Egg fried rice is one of those magical dishes that can turn a busy day into a comforting feast in no time! I absolutely adore whipping it up for a quick dinner after a long day, and it always hits the spot. It’s so easy to throw together with just a few simple ingredients like rice, eggs, and whatever veggies I have on hand. Plus, the savory aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s cooking is just heavenly! Trust me, once you master this egg fried rice recipe, it’ll become your go-to for any night when you need something fast, tasty, and satisfying.
Ingredients List
Getting the right ingredients is key to making the best egg fried rice! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked rice: Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and gives that perfect texture.
- 2 eggs: These will add a wonderful richness and protein to the dish.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables: I love using a colorful mix of carrots, peas, and corn for that pop of flavor and nutrition.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: This is where the magic happens! Adjust it to your taste, but don’t be shy!
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for stir-frying, and gives a nice sheen to the rice.
- 1 green onion, chopped: Adds a fresh crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Just a pinch to elevate all those wonderful flavors!
How to Prepare Egg Fried Rice
Making egg fried rice is not only quick but also super satisfying! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just about 20 minutes. Trust me, it’s worth every second!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers, but not smoking—this is where the flavor begins!
- Add the veggies: Toss in your cup of mixed vegetables and stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes. You want them vibrant and tender, but still crisp—so keep it moving!
- Scramble the eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, then crack in the 2 eggs. Scramble them gently, letting them cook through for a minute or so. Mix them with the veggies once they’re nice and fluffy.
- Combine the rice: Now, add your 2 cups of cooked rice and pour in the soy sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated—this is where all the flavors meld!
- Season and finish: Stir in the chopped green onion, season with salt and pepper to your taste, and let it cook for another 2 minutes so everything is heated through. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful aroma!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for weeknight dinners!
- Versatile—customize with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
- Deliciously satisfying with that perfect blend of flavors and textures.
- Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have.
- One-pan dish means less cleanup—yay for easy cooking!
Tips for Success
To really nail your egg fried rice, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to share! First, always use day-old rice if you can—fresh rice can get mushy, and we want that delightful texture. If you don’t have leftovers, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool it down before using it.
Another secret? Make sure your pan is hot! This helps to quickly stir-fry the veggies and eggs, giving you that beautiful, non-soggy finish. Don’t overcrowd the pan either; if you’re making a big batch, do it in two rounds.
Lastly, feel free to experiment! Add some sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a flavor boost. Remember, cooking should be fun, so make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to egg fried rice, I love knowing what I’m eating! Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy every tasty bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect egg fried rice? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use leftover rice for egg fried rice?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and prevents clumping. If you only have fresh rice, let it cool completely before using it.
What vegetables can I add?
You can get creative! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even bok choy work wonderfully. Just chop them small so they cook quickly.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, just skip the eggs and add tofu or more vegetables for protein. You won’t miss a beat!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a pan over medium heat for a quick meal!
Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
Definitely! Just cook them in the pan before adding the vegetables and follow the same steps. It’s a great way to make it heartier!
Serving Suggestions
Egg fried rice is super versatile, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside some crispy spring rolls for that perfect crunch or a light and refreshing cucumber salad to balance out the flavors. You can also whip up some stir-fried bok choy or garlic green beans for a delicious veggie side. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, add in some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal. Trust me, these combinations will elevate your egg fried rice experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover egg fried rice is super simple! Just transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also splash a tiny bit of water or soy sauce in the pan to keep it moist while reheating. If you prefer, you can microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Easy peasy!
For more delicious rice recipes, check out this easy air fryer chicken fried rice recipe or this beef fried rice recipe!
Print
Egg Fried Rice: 5 Simple Steps to Comforting Perfection
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Egg fried rice is a quick and tasty dish made with rice, eggs, and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Push vegetables to the side and scramble the eggs in the pan.
- Add cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing everything together.
- Stir in chopped green onion and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, then serve hot.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for better texture.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Adjust soy sauce based on preference for saltiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: egg fried rice, fried rice, easy rice recipes
