Egg Fried Rice Recipe: A Simple and Flavourful Classic.
Egg fried rice is a beloved dish that has earned its place as a staple in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a way to use up leftover rice, or a side dish to complement a larger meal, this egg fried rice recipe is versatile, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
Originating from Chinese cuisine, egg fried rice has traveled far beyond its roots, adapting to various tastes and ingredients in different cultures. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—at its core, it’s just rice, eggs, and a few basic seasonings. Yet, with the right technique and a little creativity, it can become a flavorful and comforting meal that delights the senses.
The key to perfect egg fried rice is in the balance of textures and flavors. The eggs add richness and a delicate, fluffy texture, while the soy sauce provides a savory depth that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. The slight crunch from freshly sautéed onions and carrots, along with the vibrant green of peas and scallions, makes each bite a satisfying experience.
One of the best things about egg fried rice is its adaptability. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins like shrimp or chicken, or even experiment with different seasonings. It’s a dish that welcomes creativity, allowing you to make it as simple or as complex as you like.
Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, egg fried rice is a dish that everyone can enjoy. It’s a perfect way to transform humble ingredients into something delicious, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or casual gatherings. With just a few basic steps, you can bring the taste of this classic dish to your table, delighting your family and friends with every bite.
Ingredients: Egg Fried Rice Recipe
2 cups cooked rice
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
2-3 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions: Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Prepare the Ingredients:
If you haven’t already, cook the rice and let it cool. Day-old rice is ideal as it’s less sticky.
Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat them lightly with a pinch of salt.
Cook the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. Scramble them gently, breaking them into small pieces. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
Fry the Rice:
Increase the heat to medium-high.
Add the cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps, until the rice is heated through.
Season and Combine:
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well to evenly coat the rice.
Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan, along with the chopped green onions.
Drizzle with sesame oil, and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat and serve hot.
Enjoy your egg fried rice! You can also customize this recipe by adding other ingredients like shrimp, chicken, or mushrooms.
FAQs About Egg Fried Rice Recipe
1. Can I use freshly cooked rice for this egg fried rice recipe?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked rice, but it’s recommended to let it cool and dry out a bit to avoid clumping. Day-old rice is ideal because it has a firmer texture and less moisture, making it easier to stir-fry.
2. What type of rice is best for this egg fried rice recipe?
Medium to long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, works best for fried rice. These types of rice have a lower starch content, which helps keep the grains separate and fluffy.
3. Can I make this recipe of egg fried rice without soy sauce?
Yes, you can make egg fried rice without soy sauce. If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can season the rice with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy twist.
4. How can I add more protein to this egg fried rice recipe?
To add more protein, you can include cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even additional eggs. Simply stir-fry the protein separately before adding it to the rice or cook it with the vegetables.
5. What vegetables can I use in egg fried rice?
Common vegetables include peas, carrots, onions, and green onions. You can also add bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or mushrooms. Frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient option as well.
6. Can I make this recipe of egg fried rice in advance?
Yes, you can prepare egg fried rice in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving. Add a splash of water or soy sauce when reheating to keep it moist.
7. Is there a way to make egg fried rice healthier?
To make egg fried rice healthier, use brown rice instead of white rice, add more vegetables, and reduce the amount of oil. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt.
8. Can I freeze egg fried rice?
Yes, egg fried rice can be frozen. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will keep for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in a pan or microwave.
9. What should I do if my fried rice turns out too sticky?
If your fried rice is too sticky, it’s likely due to using rice that is too fresh or overcooked. Next time, try using day-old rice. You can also spread the rice out on a baking sheet to cool and dry it out before frying.
10. How can I prevent my fried rice from becoming greasy?
To prevent greasy fried rice, use a moderate amount of oil and make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the rice. Stir-fry quickly and evenly to avoid the rice soaking up too much oil.
Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients: Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Cooking Instructions: Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Prepare the Ingredients:
- If you haven't already, cook the rice and let it cool. Day-old rice is ideal as it’s less sticky.
- Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat them lightly with a pinch of salt.
Cook the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. Scramble them gently, breaking them into small pieces. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
Fry the Rice:
- Increase the heat to medium-high.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps, until the rice is heated through.
Season and Combine:
- Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well to evenly coat the rice.
- Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan, along with the chopped green onions.
- Drizzle with sesame oil, and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat and serve hot.
