Dive into a bowl of comfort with my Shrimp Fried Rice recipe! This simple yet satisfying dish packs bold flavors and delightful textures that are sure to wow your taste buds. You’ll learn exactly how to cook tender shrimp, scrambled eggs, and crisp veggies all in one pan. Ready to make a savory delight that’s quick and easy? Let’s get started on this tasty journey together!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 cup jasmine rice (cooked and cooled)
– 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
– 3 green onions, finely sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
To make shrimp fried rice, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. Using jasmine rice gives the dish a lovely smell and texture. Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled before you start. This helps avoid sticky rice.
The shrimp adds protein and flavor. You can buy pre-peeled shrimp for ease. The mix of peas, carrots, and corn brings color and nutrients. Green onions add a fresh crunch. Garlic and ginger give a nice kick.
Soy sauce and sesame oil are key for flavor. They make the rice savory and rich. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. If you like, use fresh cilantro to garnish your dish. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Essential Cooking Tools
– Large skillet or wok
– Spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
Having the right tools is important. A large skillet or wok helps cook everything evenly. A spatula will help you stir well. Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons to get the amounts just right.
Nutritional Information
The shrimp fried rice is a balanced meal. Each serving has roughly 350 calories. You also get about 20 grams of protein and 40 grams of carbs. The fats are around 10 grams, mostly from the oil. This dish is filling and tasty, perfect for lunch or dinner.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to make your shrimp fried rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Shrimp
First, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once they are ready, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Scrambling the Eggs
In the same skillet, pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs well until they are fully cooked. Once done, take the eggs out and set them with the shrimp.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in minced garlic, grated ginger, and one cup of mixed vegetables. Sauté them for around 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender and bright.
Combining Ingredients
Next, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cooked and cooled jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir everything well to mix, breaking up any clumps of rice as you go.
Adding Flavor
Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir well to coat the rice evenly. Add the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Mix everything thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
Final Steps
Finally, stir in the sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is hot. Now you have a delicious shrimp fried rice ready to serve. For the full recipe, check out the previous sections.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Rice
Using cooled, cooked rice is key. Freshly cooked rice has too much moisture. This moisture makes the rice sticky. Sticky rice does not fry well. You want dry rice for the best texture. Cook your rice a day before, if possible. Spread it out on a tray to cool. This method helps the rice dry out faster.
Cooking Variations
You can change up the proteins or veggies. If you don’t have shrimp, try chicken or tofu. They both work well in fried rice. For veggies, use bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Mix and match to suit your taste. You can even add nuts for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Think about fun side dishes. A light salad can balance the meal. You might want to serve it with spring rolls. For a great look, use vibrant bowls. Garnish the rice with fresh cilantro and extra green onions. This adds color and freshness. You can also add lime wedges for a zesty kick.
Variations
Vegetarian Shrimp Fried Rice
If you want a meat-free option, try using tofu instead of shrimp. Tofu soaks up flavors well and adds protein. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. This makes your dish colorful and healthy. Just cut the tofu into cubes and sauté it until golden. Mix it in when you add the rice. You’ll love the taste!
Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice
For those who enjoy heat, add chili sauce or jalapeños to your fried rice. Start by mixing in a tablespoon of chili sauce when you add the soy sauce. If you prefer fresh heat, chop a few jalapeños and sauté them with the garlic and ginger. This will give your dish a fiery kick! Adjust the amount to match your spice level.
Fried Rice with Pineapple
Want a sweet twist? Add pineapple! Chop fresh pineapple or use canned chunks. Stir in the pineapple when you combine the rice. The sweetness pairs nicely with the savory flavors. This variation is great for summer or when you crave something different. It brings a tropical vibe to your meal!
These variations keep your shrimp fried rice exciting and allow you to play with flavors. Check out the Full Recipe for the basic steps to make your perfect dish.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your shrimp fried rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down to room temperature first. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. Leftovers can last about three to four days in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, you want to keep the rice fluffy and tasty. Use a skillet over medium heat for the best results. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist. Stir often to heat evenly. You can also use the microwave. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Fried Rice
If you want to save your fried rice for later, freezing is a great option. Let it cool completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and remove as much air as possible. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to keep them firm. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking. This step prevents excess moisture in your fried rice.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make shrimp fried rice gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce. You can also check the labels on other ingredients. Ensure they do not contain gluten. Most frozen mixed vegetables are gluten-free, but always read the package.
What is the best type of rice to use?
The best rice for fried rice is jasmine rice. It has a nice fragrance and a great texture. You can also use long-grain rice or basmati rice. Just make sure the rice is cooked and cooled before you start. This helps to prevent mushiness in your dish.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare shrimp fried rice in advance. Cook the rice and shrimp ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, just stir-fry everything together. This makes for a quick meal on busy days.
This shrimp fried rice recipe combines simple ingredients and easy steps. You learned to cook shrimp, scramble eggs, and sauté vegetables for a tasty dish. We explored variations like vegetarian options and spicy versions. Storing and reheating tips help keep your meal fresh. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite flavors. Make this dish your own and impress your family or guests with your skills. Cook and savor each bite with confidence!
