There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of rice hitting a hot pan, the aroma wafting through the kitchen. This egg fried rice recipe is a favorite for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. It’s been a go-to comfort dish for years, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why!
Think of this dish like your classic takeout favorite, but made right at home. With just a handful of ingredientsperfectly cooked rice, eggs, and any veggies you have on handyou can whip this up in under 20 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that invites creativity; toss in leftover chicken or frozen peas, and watch it transform into a family feast.
I started making this as a college student in 2008 after a friend taught me the basics. The first time I served it, my roommate couldn’t believe I made it so quickly and called it “restaurant-style.” The trick? Use day-old rice so the grains stay separate. It’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table!
Yesica Andrews
Egg Fried Rice Recipe Delicious and Easy to Make
This Egg Fried Rice recipe is a quick and easy way to turn leftover rice into a delicious meal. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this easy egg fried rice uses just six simple ingredients to create a flavorful and restaurant style egg fried rice at home. Ideal for beginners looking for a budget friendly and tasty Chinese egg fried rice recipe.
2 cups cooked jasmine rice cold & day-old or sub with any white long grain rice
1 green onion finely chopped
2.5 tablespoon regular soy sauce or light soy sauce avoid dark soy sauce
½ tablespoon sesame oil
4 large eggs beaten
2 tbsp vegetable oil or any neutral oil
Method
Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, letting it get hot enough to start shimmering if using a wok.
Pour in the whisked eggs and quickly scramble them, stirring constantly until they start to form soft curds.
When the eggs are just set but still moist, add the chilled rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula.
Push the rice and eggs to one side of the pan; add the remaining oil in the free space, then stir in the chopped green onions.
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil around the edges of the pan, then mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated and slightly browned.
Remove from heat and serve the egg fried rice immediately while warm.
Notes
Use day-old rice for best texture and avoid dark soy sauce to keep flavors balanced. Leftover rice must be cold to prevent clumping. Serve hot for authentic taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This egg fried rice recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting and Nostalgic: With its savory flavor, it’s similar to that cozy takeout meal you love, but made right at home.
Versatile: You can easily adapt it to your taste, whether you stick to just eggs or add in veggies for a veggie egg fried rice variation.
Budget-Friendly: Using leftover rice and eggs keeps this dish affordable while still being satisfying.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Cooked Jasmine Rice: Day-old rice is ideal as it’s less sticky, allowing for those lovely separated grains that make this a restaurant-style egg fried rice.
Eggs: The main protein source that brings richness and fluffiness to the dish.
Green Onion: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
Soy Sauce: The heart of the seasoning, it adds that unmistakable umami flavor.
Sesame Oil & Vegetable Oil: For that authentic fried flavor; the sesame oil gives a nutty aroma that’s hard to beat.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Prep the Eggs: Beat 4 large eggs in a bowl and set aside.
Heat the Pan: In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Cook the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and stir quickly to scramble them until they are just set. They should still be a bit moist.
Add the Rice: Immediately add 2 cups of cold, day-old rice. If any grains are clumped, gently break them apart in the pan.
Mix in the Aromatics: Sweep the rice mixture aside, add a dash of oil, and toss in the finely chopped green onions. Mix everything together.
Finish Up: Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil around the edges of the pan. Toss everything until well combined and the grains turn a lovely brown hue. Serve hot!
Troubleshooting Tips
Rice Too Sticky: Ensure you use day-old rice. Fresh rice tends to clump and lose that delightful texture.
Eggs Overcooked: Remove them from the pan while they’re still slightly undercooked; they’ll continue to firm up with the residual heat.
Flavor Lacking: Remember, the amount of soy sauce can be adjusted to your taste! Start small and add more as needed.
Creative Tweaks and Swaps
Add Veggies: For a veggie egg fried rice, toss in peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
Protein Boost: Leftover chicken or shrimp can easily be mixed in for an extra hearty meal.
Spicy Kick: Feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat!
Serving and Storage Tips
This egg fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container:
Storage Method
Storage Time
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Freezer
1-2 months
To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through. You may want to add a splash of oil or water to help with moisture!
Expert Says
When making egg fried rice, using day-old rice is ideal. As it cools, the starches firm up, preventing the grains from becoming mushy. This technique allows for a delightful texture and ensures each bite is both light and satisfying, enhancing the overall flavor of your egg fried rice.
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Mastering the Art of Egg Fried Rice
This egg fried rice recipe was a true labor of love, taking me countless attempts to finally get it right. I learned the hard way that overcooked rice just won’t cut it, and the satisfying sizzle from the pan when it’s done perfectly is a sound I’ll never forget. Now, it brings comfort and joy with every bite.
FAQs ( Egg Fried Rice )
What are the key ingredients for egg fried rice?
The essential ingredients for this dish include cooked rice, eggs, soy sauce, scallions, and vegetables such as peas or carrots. Fresh garlic and ginger can also enhance the flavor. Using day-old rice is ideal as it helps achieve the perfect texture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! This meal is very versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and stir-fry them briefly before adding the rice.
How do I prevent the rice from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy rice, make sure to use rice that has been cooked and cooled, preferably leaving it refrigerated overnight. This helps it dry out and become firmer. Additionally, avoid adding too much liquid during cooking.
What are the best rice varieties for fried rice?
Long-grain rice varieties like Jasmine or Basmati are excellent choices for this dish because they remain fluffy and separate. Avoid using sticky rice, as it tends to clump together. Day-old rice works best since it’s drier.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this egg fried rice recipe comes together in just 10 minutes! The aroma of sizzling veggies and fluffy eggs is pure comfort, providing a warm hug straight from your kitchen to the table.
Feel free to get creativewhy not add a splash of soy sauce for extra depth or toss in your favorite veggies for a veggie egg fried rice? And if you have leftovers, simply store them in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet for a quick warm-up! A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchenadd a little splash of water to keep it moist.
Did you grow up with a dish like this? I’d love to hear your stories or see your creations! Share or save this recipe for a cozy weeknight meal with your loved ones. Nothing beats the feeling of home-cooked goodness.
