Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
This Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe) is a delicious and quick dish that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe showcases shrimp’s delightful taste combined with a medley of vegetables and fluffy rice. In just 20 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy evenings.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of shrimp, veggies, and seasonings makes every bite a burst of flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning for a personal touch.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and essential nutrients from vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or serve as leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure great results.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying, allowing even heat distribution for perfectly cooked ingredients.
- Spatula: Helps in flipping and stirring ingredients without breaking them apart.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing fresh ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
Oils
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Vegetables
- ½ small onion (diced)
- 2 green scallions (thinly sliced (white and green parts separated))
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
Eggs and Rice
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- 4 cups cooked white rice
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with kosher salt and ground white pepper. Stir well to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
– Add the shrimp in a single layer.
– Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until they turn pink on one side.
– Flip them over and cook for another 30 seconds until just cooked through.
– Remove the shrimp from the pan to a plate.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
In the same pan, add diced onion, white parts of green onions, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
– Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Veggies
Add frozen peas and carrots directly into the pan (no need to thaw).
– Stir-fry for another 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
Step 5: Cook the Eggs
Move the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
– Pour beaten eggs into the empty side, scrambling them quickly until they are soft but fully cooked.
Step 6: Stir-Fry Rice, Seasoning, and Shrimp
Add cooked rice along with seared shrimp back into the pan.
– Pour in tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos along with toasted sesame oil.
– Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Garnish with Green Onions
Finally, stir in the green parts of green onions before serving. Enjoy your freshly made Shrimp Fried Rice!
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Serving Shrimp Fried Rice is an art that can elevate your meal. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various ingredients and sides, enhancing its flavors and presentation.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing complements the savory flavors of shrimp fried rice.
Add a Side of Spring Rolls
- Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice.
Serve with Soy Sauce and Chili Oil
- Offer soy sauce for additional richness and chili oil for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top for an aromatic touch that enhances both flavor and appearance.
Accompany with Pickled Vegetables
- Tangy pickled vegetables serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich fried rice.
Enjoy with Steamed Dumplings
- Steamed dumplings, whether filled with pork or vegetables, make a hearty addition to your shrimp fried rice dinner.
How to Perfect Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
To achieve the perfect Shrimp Fried Rice, consider these essential tips that will enhance your cooking experience and results.
- Use day-old rice: Leftover rice dries out slightly, making it ideal for stir-frying without becoming mushy.
- Cook on high heat: A hot wok or skillet ensures your ingredients fry quickly, locking in flavors without steaming.
- Prep ingredients ahead: Have all ingredients ready before cooking to streamline the process and avoid overcooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy rice.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different sauces or spices, like sriracha or oyster sauce, for unique variations.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Shrimp Fried Rice stands out as a delicious main dish but is even better when paired with complementary sides. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and a comforting touch to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that balances the richness of fried rice.
- Garlic Noodles: Flavorful garlic noodles are an excellent choice for those craving more carb goodness alongside their shrimp fried rice.
- Asian Slaw: A vibrant slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers freshness and texture.
- Egg Drop Soup: This simple yet tasty soup adds warmth while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked seasonal veggies stir-fried in soy sauce harmonize perfectly with the main dish.
- Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy edamame makes for a fun finger food that guests will love snacking on alongside their meal.
- Fried Tofu Bites: Crispy tofu bites provide protein-packed goodness that pairs nicely with shrimp fried rice’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making shrimp fried rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- seasoning: Not seasoning your shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them tough and rubbery. Cook until they are just opaque to keep them tender.
- Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can be sticky and clump together. Use day-old rice for the best results; it will fry better.
- Ignoring the heat: Cooking on low heat can result in soggy fried rice. Make sure your wok or skillet is hot enough for a good stir-fry.
- Skipping ingredients: Omitting aromatics like garlic and ginger reduces flavor complexity. Always include these essential ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Cool the fried rice completely before freezing.
- Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a skillet, then add the fried rice. Stir over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making shrimp fried rice that you might find helpful.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)?
Yes, using frozen shrimp is perfectly fine! Just thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What kind of rice should I use?
Day-old white rice is ideal because it’s less sticky than freshly cooked rice, which helps achieve that perfect stir-fried texture.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
You can substitute brown rice for white rice or add more vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for added nutrients.
Can I make this shrimp fried rice vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp and replace it with tofu or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe) is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe today for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe) brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese takeout straight to your kitchen in just 20 minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy shrimp are stir-fried with colorful vegetables and fluffy white rice, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture. Customizable to your preferences, this easy recipe allows you to add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings. Enjoy it as a healthy dinner option that’s rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 green scallions (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Avocado oil and toasted sesame oil for cooking
Instructions
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper; set aside.
- Heat avocado oil in a wok over medium-high heat; sear shrimp until pink, then remove.
- Stir-fry onion, garlic, ginger, and white parts of scallions until fragrant.
- Add frozen peas and carrots; cook until warmed through.
- Push veggies aside; scramble eggs in the pan.
- Combine rice and shrimp; stir in tamari soy sauce and sesame oil; cook until heated through.
- Garnish with green parts of scallions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
