Best Classic Easy Fried Rice Recipe
Fried rice is a versatile and flavorful dish enjoyed worldwide. It’s a perfect way to use leftover rice and vegetables, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious meal. This easy fried rice recipe is quick to prepare, packed with savory flavors, and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients for Classic Fried Rice
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked jasmine rice (cold) | 3 cups |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Carrots (diced) | 1/2 cup |
| Green peas (frozen) | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Green onions (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Use cold, day-old cooked rice for the best texture.
- Chop all vegetables and have them ready before cooking.
2. Cook the Eggs
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Beat the eggs, pour them into the pan, and scramble until fully cooked.
- Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced carrots and cook until slightly tender.
- Stir in the green peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the Rice
- Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan.
- Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry until heated through.
5. Season the Fried Rice
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
- Mix well to evenly coat the rice with the sauces.
- Add the scrambled eggs back to the pan and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Add sliced green onions for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a side.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice: Cold, leftover rice prevents soggy fried rice.
- High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat gives the rice a slightly crispy texture.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Add proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu for variety.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain the stir-fry effect.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Chicken Fried Rice: Add cooked, diced chicken breast for a protein boost.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Stir-fry peeled shrimp before adding the vegetables.
- Vegetarian Fried Rice: Skip the eggs and add more colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Kimchi Fried Rice: Add chopped kimchi for a spicy, tangy twist.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Fried rice freezes well. Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until hot.
