Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Diving into the World of Homemade Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and easy meal, this recipe delivers flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction in each bite. This dish, a staple in many Asian cuisines, transforms humble ingredients into a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors.

Why Choose Shrimp Fried Rice?

Shrimp fried rice is:

• Quick - Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a speedy dinner solution.
• Versatile - It’s easily adaptable to include any vegetables or protein you have on hand.
• Delicious - The combination of fried rice with succulent shrimp results in a dish that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dish, gather the following:

• 1 cup of jasmine rice, cooked and cooled
• 8-10 medium shrimps, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• ¹⁄₂ cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions and cilantro for garnish
• A splash of sesame oil (optional, for aroma)

Preparation Steps

Cook the Rice

Begin by preparing your jasmine rice:

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Cook 1 cup of rice with 1 ³⁄₄ cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, covering the pot. Let it cook for about 18 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Once done, spread the rice on a tray to cool completely.

Prepare the Shrimp

While the rice cools, get your shrimp ready:

1. Peel and devein the shrimp, if not already done.
2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

Stir-Fry the Shrimp

In a wok or large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat:

1. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, which should take about 2 minutes per side. Set them aside.

Vegetable Preparation

Now it’s time to stir-fry the vegetables:

1. Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the diced carrot and peas, cooking for a few minutes until tender.

Cook the Eggs

To create a fluffy texture:

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs onto the clear side, stirring gently to scramble. Once cooked, mix with the vegetables.

Add the Rice

Introduce the cooled rice to the pan:

1. Stir the rice with the vegetables and eggs, breaking any clumps to ensure even frying.

Seasoning

Add the flavors:

1. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, and a dash of sesame oil for depth of flavor. Mix well.

Combine Ingredients

Bring it all together:

1. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Garnish and Serve

Finish off with some garnishes:

1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh taste and vibrant color.

Tips for a Perfect Shrimp Fried Rice

• Use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can make the dish mushy; cooled, leftover rice is ideal.
• Keep ingredients ready and chopped before you start cooking. Stir-frying is quick, and preparation will keep the dish from overcooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

🌟 Note: Using a well-seasoned or non-stick wok or frying pan can greatly influence the texture of the fried rice, helping to prevent sticking and to achieve that desirable charred flavor.

In wrapping up this culinary journey, making shrimp fried rice at home is a rewarding experience. This dish showcases the versatility of simple ingredients and offers a canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you’re indulging in this on a quiet night in or delighting guests at a dinner gathering, shrimp fried rice promises satisfaction through its robust flavors and straightforward preparation.

Can I make Shrimp Fried Rice with fresh rice?

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You can, but the texture might not be as optimal. Fresh rice can become too sticky and clumpy. Day-old or well-cooled rice is better for that perfect fried texture.

What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?

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If oyster sauce isn’t available, you can increase the amount of soy sauce or add a pinch of sugar to mimic the sweetness of oyster sauce.

Is Shrimp Fried Rice healthy?

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Yes, it can be healthy if you use minimal oil, include plenty of vegetables, and opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Shrimp is also a good source of protein.