Classic Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a quick and flavorful dish made with leftover rice, stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a savory sauce. This Classic Fried Rice Recipe is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish. The combination of crispy rice, fresh veggies, and scrambled eggs makes it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite proteins.

The best part about fried rice is that it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a budget-friendly, delicious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Fried Rice Recipe

• Quick & Easy: It takes just 20 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables.
• Budget-Friendly: A great way to use up leftover rice and veggies, reducing food waste.
• Delicious & Flavorful: The combination of crispy rice, veggies, and a savory soy-based sauce makes it incredibly satisfying.

Key Ingredients for Classic Fried Rice

1. Cooked Rice

• Day-old, cold rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy when stir-fried. Jasmine or long-grain white rice works best.

2. Eggs

• Scrambled eggs add richness and protein to the fried rice. They’re cooked separately and then stirred into the rice for a soft texture.

3. Vegetables

• Common veggies for fried rice include peas, carrots, onions, and green onions. You can also add corn, bell peppers, or any leftover vegetables.

4. Soy Sauce

• Soy sauce adds savory umami flavor to the dish. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

5. Sesame Oil

• A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and deepens the flavor of the fried rice.

6. Garlic & Ginger

• Fresh garlic and ginger give the fried rice its aromatic base, enhancing the flavor.

How to Make Classic Fried Rice

This classic fried rice recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Crack 2 large eggs into the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add 1/2 cup diced onions, 1/2 cup diced carrots, and 1/2 cup frozen peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger, and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice

• Add 4 cups of cooked, cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Season the Fried Rice

• Drizzle 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the rice, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Green Onions

• Stir the scrambled eggs and 1/4 cup chopped green onions into the fried rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove the fried rice from the heat and serve hot. Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish to your favorite main course!

Tips for Making the Best Fried Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice

• Cold, leftover rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s firmer and won’t turn mushy when stir-fried. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for 30 minutes before using.

2. Pre-Cook the Eggs Separately

• Cooking the eggs separately ensures they remain fluffy and don’t get overcooked when added to the rice.

3. Don’t Overload the Pan

• To get crispy rice, don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a large batch, cook the rice in two batches to ensure it crisps up properly.

4. Customize with Your Favorite Add-Ins

• Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. You can also toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli.

5. Add the Soy Sauce Gradually

• Start with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, then taste and adjust. Some soy sauces are saltier than others, so it’s better to add it gradually to avoid over-seasoning.

Recipe Variations

1. Chicken Fried Rice

• Add cooked, shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed version of this dish.

2. Shrimp Fried Rice

• Toss in cooked shrimp for a seafood twist. You can sauté the shrimp first and then stir it into the rice.

3. Vegetable Fried Rice

• Add extra veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetable-loaded version.

4. Spicy Fried Rice

• Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili sauce to the soy sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs: Classic Fried Rice

1. Can I Use Freshly Cooked Rice for Fried Rice?

• It’s best to use day-old, cold rice for fried rice, as freshly cooked rice can be too moist and may turn mushy. If you must use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to cool and dry it out.

2. What Can I Serve with Fried Rice?

• Fried rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, including stir-fried vegetables, teriyaki chicken, beef, or shrimp. It can also be served on its own as a main course.

3. How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

4. Can I Freeze Fried Rice?

• Yes! Fried rice freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat it straight from frozen in a skillet or microwave.