Fried Rice

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8

If you’ve got some leftover rice hanging around, this Fried Rice recipe is your ticket to a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with veggies, protein, and just the right amount of seasoning, it's a dish that’s easy to love and even easier to make.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for using up leftovers.
  • Quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins.
  • Great for meal prep — tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cups cold cooked rice
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
1/2 cup diced cooked chicken or tofu
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients Explained

Vegetable oil is the workhorse here, providing the base for cooking everything evenly. You’ll want to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.

Cold cooked rice is key for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can become mushy. Day-old rice has a chance to firm up, making it perfect for frying.

Eggs add a nice richness and a bit of protein. They also help bind everything together.

Mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers not only bring color but also a sweet crunch that balances the savory elements.

Diced cooked chicken or tofu is your main protein, adding substance and heartiness to the dish.

Garlic gives a robust flavor base, essential for that classic fried rice taste.

Soy sauce and oyster sauce contribute the umami flavors, while sesame oil adds a nutty aroma.

Green onions provide a fresh, sharp finish that complements the richness of the rice.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a wide pan or wok for the best results, as it gives you more surface area for even cooking.
  • If your rice is clumpy, break it apart with your hands before adding it to the pan.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of fish sauce or a pinch of white pepper.

Detailed Instructions

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, pour in the beaten eggs. Stir them gently until they’re fully cooked and scrambled, then scoop them out and set them aside.

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just about 30 seconds until fragrant; don't let it burn! Next, add your mixed vegetables and the diced chicken or tofu. Stir-fry these for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Now, add the cold cooked rice. Break up any clumps with your spatula, mixing everything thoroughly. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring to coat the rice and veggies evenly. Keep everything moving so it doesn't stick.

Finally, fold the scrambled eggs back into the pan along with the sliced green onions. Stir everything until the ingredients are well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot!

Simplified Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked, then remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining vegetable oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or tofu, stir-frying for about 3 minutes.
5. Add the cold cooked rice, breaking up any clumps, and stir well to combine.
6. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring constantly.
7. Fold in the scrambled eggs and green onions, mixing until everything is heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This fried rice is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a side of steamed dumplings or a simple cucumber salad. A fried egg on top is also a fantastic addition for a bit of luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh rice?
It's best to use cold, day-old rice for the right texture. Fresh rice tends to be too moist.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and use tofu or extra vegetables instead. You can also add more eggs for protein.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, fried rice freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing in airtight containers.

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