Shrimp fried rice is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish combines succulent shrimp with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and a perfect blend of seasonings. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily adapt to your personal tastes and what you have on hand.
Why We Love This Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
One of the many reasons you will fall in love with this shrimp fried rice recipe is its simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor. The shrimp, marinated in cornstarch, salt, and pepper, gives an irresistible taste that pairs beautifully with the rice and vegetables. This recipe is also incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect meal for busy nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, shrimp fried rice is highly customizable. You can easily swap out shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even more vegetables to suit your dietary needs or preferences. The dish is not just satisfying; it is also visually appealing with vibrant colors from the green onions, carrots, and peas. When plated, it becomes an eye-catching centerpiece that garners attention. Whether you’re serving this dish to family or friends, it’s a classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients for Shrimp Fried Rice
To whip up this delectable shrimp fried rice, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb uncooked shrimp (26-30 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Tbsp light olive oil or canola oil
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
- 5 cups leftover chilled white rice
- 12 oz frozen carrots and peas, thawed
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos, to taste
- 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice
Start by marinating your shrimp. In a medium bowl, mix the shrimp with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Allow it to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the shrimp.
Prepare your cooking surface. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You will know it’s ready when a bead of water sizzles and evaporates upon contact. At this point, swirl in 2 tablespoons of your choice of oil.
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1 minute on each side, or until they turn opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
Next, bring back the skillet to medium heat and add the beaten eggs. Use a spatula to break the eggs as they cook. Once they are no longer runny, remove them to a bowl and set aside.
Wipe down the skillet with a paper towel to remove any residue from the shrimp and eggs. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and toss in the chopped green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, and then incorporate the chilled rice.
Spread the rice evenly over the pan, allowing it to cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes. This step helps the rice to crisp up slightly. After this time, stir and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until you hear sizzling sounds.
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice and stir well to incorporate the flavors. Add the sesame oil and the thawed vegetables. Mix everything thoroughly so that every bite has a little bit of each component.
Finally, return the cooked shrimp and eggs back to the skillet. Stir to combine everything well, cooking until the entire dish is heated through and sizzling. Taste and add more soy sauce if desired.
Your shrimp fried rice is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice
Serving shrimp fried rice can be just as fun as making it. Start by portioning the fried rice onto plates or into bowls. For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish your dish with additional finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds. This not only enhances the look of your meal but also adds a nice crunch.
If you have time, pair your shrimp fried rice with complementary side dishes. A light cucumber salad or spring rolls can make the meal more filling and refreshing. If you’re looking to add some heat, consider serving it with a small dish of chili sauce on the side. This way, your guests can customize their heat level, adding excitement to each bite.
You could also consider presenting shrimp fried rice in a large serving bowl for a family-style meal. Encourage everyone to help themselves, making it a delightful dining experience. The aroma and vibrant colors will surely catch everyone’s attention and make the meal a memorable one!
Expert Tips for Making Shrimp Fried Rice
To elevate your shrimp fried rice, consider these expert tips:
Use day-old rice: If possible, opt for leftover rice that has been stored in the fridge overnight. This gets rid of excess moisture and makes for a fluffier, non-sticky fried rice.
Cook shrimp separately: For the best flavor and texture, cook the shrimp separately and then add them back at the end. This prevents them from becoming overcooked and tough.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking the rice in batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy rice.
Customize your vegetables: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Fresh bell peppers, broccoli, or even zucchini would work wonderfully.
Whisk the eggs: Beating your eggs well before adding them can yield fluffier and lighter scrambled eggs in the dish.
Taste as you go: Taste your dish as you cook and adjust flavors when needed. A little extra soy sauce or sesame oil can enhance the entire flavor profile.
By following these tips, your shrimp fried rice will turn out even more delicious, impressing everyone at the table!
How to Store Shrimp Fried Rice
If you have leftovers, storing shrimp fried rice is simple. Allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 4 days.
When reheating, you can use the microwave or a skillet. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to help steam the rice and prevent it from drying out. Heat just until the dish is warmed through. If you’re using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
It’s best to eat shrimp fried rice soon after it’s made to enjoy its best flavor and texture. However, knowing how to store it properly means you can have delightful leftovers to enjoy on a busy day!
Variation of Shrimp Fried Rice
One great aspect of shrimp fried rice is its versatility. You can put your spin on this dish in several ways:
Protein Swap: Instead of shrimp, try using chicken, beef, or tofu as your primary protein. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure your protein is completely cooked.
Vegetable Focus: Add more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to pack your dish with nutrients and crunch. The sky’s the limit when it comes to vegetable additions.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, mix in some chili paste or freshly chopped chili peppers. You might want to also serve with hot sauce to take it up a notch!
Curry Flavor: For a unique twist, incorporate some curry powder or coconut milk into your fried rice for an exciting flavor variation.
Nutritional Boost: Consider adding leafy greens, such as spinach or kale. They will wilt nicely in the heat, adding a nutritious element without changing the dish too much.
Embrace your creativity with shrimp fried rice and feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Every variation tells a different story and makes your meals more exciting!
FAQ about Shrimp Fried Rice
What is the best rice for making shrimp fried rice?
The best rice for shrimp fried rice is day-old cooked white rice; however, jasmine or basmati rice can also work well. Using leftover rice helps achieve a non-sticky texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating and cooking them for the best results.
How do I make shrimp fried rice without soy sauce?
You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or a low-sodium teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. You can also create a homemade sauce with broth, vinegar, and spices.
Is shrimp fried rice gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by opting for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Just ensure that all the other ingredients and sauces you use are also gluten-free.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Instead of shrimp, replace it with tofu or simply increase the number of vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth or a plant-based sauce for flavor.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb uncooked shrimp (26-30 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Tbsp light olive oil or canola oil
- 4 large eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup green onion finely chopped
- 5 cups leftover chilled white rice
- 12 oz frozen carrots and peas thawed
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos to taste
- 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix shrimp with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Add marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1 minute per side until opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add beaten eggs and scramble until cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Wipe the skillet clean and add remaining oil. Toss in chopped green onions and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add chilled rice, spreading it evenly in the pan. Cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Stir and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil, then add thawed vegetables. Mix well.
- Add cooked shrimp and eggs back to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
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