Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
-
3 tablespoons butter, divided
-
2 large eggs, whisked
-
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
-
1 small white onion, diced
-
½ cup frozen peas
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
4 cups cooked and chilled rice (preferably day-old jasmine or long-grain)
-
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
-
1 teaspoon sesame oil
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
Optional: chopped green onions, cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Instructions
-
Prepare the rice
Use rice that’s been cooked and cooled for several hours or overnight. This prevents the grains from clumping and helps achieve the perfect fried texture. -
Scramble the eggs
-
Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
-
Add the whisked eggs, scramble until just set, then remove from the pan and set aside.
-
-
Cook the vegetables
-
Add another tablespoon of butter to the pan.
-
Sauté diced carrots, onion, and peas until tender (about 4–5 minutes).
-
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
-
Add the rice and seasonings
-
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
-
Stir in the cold rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula.
-
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
-
-
Combine everything
-
Add the scrambled eggs back in.
-
Mix everything thoroughly and cook for another minute.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
-
Serve hot
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes & Tips
-
🍚 Rice texture: Day-old rice is best. Fresh rice can be too moist and clump together.
-
🧈 Butter vs. oil: Butter adds rich flavor, but you can substitute vegetable or canola oil for a lighter version.
-
🍤 Protein add-ins: Try adding shrimp, diced chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal.
-
🌶️ Extra flavor: Add a splash of oyster sauce or chili oil for depth.
Servings
Makes about 4 servings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
-
Calories: 350
-
Protein: 10g
-
Carbohydrates: 45g
-
Fat: 14g
-
Fiber: 3g
-
Sodium: 750mg
(Values may vary depending on added ingredients.)
Health Benefits
-
🥕 Vegetable-rich: Provides vitamins A, C, and fiber from carrots and peas.
-
🥚 Protein boost: Eggs add high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
-
🍚 Balanced meal: Contains carbs, proteins, and fats in good proportion.
-
🧄 Garlic benefits: Adds antioxidants and supports immune health.
Q&A
Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice?
A: Yes, but let it cool for at least 30 minutes to reduce moisture and stickiness.
Q: What’s the best soy sauce to use?
A: Light soy sauce for saltiness; dark soy sauce for color and richer flavor.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Absolutely — skip the eggs and butter, use tofu and plant-based oil instead.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.