Egg Fried Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for an Asian-inspired feast. This recipe combines fluffy scrambled eggs, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice to create a tasty, satisfying dish. Using cold, day-old rice helps keep the grains separate and gives the dish the perfect texture.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice, preferably cold (day-old rice works best)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beaten eggs, scrambling them for 2-3 minutes until just set. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
Add the Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with the back of a spatula. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice is heated through.
Combine All Ingredients:
- Stir in the scrambled eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Garlic and Ginger: Stir in minced garlic and ginger with the vegetables for extra flavor.
Vegetable Variations: Try other veggies such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a different twist.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, add a small amount of oil to a skillet and warm the rice over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
- Yes, but cold, day-old rice helps achieve the best texture. Freshly cooked rice may be stickier.
Can I make Egg Fried Rice without sesame oil?
- Yes, sesame oil adds flavor but can be omitted if you don’t have it.
What’s the best way to prevent the rice from sticking?
- Use cold, day-old rice and stir frequently while cooking to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Egg Fried Rice?
- Yes, Egg Fried Rice can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes, omit the eggs and use tofu or additional vegetables to make it vegan.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a different texture and flavor.
How do I keep the vegetables from becoming mushy?
- Sauté the vegetables over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking for a slightly crisp texture.
Can I add sauces other than soy sauce?
- Yes, oyster sauce or hoisin sauce are tasty alternatives to soy sauce.
What type of oil is best for fried rice?
- Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. Sesame oil is best for flavor rather than cooking.
Can I double this recipe?
- Yes, just make sure to use a large enough skillet or wok to avoid overcrowding, which can make the rice soggy.

Conclusion

Egg Fried Rice is a delicious and convenient meal that can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its savory flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Perfect for using up leftover rice, this recipe is quick to make, budget-friendly, and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try different variations and enjoy this versatile, flavorful dish!