If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe. It combines perfectly cooked shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies all brought together by a rich blend of soy and sesame oils. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe offers a soulful balance of savory richness and fresh brightness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential to crafting an irresistible shrimp fried rice. Each adds a unique texture or flavor that elevates the dish, making it a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic notes.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, providing juicy, tender seafood goodness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor and seasons the shrimp perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper: Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil: A healthy oil with a high smoke point, ideal for stir-frying.
- ½ small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and crunch to balance the savory elements.
- 2 green scallions, thinly sliced: The white parts bring pungency, and the green parts add freshness at the end.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a classic, mouthwatering aroma.
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger: Provides a subtle zing that brightens up the dish.
- 1 ½ cup frozen peas and carrots: A colorful duo that adds texture and a slight sweetness.
- 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably cold): The carb base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Creates a soft, silky texture that complements the shrimp.
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos: The salty, umami punch that binds everything together.
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: A finishing flourish that delivers a nutty depth and irresistible aroma.
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Begin by tossing your shrimp in kosher salt and white pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This simple seasoning brings out their natural sweetness and primes them to cook up perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Then, add the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking, letting them sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes before flipping. After another 30 seconds, they should turn opaque and just cooked through. Remove and set aside so they don’t overcook while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion, the white parts of your scallions, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry this fragrant medley for about a minute until the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma. This step builds the essential flavor base of the dish.
Step 4: Add Veggies
Add your frozen peas and carrots straight from the freezer. Stir-fry them with the aromatics for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re warmed through but still vibrant and fresh, providing bursts of color and crunch.
Step 5: Scramble the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of your wok, creating space for the eggs. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble until softly set, about a minute. This will add a silky texture and richness throughout the fried rice.
Step 6: Combine Rice and Shrimp
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cold cooked rice, the cooked shrimp, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and toasted sesame oil to your wok. Stir everything thoroughly to coat every grain of rice with that delicious sauce, cooking for an extra couple of minutes to meld the flavors and heat through completely.
Step 7: Finish with Scallions and Serve
Finally, toss in the green parts of the scallions for a burst of fresh color and mild onion flavor. Serve the Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe hot for the most satisfying experience, and get ready for those savory, rich bites no one will forget.
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving presentation by sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a hint of brightness. Toasted sesame seeds also add a delicate crunch and toasted aroma that pairs perfectly with the base flavors.
Side Dishes
Complement the hearty fried rice with light sides like crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness. For a bit more indulgence, steamed dumplings or a simple egg drop soup make wonderful companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your shrimp fried rice in a vibrant pineapple bowl for a tropical touch or wrapped inside lettuce leaves to offer a fresh, customizable finger food experience. You can also top with sliced avocado or a drizzle of chili oil for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover shrimp fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect quick meal for busy days ahead.
Freezing
Although freezing shrimp fried rice is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture. If you must freeze, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent dryness. Stir frequently until heated through to bring back that fresh stir-fry goodness.
FAQs
Can I substitute shrimp with other proteins?
Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even diced pork work beautifully in this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is perfectly cooked.
Is it necessary to use cold rice?
Using cold, day-old rice is highly recommended because it helps prevent clumping and ensures the grains remain separate and fluffy during stir-frying.
What if I don’t have avocado oil?
You can swap avocado oil for any high smoke point oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or light olive oil without compromising flavor or texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari or coconut aminos as your soy sauce alternative to make this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe completely gluten-free.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe as written is mild and accessible for all palates. If you enjoy spice, add a dash of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of chili oil while cooking or serving.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s fast, flavorful, and comforting all at once. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, I promise you’ll find joy in every stir-fried bite. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your weeknight dinners into something truly special!
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Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights. Featuring succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, it’s stir-fried in avocado oil for a light and delicious take on a classic Asian favorite. The use of tamari soy sauce and toasted sesame oil enhances the savory profile, while scrambled eggs add a rich texture to this wholesome dish.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ small onion, diced
- 2 green scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
Rice and Eggs
- 4 cups cooked white rice (preferably cold)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Oils and Sauces
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 3 tablespoons tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with kosher salt and ground white pepper. Toss to coat evenly to ensure the shrimp is well-flavored and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds until the shrimp turns just opaque. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same wok, add diced onion, the white parts of the scallions, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir-fry for about one minute until fragrant to build a flavorful base.
- Add Vegetables: Add frozen peas and carrots directly from the freezer to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until the vegetables are warmed through but still retain a bit of crunch.
- Cook the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok, pour in the beaten eggs on the other side, and scramble until softly set, which should take about one minute. This adds a creamy texture to the dish.
- Combine Rice and Shrimp: Add the cooked white rice, cooked shrimp, tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and toasted sesame oil to the wok. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, cooking for another 2 minutes to ensure everything is evenly heated and well mixed.
- Finish and Serve: Toss in the green parts of the scallions just before serving for a fresh garnish. Serve the shrimp fried rice hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Using cold, day-old rice prevents clumping and yields a better texture.
- You can substitute tamari soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sesame oil to your taste preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
