Fried rice is a beloved dish worldwide, and for good reason. It’s simple, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. With a handful of ingredients and just a little bit of time, you can whip up a delicious meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout restaurant. This Fried Rice Recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the dinner table.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Fried rice is one of those magical dishes that can please even the pickiest eaters. Its savory flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults. The beauty of fried rice lies in its adaptability; you can customize it with whatever ingredients you have, turning it into a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this fried rice will surely be a hit.

What Goes In

To create this delightful fried rice, you will need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds a rich, creamy flavor.
3 large eggs – Provide protein and a fluffy texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and infusing flavor.
1/2 cup diced yellow onion – Offers sweetness and depth.
1/2 tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves) – Adds aromatic goodness.
1/2 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (1/2 inch piece) – Brings warmth and zest.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots – For color and nutrition.
1/2 cup frozen corn – Adds sweetness and crunch.
2 cups cooked rice (from the fridge, see note 1) – The star of the show.
3/4 cup green onions (thinly sliced) – For a fresh, oniony kick.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Enhances umami flavor.
1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder – Adds savory depth.
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce – For seasoning and color.
1/4 teaspoon white pepper or black pepper – Adds a mild heat.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity.
1 teaspoon sesame oil or toasted sesame oil – Provides a nutty aroma.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, gather the following tools to ensure a smooth cooking process:

Large skillet or wok – Essential for frying the rice evenly.
Spatula – For stirring and flipping ingredients.
Measuring spoons – To accurately measure ingredients.
Cutting board and knife – For chopping vegetables and aromatics.
Bowl – To whisk the eggs.

Mastering Fried Rice Recipe: How-To

Ready to cook? Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect fried rice:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic and ginger, and thinly slice the green onions. This will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, melt the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. In a bowl, whisk the 3 large eggs until well combined. Pour the eggs into the skillet, cooking until just set, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Next, stir in the frozen peas and carrots and frozen corn. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and tender.

Step 5: Incorporate the Rice

Add the 2 cups of cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. This is where the magic happens! Stir everything together, ensuring the rice gets coated with the oil and mixed with the vegetables.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Now it’s time to add flavor. Pour in the oyster sauce, chicken bouillon powder, soy sauce, white or black pepper, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure every grain of rice is seasoned.

Step 7: Reintroduce the Eggs

Finally, add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet along with the thinly sliced green onions. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is heated through and well mixed, remove from heat. Serve your fried rice warm, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Dietary Customizations

This fried rice recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some ideas for customizing it to suit your dietary needs:

Vegetarian: Omit the oyster sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.
Vegan: Replace eggs with scrambled tofu or chickpea flour scramble.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check all sauces for gluten-free options.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

While this fried rice recipe is simple, there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results:

Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy.
Make sure to break up any clumps of rice before frying to ensure even cooking.
Work quickly once you add the rice to keep it from getting too sticky.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in two batches.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which you might not since this dish is so tasty!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

Cooling: Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
Storing: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Rewarming: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help restore moisture.

Common Qs About Fried Rice Recipe

Can I use different vegetables in fried rice?

Absolutely! Fried rice is very forgiving. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine or basmati rice works best. It has a firmer texture and less moisture, which prevents it from becoming mushy.

Can I make fried rice in advance?

Yes, you can prepare fried rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving!

Is fried rice healthy?

Fried rice can be a healthy option if made with plenty of vegetables and lean proteins. You can also control the amount of oil and sodium used.

Once you’ve mastered this Fried Rice Recipe, why not try your hand at these delicious dishes?

Save & Share

If you loved this Fried Rice Recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Tag us on social media and let us know how yours turned out. Happy cooking!