If you’re looking for a fast, easy, and incredibly tasty dish, this Simple Egg Fried Rice is the perfect solution. Made with basic ingredients, this classic fried rice recipe is packed with flavor and is great for lunch, dinner, or even a side dish. It’s a wonderful way to use leftover rice, and with the addition of eggs, it becomes a satisfying, protein-rich meal in no time. Whether you're cooking for yourself or the whole family, this recipe will quickly become a favorite
Step 1: Prepare the rice
Start by using 2 cups of cooked and cooled rice. Leftover rice works best for this recipe because it’s drier and won’t become mushy when stir-fried. If you're using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool for at least 20 minutes before using.
Step 2: Scramble the eggs
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the 3 large eggs into the pan and lightly scramble them, cooking until just set. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and slightly golden. If using, toss in 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
Step 4: Add the rice
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooled rice to the pan. Stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. The goal is to heat the rice through and get a slight crisp on the grains.
Step 5: Add the soy sauce and sesame oil
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the rice. Stir well to evenly coat the rice with the sauces, which will add rich umami flavors and a hint of nuttiness from the sesame oil.
Step 6: Add the scrambled eggs
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, breaking them into small pieces as you mix them into the rice. Stir everything together for another minute or two, allowing the eggs to blend with the rice and vegetables.
Step 7: Season to taste
Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The soy sauce adds a salty flavor, but you can add more to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Once the fried rice is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and garnish with freshly sliced green onions. Serve hot as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired meals
Bonus Tip:
To make this Simple Egg Fried Rice even heartier, you can add diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. You can also experiment with other vegetables, like bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms, to customize the dish to your liking. If you want a crispier texture, spread the rice out in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring again.
Conclusion:
This Simple Egg Fried Rice is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that you can whip up in minutes. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables, and the scrambled eggs add a satisfying richness to every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side or as the main attraction, this easy fried rice recipe will become your go-to for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal. Enjoy!