If you are looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings a burst of color and texture to your plate, this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, fluffy rice, and perfectly scrambled eggs all infused with savory and tangy seasonings. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a simple homemade dish, this recipe delivers deliciousness with minimal fuss. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic takeout favorite, made fresh and tailored to your taste right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. Using fresh veggies, well-seasoned shrimp, and perfectly cooked rice, you’ll create a balanced and inviting dish every time.
- ¾ pound shrimp: Choose medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined, for that tender, juicy bite.
- 2 medium-sized carrots: Peeled and finely diced for a subtle sweetness and crunchy texture.
- 1 cup green bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1 cup sweet onion: Finely diced to provide a gentle sweetness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons oil: Olive or avocado oil work best to sauté ingredients and add a delicate richness.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced finely to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 4 large eggs: Whisked and scrambled to contribute fluffy texture and protein.
- 5 cups cooked rice: White or brown rice, cooled beforehand to ensure perfect frying texture without clumping.
- â…“ cup soy sauce or Tamari: For that signature salty umami flavor that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tartness that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (toasted): Brings nutty depth and irresistible aroma.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust as needed to enhance all flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add subtle spice and balance.
- ½ cup frozen peas: Thawed for a sweet pop of freshness and contrast.
- Green onions (optional): Thinly sliced for garnish and a bright, herbal finish.
How to Make Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Veggies to Perfection
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Toss in the bell peppers, onions, and carrots, sautéing for about 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies start becoming tender but still retain their crunch. This step is critical because it builds the foundation of textures and brings a lovely aroma to your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Let It Bloom
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. You want the garlic to soften and release its fragrance without burning it since burnt garlic can turn bitter. This tiny step packs a lot of flavor and gives the dish a warm, irresistible base.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs Separately
Whisk your eggs in a medium bowl, seasoning with about half a teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Push the cooked veggies to one side of the pan or remove them temporarily. Pour in 1 tablespoon of oil into the cleared space and scramble the eggs for 2 to 3 minutes until fully set but still soft. Once done, mix the eggs back with the veggies or set them aside again.
Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp
Add another tablespoon of oil to the empty side of the pan and toss in the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes until they just turn pink and develop a light sear. This quick cooking keeps them tender, juicy, and packed with ocean flavor. Combine shrimp with the veggie and egg mixture, making a colorful medley in your skillet.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Seasonings
Add the cooked rice to your shrimp and veggie mix, breaking up any lumps gently with your spatula. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and about half a teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors evenly.
Step 6: Toss in Peas and Finish Cooking
Four minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix in the thawed peas. They add a lovely sweetness and contrast while staying crisp-tender. For a restaurant-style crispy finish, let the rice sit undisturbed over medium-high heat for a minute or so, scraping the bottom to lift those crunchy golden bits. Repeat until you reach your desired crispiness—this is the magic touch that takes this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe from good to unforgettable.
How to Serve Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions elevates this dish instantly by adding freshness and vibrant green color. You can also consider toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sesame oil for an aromatic burst just before serving.
Side Dishes
This fried rice pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a simple cucumber salad or steamed bok choy. You can also serve it alongside egg rolls or hot and sour soup to turn it into a fully satisfying Asian-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your shrimp fried rice inside carved bell peppers or pineapple halves to impress guests visually. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that adds crunch and freshness with every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover fried rice into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy and delicious meal to reheat for lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe freezes well! Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your shrimp fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to loosen it up while restoring its stir-fried goodness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as using a pan helps revive flavor and texture more effectively.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your fried rice.
What kind of rice is best for this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe?
Day-old cooked rice is the best option because it has dried out slightly, preventing clumps and helping achieve that ideal fried rice texture. White or brown rice both work well, depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and eggs. Add extra vegetables or tofu for protein, and use soy sauce or tamari accordingly. This will still yield a tasty, satisfying fried rice.
Is it necessary to use rice vinegar?
Rice vinegar adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavor, but if you don’t have it, a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can be a decent substitute in a pinch.
How spicy is this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe?
This recipe is mild by nature, focusing on savory and umami flavors. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe in your own kitchen—it’s quick, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors and textures you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or whipping up your first stir-fry, this recipe welcomes all skill levels and guarantees a delicious home-cooked meal. So grab your wok, gather those ingredients, and dive into this wonderful dish that never fails to impress and satisfy.
Print
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a flavorful and quick meal packed with tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. It combines a savory mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to create a delicious dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- ¾ pound shrimp (about 100/200 count per pound)
- 2 medium-sized carrots (peeled and finely diced)
- 1 cup green bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 cup sweet onion (finely diced)
- ½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
- Green onions (optional, for garnish)
Other Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons oil (olive or avocado oil, divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 4 large eggs (whisked)
- 5 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- â…“ cup soy sauce or Tamari
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (toasted)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook veggies: In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced bell peppers, onions, and carrots. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to become tender.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare eggs: Whisk the eggs in a medium-sized bowl. Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet or remove and place on a separate plate to clear space.
- Scramble eggs: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil into the cleared spot and add the whisked eggs along with ½ teaspoon salt and black pepper. Scramble the eggs for 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Combine the eggs with the vegetables, then move the mixture aside or remove from the skillet.
- Cook shrimp: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the cleared space in the pan. Add shrimp and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they are lightly fried and cooked through. Then, combine the shrimp with the eggs and vegetables.
- Add rice and season: Add the cooked rice into the skillet mixture. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add peas: Mix in the thawed peas during the last 4 minutes of cooking, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Finish cooking: For extra crispy fried rice, let the rice sit undisturbed on medium to medium-high heat for about a minute before stirring again. Scrape the bottom of the pan to lift the crispy bits. Repeat this process until the desired crispiness is achieved.
- Serve: Garnish with finely chopped green onions if desired and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use day-old cooked rice for best texture to prevent mushiness.
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variations.
- Adjust soy sauce and salt according to your taste preference.
- To make it gluten-free, use Tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- For added heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
