Easy Fried Rice Recipe: A Quick & Delicious Meal
Fried rice is a classic dish loved worldwide for its versatility and ease of preparation. This recipe focuses on simplicity, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch. Let's dive into making this easy fried rice!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be flexible, using what you have on hand. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings.
- 2 cups Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is ideal, as it's drier and less likely to become mushy.
- 1 tablespoon Oil: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil all work well.
- 1 small Onion, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
- 1 cup Vegetables (optional): Peas, carrots, corn, or your favorite mix adds color and nutrients. Frozen vegetables are perfectly fine!
- 2 Eggs: Scrambled or lightly fried, they add protein and richness.
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Adjust to your taste. Use low-sodium if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (optional): Adds a delightful aroma and subtle nutty flavor.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning according to your preference.
- Green Onions (optional): For garnish, adds freshness and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get cooking! Follow these easy steps for perfect fried rice every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop your onion and garlic. If using fresh vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are thawed. Crack your eggs into a bowl.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble them until they're cooked through but still slightly moist. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 4: Add Vegetables (if using)
If using vegetables, add them to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Incorporate the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), scrambled eggs, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir-fry for another minute or two, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious easy fried rice!
Tips for the Best Fried Rice:
- Use day-old rice: This prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- High heat is key: This helps to create that signature fried rice texture.
- Get creative with ingredients: Add leftover meat, tofu, or any vegetables you enjoy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: This is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.
This easy fried rice recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Feel free to customize it to your liking, adding your favorite proteins, vegetables, and sauces. Enjoy!
