Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner: Shrimp Fried Rice! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to bring a burst of flavors to your table in just 20 minutes. This easy recipe is all about combining succulent shrimp with veggies and perfectly seasoned rice to create a harmonious meal that’s mouthwatering and utterly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Shrimp Fried Rice can be whipped up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile: It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or make it gluten-free with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Family Favorite: The succulent shrimp and hearty rice appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Shrimp Fried Rice lies in its simple ingredients that deliver such a delightful result. Each component is essential, bringing its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- Large Shrimp (1 pound): Ensure they’re peeled and deveined for a seamless experience.
- Kosher Salt and White Pepper: These provide the foundational seasoning to liven up the shrimp.
- Avocado Oil (3 tablespoons): Ideal for high-heat cooking, which helps to achieve that perfect sear on the shrimp.
- Onion and Scallions: Infuse aromatic savoriness to the base of the fried rice.
- Frozen Peas and Carrots: These bring color and a hint of sweetness, and there’s no need to thaw them!
- Tamari or Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami; easily swap for coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
- Toasted Sesame Oil (2 teaspoons): Provides a toasty, nutty aroma that perfectly complements the rice.
Variations
Don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on this Shrimp Fried Rice! It’s incredibly easy to adapt to suit different palates and dietary needs.
- Vegetarian: Simply omit the shrimp and load up on more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or sliced red chilies for heat-seekers who crave a fiery touch.
- Low-Carb: Substitute the white rice for cauliflower rice to keep it light and keto-friendly.
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice
Step 1: Season and Sear Your Shrimp
In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with kosher salt and white pepper. Heat two tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for just 1-2 minutes on each side until opaque and perfectly cooked through. Set aside these succulent beauties and get ready for the next step!
Step 2: Stir-fry the Aromatics and Veggies
Reduce the wok heat to medium and toss in the diced onion, sliced scallion whites, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until their fragrances are released, making your kitchen smell divine. Next, add the frozen peas and carrots and cook until they’re just heated through and brighten up the pan.
Step 3: Egg-cellent Eggs and Rice
Push the veggies to the side, pour in the beaten eggs, and scramble them until soft and fluffy. Now it’s time to bring it all together—add in the cooked rice, seared shrimp, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry until everything blends harmoniously and the rice is warmed through.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Finally, just before serving, stir in the green parts of the scallions for that fresh burst of color and flavor. Grab your chopsticks or fork and savor the sumptuous delight of this homemade Shrimp Fried Rice!
Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Fried Rice
- Chill the Rice: Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to get mushy and clumps together.
- Optimal Heat: Keep your wok or skillet hot during cooking to achieve that essential, slightly smoky flavor.
- Egg Scramble: Push the veggies aside and scramble the eggs separately to keep them tender and fluffy.
- Shrimp Timing: Cook the shrimp just enough to ensure they’re juicy and tender; overcooking can make them rubbery.
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice
Garnishes
Top your Shrimp Fried Rice with additional sliced scallions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dash of red chili flakes if you enjoy a little extra heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber salad or a light hot-and-sour soup to complement the rich flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Shrimp Fried Rice in bowls or freshly-cleared pineapple halves for a tropical twist. Adding a few lime wedges on the side can also enhance visual appeal and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Shrimp Fried Rice in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s easy to reheat for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Shrimp Fried Rice in airtight freezer bags. Lay them flat to freeze and simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or additional oil to refresh its flavors and avoid drying out the rice.
FAQs
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Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for a heartier option. Just be aware that its nutty flavor and firmer texture might slightly change the dish.
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Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Omit the shrimp and eggs, and add in more vegetables or tofu to boost the protein content while keeping it vegan-friendly.
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What’s the best way to cook the rice?
Cook your rice a day in advance and chill it in the fridge. Cold rice doesn’t clump as easily and holds up better during stir-frying.
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What other veggies can I use?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Fried Rice is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a beloved choice for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather up your ingredients and get ready to discover the savory delight that is Shrimp Fried Rice!
