A quick and tasty side or main dish you can make with leftover rice and simple ingredients.
introduction
Easy Fried Rice is a simple, tasty meal you can make fast. It uses cooked rice, eggs, veggies, and soy sauce. This recipe is good when you have little time or want to use leftover rice. It pairs well with light proteins — see some ideas like these ground turkey recipes for a quick meal plan.
why make this recipe
- Fast to make in one pan.
- Uses common pantry items.
- Good way to use leftover rice.
- Flexible: add what you like.
how to make Easy Fried Rice
Cook on medium heat. First, soften onions, garlic, and vegetables. Move them to the side and cook the beaten eggs. Add cooked rice and mix well. Season with soy sauce, garlic powder, and sesame oil. Stir and cook a few more minutes so the rice gets hot and the flavors mix. Finish with a little butter for a rich taste.
Ingredients :
1/2 cup Carrots, diced, 2 tbsp Garlic, minced, 1 tsp Garlic powder, 1/2 cup Onions, chopped, 1/2 cup Peas, frozen, 2 Eggs, beaten, 4 tbsp Soy sauce, 2 cups White rice, cooked, 1 tsp Sesame oil, 1 tbsp Vegetable oil, 2 tbsp Butter
Directions :
- Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and peas, cooking until tender.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Season with soy sauce and garlic powder, and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot.
how to serve Easy Fried Rice
Serve hot right from the pan. Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top. Offer extra soy sauce or chili sauce on the side. Pair with a simple salad or a protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
how to store Easy Fried Rice
Cool the rice to room temperature first. Put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 3–4 days. To freeze, use a freezer-safe container and keep up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Easy Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice if you can; it fries better.
- Pre-cut all veggies so cooking is quick.
- Cook eggs first or push veggies aside to make space.
- For more flavor, add a splash of oyster sauce or a pinch of sugar.
- If you like simple baking too, try this easy banana bread recipe for dessert after dinner.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or diced ham.
- Use brown rice for more fiber.
- Swap peas and carrots for corn, bell peppers, or leftover veggies.
- Make it spicy with sriracha or chili flakes.
- Make egg-free by omitting eggs and adding tofu.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh rice?
A: Yes. Let it cool a bit first. Fresh hot rice can be softer, but it still works.
Q: Can I skip the butter or oil?
A: You need some fat to cook and add flavor. Use less oil or a small pat of butter.
Q: How do I keep rice from sticking?
A: Use a hot pan and a little oil. Stir often and break up any clumps before adding to the pan.
Q: Can I add frozen meat?
A: Thaw and cook meat first. Do not add raw frozen meat to the rice.
Conclusion
For another simple fried rice approach and more tips, see this helpful guide: The BEST Easy Fried Rice – The Recipe Critic.
Easy Fried Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and peas, cooking until tender.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Season with soy sauce and garlic powder, and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot.