Shrimp fried rice is one of those dishes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make at home. This version comes together fast, uses pantry staples, and is the perfect way to give day-old rice a second life. It’s savory, lightly sesame-kissed, packed with tender shrimp, and finished with fluffy scrambled egg folded right into the rice—just like your favorite takeout spot, but fresher.
The key here is high heat and a quick cook. Everything moves fast, so once you start, you’re only about 10 minutes away from dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked day-old jasmine rice
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 tbsp chopped green onion, plus more for garnish
- 1 egg
- Avocado oil, for cooking
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a wok or deep skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of avocado oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for about 1 minute per side, just until they’re almost cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add a little more avocado oil if needed, then add the diced onion, carrots, and green onion. Sauté until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add the rice to the pan along with a small drizzle of avocado oil. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and toss until the rice is heated through and lightly toasted.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well so every grain of rice is evenly coated.
- Push the rice mixture slightly to one side of the pan. Add the egg and scramble it directly in the pan, then fold it into the rice until evenly distributed.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together until the shrimp are fully cooked and warmed through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with extra chopped green onion.
Tips for the Best Fried Rice
- Day-old rice is essential—fresh rice is too moist and can turn mushy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; high heat helps develop that classic fried rice flavor.
- Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil at the end.
This shrimp fried rice is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something comforting and satisfying without ordering takeout. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and done in minutes—what more could you want? 🍤🍚
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