Egg Fried Rice Recipe: A Perfect One-Pan Meal

The Ultimate Egg Fried Rice Recipe: A Perfect One-Pan Meal

Egg fried rice is a classic dish loved for its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a quick main meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Follow our step-by-step guide to create restaurant-quality egg fried rice at home.

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Ingredients for Perfect Egg Fried Rice

Core Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old rice is ideal)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or corn)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Protein: Cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added substance.
• Aromatics: Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish.
• Heat: A dash of chili flakes or Sriracha for spice lovers.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Egg Fried Rice

1. Prepare Your Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
• If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to cool and dry.

2. Cook the Eggs

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

1. Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan.
2. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onions until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender.

4. Stir-Fry the Rice

1. Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
2. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with oil and begins to crisp slightly.

5. Combine and Season

1. Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and mix well with the rice and vegetables.
2. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir thoroughly to coat the rice evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Transfer the egg fried rice to a serving dish.
• Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

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Tips for the Best Egg Fried Rice

1. Use Day-Old Rice

Day-old rice has a firmer texture, which prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If using fresh rice, cool it quickly in the refrigerator.

2. High Heat Is Key

Cooking over high heat ensures the rice gets a slightly crispy texture and locks in the flavors.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Use a large skillet or wok to allow the ingredients to cook evenly and retain their distinct textures.

4. Customize to Your Taste

Experiment with proteins, sauces, and vegetables to create your own version of this classic dish.

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Suggested Variations

1. Chicken Egg Fried Rice

Add diced, cooked chicken breast or thighs to make the dish more filling.

2. Shrimp Egg Fried Rice

Incorporate cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.

3. Vegan Egg Fried Rice

Replace eggs with scrambled tofu and ensure the sauces are vegan-friendly.

4. Spicy Egg Fried Rice

Add chili oil, fresh chili, or Sriracha for an extra kick.