Shrimp fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish that combines succulent shrimp with flavorful rice and a mix of vegetables. It’s a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to make, using ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this recipe and create a mouth-watering shrimp fried rice that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably cold)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 4 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Rice: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 2 cups of white rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly. Cold rice works best for fried rice as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Thaw the Vegetables: If using frozen peas and carrots, thaw them by running them under cold water or microwaving them briefly.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Add the thawed peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Step 4: Fry the Rice
- Add the Rice: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cooked, cold rice. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the rice with the vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add Flavors and Shrimp
- Season the Rice: Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauces.
- Re-add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix them into the rice.
Step 6: Cook the Egg
- Create a Well: Push the rice and shrimp mixture to the sides of the skillet, creating a well in the center.
- Scramble the Egg: Pour the whisked eggs into the well. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds, then scramble them with a spatula until they are fully cooked.
- Combine Everything: Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice and shrimp mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Add Green Onions: Stir in the sliced green onions.
- Serve: Transfer the shrimp fried rice to a serving dish and enjoy while hot.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Rice Texture: Using cold, leftover rice is crucial for the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice can become too soft and sticky.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to customize the dish to your liking.
- Soy Sauce: Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste preference. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
- Protein Variations: You can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
Variations
Low-Carb Version
- Rice Substitute: Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a low-carb version. Cook the cauliflower rice for a few minutes less than regular rice to avoid it becoming mushy.
Keto Version
- Rice Substitute: Similar to the low-carb version, use cauliflower rice.
- Soy Sauce Substitute: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a keto-friendly option.
- Omit Peas and Carrots: Replace them with lower-carb vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, shrimp fried rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chili peppers when cooking the garlic.
4. What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works best for fried rice due to its firm texture and lower starch content, which prevents clumping.
Shrimp fried rice is a quick and easy dish that delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or make a low-carb or keto version, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for any meal, shrimp fried rice is a versatile recipe that you can customize to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends, and savor the delicious combination of shrimp, vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice.