If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and the comforting warmth of home cooking, you have to try this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe. It combines succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and umami-packed sauces into one irresistible meal. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and satisfying depth. Plus, it’s a great way to transform leftover rice into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is straightforward thanks to a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s incredible flavor and inviting texture, making cooking both fun and rewarding.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Day-old rice is ideal for preventing mushiness and achieving that perfect fried texture.
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed shrimp add a tender, juicy bite that elevates the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Choose a high smoke point oil to get a good sear without burning.
- 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten and scrambled, eggs bring rich silkiness and protein.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: This classic combo provides color, sweetness, and crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses the rice with a fragrant, savory aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Essential for that deep umami flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty, distinctive flavor that finishes the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, seasoning is key to balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by spreading freshly cooked jasmine rice on a baking sheet so it cools quickly, or better yet, use day-old rice straight from the fridge. This crucial step ensures your fried rice won’t turn gummy and absorbs the flavors perfectly as you cook.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a pretty pink and become opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet, then pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently until fully cooked but still moist and tender. Remove the eggs and set them aside with the shrimp to combine later.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Veggies
Next, toss minced garlic into the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds. This quick step unlocks the garlic’s incredible aroma. Then, add the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re heated through and slightly tender, bringing a lovely sweetness and pop of color to the dish.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the shrimp and scrambled eggs to the skillet with your vegetables. Add the cooled jasmine rice, pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir everything thoroughly. This is where the magic happens as all those vibrant ingredients marry in harmony, resulting in rich, layered flavor and perfect seasoning.
Step 6: Final Touches
Add sliced green onions to the skillet, season with salt and pepper as needed, and cook for another minute. This final step introduces fresh crunch and sharpness that perfectly complements the rest of the dish.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Transfer your beautiful shrimp fried rice to a serving plate or bowl, garnish with more green onions if you like, and serve immediately while it’s piping hot. This is comfort food at its finest, and every bite feels like a warm hug.
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions adds vibrant color and a mild bite that brings freshness to every mouthful. If you like a touch of heat, a few flakes of red chili pepper or a drizzle of sriracha can amp things up without stealing the spotlight.
Side Dishes
Serve your shrimp fried rice alongside dishes like crunchy Asian-style slaw, light cucumber salad, or even some steamed dumplings. These sides add textural variety and balance so your meal feels complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp fried rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or pineapple halves, turning a humble dish into an Insta-worthy centerpiece. You can also turn it into lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld option, perfect for casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious meal anytime without extra fuss.
Freezing
To freeze, portion your Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of water or soy sauce, stirring constantly to revive the rice’s fluffy consistency. Alternatively, microwave it covered, stopping every minute to stir, ensuring even warming and preventing drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and texture, you can use other long-grain rice varieties. Just make sure the rice is cooked and cooled so it fries up nicely without becoming mushy.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen shrimp?
Either works well! Fresh shrimp offer the best texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp, once properly thawed, are a convenient and tasty alternative that won’t compromise the dish.
Can I add other vegetables to the fried rice?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, corn, bean sprouts, or chopped broccoli. Customize the dish to your liking while keeping the balance of flavors intact.
Why do you recommend day-old rice?
Day-old rice is drier, which means it won’t stick together or turn mushy during frying. This helps achieve that characteristic fluffy and separate grain texture every good fried rice should have.
How do I make the dish less salty?
Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount called for in the recipe. You can always add a little more at the end after tasting to reach your preferred level of saltiness.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is truly a gem that you’ll keep coming back to whenever you want a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal. It’s approachable for any home cook, yet impressive enough to share with family and friends. So grab your wok, fire up the stove, and enjoy this colorful, flavorful dish that celebrates simple ingredients done extraordinarily well.
