There’s something so comforting about the sound of rice sizzling in a hot pan, don’t you think? This Egg Fried Rice recipe brings together that familiar warmth we all crave. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, and it’s been a favorite in kitchens everywhere for one simple reason: it’s quick, easy, and downright delicious!
Picture this: fluffy rice, beaten eggs, and a pop of colorful veggies all mingling together in a trusty skillet. It’s like a hug in a bowl, reminiscent of meals shared with family, yet it comes together in just 20 minutes. You only need a few pantry staples for this cozy meal that feels like a homemade takeout treat. Seriously, it’s almost too simple!
I first started making this dish in college when my roommate taught me the ropes. That day, our tiny kitchen was filled with laughter and the smell of savory goodness. The secret, I found, is in the day-old riceit fries up perfectly and keeps everything from getting mushy. With over a decade of cooking and sharing in this cozy style, I can confidently say this recipe will soon be your weeknight go-to!
Yesica Andrews
Egg Fried Rice Recipe Delicious and Easy to Make
This Egg Fried Rice recipe is a quick and easy way to turn leftover rice into a delicious meal. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this easy egg fried rice uses just six simple ingredients to create a flavorful and restaurant style egg fried rice at home. Ideal for beginners looking for a budget friendly and tasty Chinese egg fried rice recipe.
2 cups cooked jasmine rice cold & day-old or sub with any white long grain rice
1 green onion finely chopped
2.5 tablespoon regular soy sauce or light soy sauce avoid dark soy sauce
½ tablespoon sesame oil
4 large eggs beaten
2 tbsp vegetable oil or any neutral oil
Method
Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, letting it get hot enough to start shimmering if using a wok.
Pour in the whisked eggs and quickly scramble them, stirring constantly until they start to form soft curds.
When the eggs are just set but still moist, add the chilled rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula.
Push the rice and eggs to one side of the pan; add the remaining oil in the free space, then stir in the chopped green onions.
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil around the edges of the pan, then mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated and slightly browned.
Remove from heat and serve the egg fried rice immediately while warm.
Notes
Use day-old rice for best texture and avoid dark soy sauce to keep flavors balanced. Leftover rice must be cold to prevent clumping. Serve hot for authentic taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
Simple Ingredients: Requires only 6 pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.
Customizable: Easily tweak the flavors with less or more soy sauce, or add your favorite veggies!
Nostalgic Comfort: Feels like a homemade takeout treat, bringing back those cozy family meals.
Key Ingredients & Tools
This Egg Fried Rice recipe uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand:
Cooked Jasmine Rice: Cold, day-old rice fries up best for that perfect texture.
Eggs: Fluffy and rich, they make this dish feel hearty.
Soy Sauce: Adds that authentic Chinese takeout flavor.
Sesame Oil: Just a touch gives a lovely nutty aroma to the dish.
Green Onion: Freshness and color that brighten up each bite.
Cooking Oil: A neutral oil works wonders for frying.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the Eggs: Pour in the beaten eggs and quickly stir-fry until they start to firm up but are still a little moist.
Add Rice: Toss in your cold, day-old rice, breaking up any clumps.
Mix in Green Onions: Sweep everything to one side of the pan and add a little more oil and the green onions to the empty space. Stir everything together.
Flavor & Serve: Add soy sauce and sesame oil along the edges, mixing until the rice is nicely colored and coated. Serve hot and enjoy!
Troubleshooting Tips
Clumpy Rice: If your rice is clumping together too much, make sure it’s cold and day-old. Fresh rice can become mushy.
Not Enough Flavor: Adjust soy sauce and sesame oil to your taste. You can always add a little more!
Eggs Overcooked: Keep the heat at medium-high and watch closely while cooking the eggs for a tender, fluffy texture.
Possible Tweaks
This recipe is a great base, and you can easily add or substitute ingredients:
Vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and vitamins.
Proteins: Feel free to add leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Spice it Up: A splash of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Serving & Storage Tips
To keep your meal cozy yet practical:
Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips
Perfect as a main dish or a side with your favorite protein.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Reheat in the microwave or a hot pan, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Expert Says
When making egg fried rice, use day-old rice for optimal texture. The grains will be less sticky and will yield a pleasant chewiness. Additionally, cooking the eggs quickly over high heat will enhance their flavor and prevent overcooking, resulting in a delicious dish that perfectly complements the rice.
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The Journey to My Perfect Egg Fried Rice
Crafting this egg fried rice was quite the adventure! After my first couple of tries, which resulted in more of a sticky mess than anything, I learned the importance of cold rice and just the right sizzle. Now, it’s a comforting dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and brings my family together around the table.
FAQs ( Egg Fried Rice )
What are the key ingredients for egg fried rice?
The essential ingredients for this dish include cooked rice, eggs, soy sauce, scallions, and vegetables such as peas or carrots. Fresh garlic and ginger can also enhance the flavor. Using day-old rice is ideal as it helps achieve the perfect texture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! This meal is very versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and stir-fry them briefly before adding the rice.
How do I prevent the rice from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy rice, make sure to use rice that has been cooked and cooled, preferably leaving it refrigerated overnight. This helps it dry out and become firmer. Additionally, avoid adding too much liquid during cooking.
What are the best rice varieties for fried rice?
Long-grain rice varieties like Jasmine or Basmati are excellent choices for this dish because they remain fluffy and separate. Avoid using sticky rice, as it tends to clump together. Day-old rice works best since it’s drier.
Conclusion
This Egg Fried Rice comes together in just 10 minutes, offering that beloved aroma and comforting flavors you crave! You’ll love how it turns outcrispy, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious. A true weeknight winner!
Try adding some leftover chicken or seasonal veggies for an extra punch of flavor. And don’t forget: a trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to sprinkle a bit of green onion on top just before serving. If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight containerthey reheat beautifully!
I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you grow up with something like this? Share your photos or memories, and don’t forget to save or share this recipe with loved ones. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
