Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

In just 20 minutes, you’ll be savoring a delightful bowl of Shrimp Fried Rice that’s bursting with flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave something comforting and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
  • Versatile Flavors: The combination of shrimp with vegetables and rice means you get a bit of everything in every bite.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
  • Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Shrimp Fried Rice are both simple and flavorful, ensuring that each component plays its role. From the plump shrimp to the aromatic ginger, every ingredient adds depth to this dish.

  • Large Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience, these are the stars of the dish.
  • Kosher Salt and White Pepper: These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of shrimp and rice.
  • Avocado Oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking, maintaining the perfect texture of stir-fried ingredients.
  • Onion and Scallions: Offer a sweet and sharp contrast to the savory rice and shrimp.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Minced for a fragrant base, these bring zing and warmth.
  • Frozen Peas and Carrots: No need to thaw, they add color and freshness quickly.
  • Large Eggs: Provide richness and are scrambled to perfection.
  • Cooked White Rice: Preferably day-old for the best texture in fried rice.
  • Tamari Soy Sauce: Use this or coconut aminos for that umami depth.
  • Toasted Sesame Oil: A drizzle that lifts the dish with nutty notes.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Don’t hesitate to put your own twist on this Shrimp Fried Rice. With a few tweaks, you can make it perfect for your palates and dietary needs, adding a unique touch each time you prepare it.

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the shrimp and add tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers for a meat-free option.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to give your fried rice a spicy flair.
  • Brown Rice: Swap white rice with brown rice for a healthier, earthy-tasting dish.

How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, season your shrimp with kosher salt and white pepper—this ensures they are flavorful from the start. Setting them aside allows the seasoning to lightly penetrate, enhancing their taste when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet on medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 1-2 minutes each side. They’re done when they turn opaque and slightly curled, then remove them to a plate.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

In the same skillet that now holds all the flavorful bits left by the shrimp, toss in your onions, the white parts of the green scallions, along with garlic and ginger. Stir-fry them for about a minute until they release their savory aroma, which forms the flavor foundation for your rice.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add the frozen peas and carrots directly into the skillet. Since there’s no need to thaw, they quickly meld with the aromatics. Stir-fry until they’re heated through, brightening up the dish with their color and texture.

Step 5: Cook the Eggs

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, pour the beaten eggs onto the other, and scramble until just set. This method keeps the eggs silky and allows them to integrate seamlessly with the rice.

Step 6: Stir-fry the Rice, Seasoning, and Shrimp

Finally, introduce your cooked rice, along with the seared shrimp, soy sauce, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together so that each grain of rice absorbs the spices and essences of the dish. The final touch is folding in the green parts of the scallions just before serving for a fresh oniony kick.

Pro Tips for Making Shrimp Fried Rice

  • Rice Prep: Use day-old rice for the best texture; it’s less sticky and holds up better during stir-frying.
  • Shrimp Selection: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for a juicier bite—they cook quickly and stay tender.
  • Aromatic Boost: Incorporate fresh garlic and ginger for a vibrant flavor that elevates the whole dish.
  • Heat Management: Keep the wok or skillet hot to ensure quick cooking and maintain the perfect stir-fry texture.

How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your Shrimp Fried Rice with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. A hint of cilantro can also add a refreshing pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed bok choy. If you’re adventurous, try it alongside a bowl of light miso soup for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your fried rice in a pineapple bowl for a tropical vibe or in pretty porcelain bowls for a more traditional feel, accompanied by decorative chopsticks to complete the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Shrimp Fried Rice in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight bags. Simply spread the rice in a thin layer, push out excess air, and seal—good for up to a month.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then lightly sauté in a skillet or microwave, adding a bit of water to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use freshly cooked rice for this recipe?

    Yes, but day-old rice is recommended as it is drier and produces a better fried rice texture. If using fresh rice, try to cool it and spread it out on a baking sheet to remove excess moisture.

  2. What’s the best way to devein shrimp?

    Use a small paring knife or a shrimp deveiner tool to gently cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the vein. Rinse under cold water to finish the preparation.

  3. Can I add other proteins to the Shrimp Fried Rice?

    Absolutely! You can incorporate cooked chicken, pork, or even tofu alongside your shrimp to diversify the protein content and enjoy a more varied meal.

  4. Is it necessary to use a wok?

    No, a large skillet will work perfectly. The key is a wide cooking surface and maintaining high heat to quickly sear the ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an irresistible Shrimp Fried Rice recipe that pairs convenience with unbeatable flavor. I encourage you to dive in and try this dish soon. Let it bring joy to your table and become a new staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 146 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Description

This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice, all cooked in a single skillet in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, it’s customizable and easy to make gluten-free or vegan with simple substitutions.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined

Seasonings and Oils

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

Vegetables

  • 1/2 small onion diced
  • 2 green scallions thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots

Eggs and Rice

  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 4 cups cooked white rice

Sauces and Condiments

  • 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with kosher salt and white pepper. Mix well to coat evenly, then set aside.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds until just opaque and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion, white parts of the scallions, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant and translucent.
  4. Cook vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots directly from the freezer. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
  5. Scramble eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan, then pour in the beaten eggs. Quickly scramble the eggs until just soft and fluffy.
  6. Add rice and seasonings: Add the cooked rice, cooked shrimp, soy sauce or coconut aminos, and toasted sesame oil. Stir well and cook for about 2 minutes until everything is heated through and coated evenly.
  7. Garnish and serve: Turn off heat and stir in the green parts of the scallions. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.

Notes

  • You can use cooked shrimp or even chicken or tofu for variations.
  • Make sure to cook the rice beforehand and ideally use day-old rice for better texture.
  • Adjust soy sauce or coconut aminos to taste for saltiness.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
  • This dish can be easily veganized by omitting eggs or replacing them with tofu scramble.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
  • Calories: 338 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 1354mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: 177mg

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