Description
This Better Than Takeout Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful home-cooked version of the classic Chinese takeout favorite. Made with day-old rice, scrambled eggs, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings like soy and sesame oil, it’s easy to prepare in just 20 minutes and can be customized with your choice of protein for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp ginger, grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Protein
- Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (quantity adjusted as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: If using leftover rice, break up any clumps to separate the grains. For freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and allow it to cool and dry out slightly to prevent clumping during frying.
- Scramble the Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add Peas and Carrots: Stir in the thawed peas and carrots mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes, mixing well with the onions and garlic.
- Combine the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any remaining clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes so the rice gets evenly coated with oil and heated through.
- Season: Pour in the soy sauce, drizzle the sesame oil, and add the grated ginger if using. Stir thoroughly to coat the rice and vegetables evenly with the sauce and aromatics.
- Add Eggs and Green Onions: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, breaking them up further if needed. Stir in the chopped green onions to add freshness and flavor.
- Final Touches: Season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to combine all ingredients well and heat evenly.
- Serve: Serve the fried rice hot as either a main dish or a side. Optionally, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to increase protein content.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps achieve the perfect texture as it’s dryer and less sticky than freshly cooked rice.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- You can adjust the soy sauce quantity to control the saltiness based on your preference.
- Adding grated ginger is optional but lends a wonderful aromatic note to the dish.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
