Savory Shrimp Fried Rice

This hearty shrimp fried rice has been my weeknight dinner salvation for years. It delivers all the bold, savory flavors of takeout but comes together in one pan with real ingredients and minimal fuss. The combination of juicy shrimp, fluffy jasmine rice, soft eggs, and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for busy evenings or efficient meal prep.

I first developed this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed something quick yet substantial. My family immediately requested it become part of our regular rotation, and it's been our go to comfort food ever since.

Ingredients

• Day old jasmine rice provides the perfect texture and prevents mushiness. Fresh rice tends to become soggy when stir fried.
• Raw shrimp adds lean protein and cooks quickly. Look for ones that are already peeled and deveined to save time.
• Frozen peas and carrots offer convenience and bright color. No need to thaw them beforehand.
• Green onions provide fresh flavor and attractive garnish. Choose ones with firm stalks and bright color.
• Low sodium soy sauce delivers savory depth without making the dish too salty. Regular soy sauce can be used but reduce the amount.
• Sesame oil creates that authentic Asian flavor profile. A little goes a long way so use it sparingly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Rice Ahead

Cook jasmine rice according to package directions at least 4 hours before or ideally the day before. Spread on a plate and refrigerate uncovered. Cold rice creates separate grains instead of mushy clumps when stir fried.

Season and Cook Shrimp

Combine raw shrimp with garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat until shimmering. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook just 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery. Remove and set aside.

Create Scrambled Eggs

Pour beaten eggs into the same hot pan. Move them constantly with a spatula to create soft small curds. They should be just set but still slightly moist. Transfer to the plate with the shrimp.

Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Add sesame oil to the pan and immediately add minced garlic, stirring constantly to prevent burning. After about 30 seconds when fragrant, add frozen peas and carrots. Cook until heated through and bright in color, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add cold rice to the hot pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Spread it evenly and let it sit undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes to develop a light crust on the bottom. This creates texture contrast and deepens flavor. Stir and repeat once more.

Combine Components

Return the cooked shrimp and eggs to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if using. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute all flavors evenly. Each rice grain should be coated and everything should be well incorporated.

Final Touches

Remove from heat once everything is hot. Drizzle with a small amount of additional sesame oil for aroma. Fold in most of the green onions, reserving some for garnish. Serve immediately in bowls for the best experience.

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The secret to amazing fried rice is patience with the rice itself. I learned after many soggy attempts that using day old rice makes all the difference in the world. The refrigeration process dries the grains slightly, allowing them to separate and crisp rather than clump together. This single technique transformed my homemade fried rice from mediocre to restaurant quality.

Storage Suggestions

This shrimp fried rice maintains its quality remarkably well in the refrigerator. Store portions in airtight containers and they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a small splash of water to restore moisture, then microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or reheat in a skillet. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making leftovers sometimes even better than the original dish.

Easy Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Chicken, beef, or tofu can replace shrimp for different protein options. Any leftover vegetables work beautifully. Try broccoli, bell peppers, corn, or edamame. Brown rice or cauliflower rice can substitute for jasmine rice, though cooking times may vary slightly. For a gluten free version, simply swap regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Serving Suggestions

Serve shrimp fried rice as a complete meal or as part of a larger Asian inspired feast. It pairs wonderfully with simple sides like cucumber salad or miso soup. For a vibrant presentation, serve in bowls with additional garnishes like sliced radishes, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil. Set out small dishes of extra soy sauce, sriracha, and chopped peanuts so everyone can customize their portion to taste.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Why is cold rice important for fried rice?

Cold, day-old rice is essential because it has less moisture and firmer grains. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy when stir-fried and allows each grain to separate and lightly crisp, creating the authentic texture that makes great fried rice.

→ Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

While day-old rice works best, you can use fresh rice in a pinch. Cook it with slightly less water than usual, spread it on a tray to cool completely, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using. This helps remove excess moisture and firm up the grains.

→ How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan immediately and add them back only at the final cooking stage. Shrimp cook very quickly and become tough and rubbery if overcooked.

→ What substitutions work for jasmine rice?

Long-grain white rice, basmati rice, or brown rice can substitute for jasmine rice. Each will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, but all work well. Brown rice will need longer cooking time initially and creates a heartier, nuttier finished dish.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli. For protein, consider adding cubed firm tofu (press it first to remove excess moisture) or edamame beans. The same seasoning and cooking technique will create an equally delicious vegetarian version.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover fried rice?

The best method is stovetop reheating in a non-stick pan with a small amount of oil over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through (about 5-6 minutes). This preserves the texture and prevents sogginess. If using a microwave, cover loosely and heat on medium power with a small splash of water to restore moisture.