Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is a beloved dish that combines savory, perfectly cooked shrimp with fluffy rice and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful sauce. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that feels indulgent but can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, shrimp fried rice delivers on taste and convenience. The balance of textures—succulent shrimp, tender rice, and crisp veggies—makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Shrimp fried rice stands out because of its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. It’s a one-pan wonder that uses simple ingredients yet yields a restaurant-quality dish. The shrimp adds a delicate seafood sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of soy sauce and sesame oil. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can swap veggies, adjust seasoning, or even turn it into a vegetarian version easily. This recipe also makes great use of leftover rice, making it a practical and delicious option to reduce food waste.

What sets this particular recipe apart is its focus on maximizing flavor while keeping the process straightforward. The shrimp is cooked just right to stay tender, and the rice gets that perfect slightly crispy texture from frying. It’s a great introduction to making fried rice at home for anyone who might be intimidated by the technique. With clear instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be making shrimp fried rice like a pro in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
• 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or any neutral oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (check for permissible ingredients or substitute with mushroom sauce)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• Optional: red chili flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick

How To Make Shrimp Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are ready to go. Peel and devein the shrimp if not done already. Have your garlic minced, onion chopped, and peas and carrots thawed. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside. Using day-old chilled rice helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions become translucent. Add the peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes until warmed through.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Let the eggs cook undisturbed for a few seconds before scrambling them gently. Once cooked, mix the eggs with the vegetables.

Step 5: Add Rice and Sauces

Add the chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir everything together to combine. Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster (or mushroom) sauce, and sesame oil evenly over the rice. Toss well so every grain is coated with flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp and Green Onions

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Stir gently to mix without breaking the shrimp. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and add chili flakes if using.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your shrimp fried rice hot and fresh from the pan. It pairs beautifully with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Using chilled, day-old rice helps achieve that perfect texture.
• High heat cooking: Cook on medium-high to high heat for quick sautéing which helps keep ingredients crisp and flavorful.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed to avoid steaming them.
• Customize your sauces: Adjust soy sauce and oyster/mushroom sauce quantities to match your salt preference and flavor intensity.
• Prep everything before starting: Fried rice cooks fast, so have all ingredients ready to go to avoid overcooking.
• Add veggies last: To keep vegetables crisp, add them towards the end of cooking and avoid over-stirring.
• Use a wok or large skillet: This ensures even heat distribution and space to toss ingredients effectively.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetable-packed: Add bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
• Spicy version: Incorporate fresh chili, chili garlic sauce, or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Protein swaps: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast, tofu, or beef strips according to preference.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Herbaceous twist: Add fresh cilantro or basil for a fresh herb flavor.
• Nutty flavor: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for crunch.
• Rice alternatives: Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm it evenly, adding a splash of water or oil if it feels dry. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp fried rice for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

While you can use freshly cooked rice, it tends to be softer and more moist, which can make your fried rice clump together and become mushy. For the best texture, use rice that has been cooked and chilled for at least a few hours or overnight.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you prefer a vegetarian or allergy-friendly alternative, mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce can be used in place of oyster sauce. Both provide a similar umami flavor that complements the dish well.

Is it necessary to peel and devein shrimp?

Peeling and deveining shrimp is recommended for better texture and taste. It also makes eating the dish more pleasant. Most stores sell shrimp that are already peeled and deveined for convenience.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can add fresh chopped chili, chili flakes, or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the dish while cooking or as a garnish to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Shrimp fried rice is a versatile, flavorful dish that brings the best of quick cooking and balanced ingredients to your table. With its juicy shrimp, bright vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings and can easily become a family favorite. By following this recipe and the expert tips provided, you’ll master the art of homemade shrimp fried rice that rivals any takeout option. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this dish is sure to delight every time. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal made right in your own kitchen!