Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
This Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe) is your go-to for a quick dinner that brings the best of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to please the whole family. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: With fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger, every bite bursts with delicious flavors.
- Customizable: Use any veggies you have on hand or swap in different proteins for variety.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal. Everything cooks in one pan!
- Healthy Option: Packed with shrimp and veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make this shrimp fried rice, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir-frying, allowing ingredients to cook evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for tossing ingredients without damaging them, ensuring everything mixes well.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for quick chopping of vegetables and shrimp preparation.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
For the Stir-Fry
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- ½ small onion (diced)
- 2 green scallions (thinly sliced (white and green parts separated))
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
For the Rice Base
- 3 large eggs (beaten)
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with kosher salt and ground white pepper. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another 30 seconds until they are just cooked through and opaque. Remove them to a plate.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
In the same pan, add diced onion, white parts of the green onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Veggies
Add frozen peas and carrots directly into the pan—there’s no need to thaw them first. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until they are warmed through.
Step 5: Cook the Eggs
Move the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs on the other side. Quickly scramble them until they are soft and pillowy.
Step 6: Stir-Fry the Rice, Seasoning, and Shrimp
Add cooked rice, seared shrimp, tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos, and toasted sesame oil into the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Garnish with Green Onions
Finally, stir in the green parts of the green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp fried rice!
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Serving shrimp fried rice is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with the right sides or garnishes can elevate your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh and zesty flavor that compliments the savory notes of the fried rice.
- Basil: Offers a sweet aroma and an herby kick, making each bite more exciting.
With Sauces
- Sriracha: A spicy sauce that brings heat and depth to the shrimp fried rice.
- Soy Sauce: Drizzling extra soy sauce enhances the umami flavor, perfect for those who love a salty touch.
With Pickled Vegetables
- Pickled Cucumbers: Their crunchiness adds texture and balances the richness of the dish.
- Kimchi: A tangy and spicy option that pairs well with fried rice, providing a vibrant contrast.
As a Bowl Meal
- Top with Avocado: Creamy avocado slices over the rice create a luxurious finish.
- Add Fried Egg: A runny egg on top turns this dish into a hearty bowl meal.
How to Perfect Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
To make your shrimp fried rice truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Day-Old Rice: Using cold, day-old rice prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
- High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat for a quick cook; this helps maintain texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Season Well: Adjust salt or soy sauce to taste as it enhances overall flavor without overpowering.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs or scallions add visual appeal and freshness to your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
Pairing side dishes with shrimp fried rice can make your meal more complete and flavorful. Here are some great options:
- Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that complements the richness of shrimp fried rice perfectly.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies provide a crunchy texture contrast.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances the savory flavors with its crispness.
- Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans offer a simple yet nutritious side.
- Vegetable Dumplings: Soft dumplings add heartiness while embracing Asian flavors beautifully.
- Miso Soup: A warm soup that enhances your meal’s umami without overwhelming other flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and healthy greens to your plate.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles serve as a delightful complement, enhancing your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making shrimp fried rice can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking makes it tough. Cook just until opaque.
- Using cold rice: Freshly cooked rice clumps together. Use day-old rice for better texture or spread hot rice on a tray to cool before frying.
- Ignoring the heat: Cooking at too low a temperature prevents proper stir-frying. Ensure your pan is hot enough for that perfect sear.
- Skipping the seasoning: A bland dish lacks flavor. Don’t forget to season each component, especially the shrimp and veggies.
- Not prepping ingredients first: Cooking fried rice requires quick movements. Having all ingredients prepped ensures smooth cooking without delays.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
- Best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, cover, and heat in 1-minute increments until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan, add the rice, and stir-fry until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making shrimp fried rice.
What is the best type of shrimp for Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)?
Fresh or frozen large shrimp works best. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber but may require longer cooking time if not pre-cooked.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using less oil and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for gluten-free options or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative while maintaining great flavor.
Can I add other proteins?
Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or tofu work wonderfully as substitutes or additions to this shrimp fried rice recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe) is not only quick to prepare but also offers endless customization options. You can adjust veggies based on your preferences or swap out proteins as desired. It’s a delightful meal that captures the essence of comfort food—perfect for any night of the week!
Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the flavors of takeout with this Shrimp Fried Rice (Easy 20-Min Recipe), a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. In just 20 minutes, you can create a delightful meal that is both nutritious and customizable to suit your taste. Packed with succulent shrimp, vibrant veggies, and aromatic spices, this one-pan wonder makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- Avocado oil for cooking
Instructions
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large wok or skillet; sear shrimp until opaque, then set aside.
- Stir-fry onions, garlic, ginger, peas, and carrots until fragrant.
- Scramble eggs in the pan, then mix in the cooked rice.
- Add seared shrimp and sauces; stir-fry until heated through.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
