then mix into the rice.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to evenly coat the rice.
6. Add the Shrimp and Eggs
- Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Gently fold everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce if needed.
7. Serve
- Garnish with extra chopped green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice: This helps prevent sogginess.
- Cook shrimp separately: This keeps the shrimp juicy without overcooking.
- Season carefully: Add soy sauce gradually to avoid an overly salty dish.
- Work with high heat: This can give your rice a hint of wok hei, the smoky flavor of stir-fried dishes.
For more rich, satisfying flavors that pair beautifully with shrimp fried rice, consider serving it with green chile stew for a touch of spice.
Variations to Try
Here are a few fun ways to switch up your shrimp fried rice:
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili paste or Sriracha for a kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute cauliflower rice.
- Extra Protein: Mix in chicken, pork, or tofu for added variety.
FAQs about Shrimp Fried Rice
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to defrost it properly for the best texture. - Why use day-old rice?
Day-old rice is drier and helps avoid a mushy texture. - What vegetables work best?
Peas, carrots, and green onions are common choices, but feel free to experiment!
Shrimp fried rice is a simple yet satisfying dish that you can easily customize to suit your taste. Enjoy exploring different variations and flavors, and don’t hesitate to pair it with complementary dishes like chicken dumpling soup for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
Shrimp fried rice isn’t just a delicious and comforting meal—it’s also a nutritious one! Packed with protein from the shrimp and eggs, fiber from the veggies, and energy-boosting carbs from the rice, this dish is a well-rounded option for any meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this shrimp fried rice is a flavorful, satisfying, and wholesome choice that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite!
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