Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A quick and delicious dish that is perfect for using up leftover rice and packed with flavor.
Egg Fried Rice is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It's a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a delightful meal, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in just 25 minutes
- Versatile – customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins
- A great way to use leftover rice for a delicious meal
Essential Tips for Perfect Egg Fried Rice
To achieve the best texture for your Egg Fried Rice, using day-old rice is ideal. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which can lead to clumping rather than the desired fluffy result. If you don't have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry out for about 30 minutes before using it in this recipe.
Another important tip is to ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. The stir-fry process is quick, and having everything at hand allows you to work efficiently without burning the ingredients. This means chopping your vegetables, beating the eggs, and measuring out your soy sauce ahead of time.
Don’t be afraid to customize your Egg Fried Rice! While this recipe uses a mix of common vegetables, you can easily swap them out for whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even leftover meats make excellent additions, making this dish versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Egg Fried Rice can be served as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to your favorite Asian-inspired meals. Pair it with sweet and sour chicken, teriyaki salmon, or even a simple stir-fry to round out your meal. The savory flavor of the fried rice complements many dishes beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
For a complete meal, consider adding a side of crispy spring rolls or a refreshing cucumber salad. These options add texture and freshness, making your dining table colorful and appealing. You can also serve it with a drizzle of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
If you’re hosting a gathering, Egg Fried Rice makes for an excellent party dish. Prepare a large batch and serve it in a communal bowl for guests to help themselves. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use cold, leftover rice for the best texture.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients and make sure the rice is cold and clumpy.
Cook the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs and pour them into the skillet, scrambling until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
Combine with Rice
Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until heated through.
Add Soy Sauce and Eggs
Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir well. Add the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions, mixing until everything is combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Egg Fried Rice!
This dish can be served on its own or as a side with your favorite Asian dishes.
Nutritional Benefits of Egg Fried Rice
Egg Fried Rice not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. The primary ingredients provide a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, which is vital for brain health.
Mixed vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded option for a quick meal. You can elevate the nutritional value further by including a variety of colorful vegetables, which can enhance both the flavor and the health benefits of your fried rice.
Moreover, this dish can be tailored to meet dietary needs. For instance, using brown rice instead of white can increase fiber content, and opting for low-sodium soy sauce can help in managing salt intake. This flexibility makes Egg Fried Rice a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.
Variations to Try
While the classic Egg Fried Rice is delightful on its own, you can explore various variations to keep things exciting. Consider adding proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu to create a heartier meal. Simply cook the protein first, set it aside, and then add it back into the dish at the end.
Another delicious twist is to incorporate different sauces or flavorings. For example, adding oyster sauce or sesame oil can introduce a new depth of flavor. For a unique twist, try a curry-flavored fried rice by adding curry powder or paste to the mix, resulting in a fragrant and savory dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider mixing in some chopped chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce. This not only adds heat but also brings a vibrant color to the dish, making it visually appealing and exciting for the palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?
It's best to use cold, day-old rice as it helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.
→ What vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or any vegetables you enjoy.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the eggs or replace them with tofu for a vegetarian version.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Egg Fried Rice
A quick and delicious dish that is perfect for using up leftover rice and packed with flavor.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather all the ingredients and make sure the rice is cold and clumpy.
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs and pour them into the skillet, scrambling until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until heated through.
Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir well. Add the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions, mixing until everything is combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Egg Fried Rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g