Egg Fried Rice Recipe: A Simple Guide to a Delicious Dish
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal? Look no further than egg fried rice! This versatile dish is a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. This recipe provides a simple guide to making restaurant-quality egg fried rice at home.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Cooked Rice: 3 cups (day-old rice works best!) Using day-old rice helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten
- Vegetables: 1 cup (diced onions, peas, carrots, and spring onions are classic choices. Feel free to experiment!)
- Protein (Optional): 1 cup (cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork are popular additions)
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (or to taste)
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Ingredients:
This is key to a smooth cooking process. Dice your vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces. If using leftover protein, make sure it's chopped or shredded. Having everything prepped saves time and stress while cooking.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through but still slightly moist. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir-fry the Vegetables and Protein (if using):
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Add the diced vegetables and protein (if using) and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. Add the Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the pan and break up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Combine and Season:
Add the scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious egg fried rice immediately. Garnish with extra spring onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavour and visual appeal.
Tips and Variations:
- Day-old rice is best: As mentioned earlier, day-old rice is less likely to become mushy when stir-fried.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Get creative with vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli are all great options.
- Add some spice: A dash of chili garlic sauce or sriracha can add a nice kick.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Simply omit the protein and use a vegan substitute for soy sauce if needed.
Why This Recipe Works:
This egg fried rice recipe is successful because it balances simplicity with flavour. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The use of day-old rice and proper stir-frying techniques ensures a perfect texture. Finally, the recipe is adaptable to suit individual tastes and dietary needs.
This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal! Remember to share your creations and tag us! Happy cooking!
