Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that is quick to whip up but packs a vibrant punch of flavors and textures, this Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is going to become your go-to weeknight miracle. Combining tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and fluffy rice tossed together with savory soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil, it’s an irresistible harmony of tastes and colors that feels fresh and comforting all at once. Whether you have leftover rice or fresh ingredients, this recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe plays a vital role, from the sweet crunch of fresh vegetables to the smoky aroma of sesame oil. These essentials come together to balance taste, texture, and color, making your meal as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.

• Shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined shrimp provide tender, protein-packed bites that cook quickly for perfect texture.
• Cooked Rice (3 cups): Day-old rice is best because it’s drier and prevents your fried rice from turning mushy.
• Diced Carrots (1 cup): Adds sweet crunch and vibrant orange color for freshness in every bite.
• Peas (1 cup): These little green gems bring natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Diced Bell Peppers (1 cup): Any color works; they add crispness and brighten the dish visually.
• Eggs (2 large): Beaten and scrambled for richness and a silky texture that ties the dish together.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons): Essential for that classic umami punch without overpowering saltiness.
• Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Stirred in at the end, it lends a nutty aroma that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
• Green Onions (1 handful): Freshly chopped for a bright, mild onion flavor and color contrast.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced and sautéed to add depth and warmth.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to taste that round out all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

First things first, get everything ready to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Peel and devein your shrimp if needed, ensuring they’re clean and ready to shine. Cook your rice ahead of time and let it cool—day-old rice is perfect for that fluffy, separate grain texture. Dice your carrots and bell peppers into small pieces for even cooking, and mince the garlic finely for maximum flavor release.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Add Sesame Oil

Warm up your wok or a large non-stick skillet on medium-high heat until hot. Add the sesame oil so it shimmers slightly, signaling that it’s ready to infuse your fried rice with that unmistakable nutty aroma.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Quickly add your minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step unlocks the essential base flavor that enhances every other ingredient in the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp into the pan and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or they’ll become tough. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep their texture perfect.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender but still retain a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft rice and shrimp.

Step 6: Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour in your beaten eggs. Let them cook gently until just set, then mix them with the vegetables, creating a lovely, fluffy egg texture dispersed throughout the dish.

Step 7: Add the Rice

Now, add your cooled cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes so the rice warms through evenly and picks up all the delicious flavors.

Step 8: Season with Soy Sauce, Salt, and Pepper

Pour the low-sodium soy sauce over your rice mixture, stirring well to coat every grain with that savory goodness. Then taste and adjust with salt and pepper to enhance the dish naturally without overwhelming it.

Step 9: Return Shrimp to the Pan

Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the rice and vegetable mix, tossing for another 2 minutes to allow all the flavors to marry beautifully while heating the shrimp through.

Step 10: Finish and Garnish

Remove your pan from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions. They add a crisp bite and bursts of bright green that lift the dish both in flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of chopped green onions as suggested brings freshness and a hint of sharpness that complements the savory shrimp fried rice perfectly. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or add a drizzle of chili oil if you want to add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

This Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides such as a cucumber salad or steamed bok choy. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside egg rolls or a light miso soup to round out a vibrant Asian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shrimp fried rice in individual pineapple bowls for a tropical touch. You can also use a ring mold to plate the rice neatly, topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a sprig of cilantro for an elegant dinner party presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the shrimp fried rice in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for about 1 to 2 months. When freezing, consider leaving out green onions or fresh garnishes, adding those fresh upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir frequently until warmed through, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Adding a few drops of sesame oil during reheating helps revive those delicious flavors.

FAQs

Can I use fresh shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh shrimp will work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to peel and devein them before cooking. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely for the best texture.

What if I don’t have day-old rice?

No worries! If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out a bit before using. This helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.

Can I substitute the shrimp with other proteins?

Definitely! Chicken, tofu, or even leftover cooked meats make great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your protein is cooked perfectly.

Is sesame oil necessary for the flavor?

While sesame oil isn’t mandatory, it lends a distinctive nutty aroma that elevates the dish. If you don’t have any, you can omit it or add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for flavor.

How spicy is this Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe?

This recipe is mild as is, making it family-friendly. Feel free to add chili flakes, sriracha, or diced fresh chilis if you want to kick up the heat.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that feels both nourishing and exciting every time you make it. It’s flexible, quick, and packed with vibrant ingredients that turn simple pantry staples into a memorable meal. Give it a try soon—I promise it will become a beloved favorite that you’re eager to share with friends and family.

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