Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

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If you have a craving for a dish that’s fast, flavorful, and downright comforting, then this Simple Shrimp Fried Rice is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender, marinated shrimp with fluffy grains of day-old rice, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant seasonings to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to whip up. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a weekend cook, this recipe brings together familiar ingredients in a way that makes everyone at the table smile and ask for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Simple Shrimp Fried Rice plays a vital role—from the succulent shrimp that bring a delicate seafood sweetness, to the mixture of veggies that add freshness and a pop of color, and the seasonings that tie everything together with savory depth. Using simple, readily available items means you spend less time shopping and more time enjoying your meal.

• Shrimp (6.3 oz / 180 g): Peeled and deveined shrimp marinated to boost flavor and keep them juicy.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon plus 1 teaspoon): Enhances flavors throughout the dish without overpowering.
• Cooking wine (1 teaspoon): Shaoxing wine or dry sherry adds a subtle aromatic layer to the shrimp.
• White pepper powder (to taste): Delivers gentle heat and earthiness, an essential in Chinese cooking.
• Corn starch (1/2 teaspoon): Helps tenderize the shrimp and gives them a silky texture.
• Sesame oil (1 teaspoon plus a bit for scrambling eggs): Provides that irresistible nutty aroma that ties the dish together.
• Eggs (3): Lightly scrambled to bring richness and a fluffy texture that coats the rice.
• Cooked white rice (2 cups, day-old): Ideal for fried rice as it’s drier and less sticky, ensuring each grain is distinct.
• Onion (1/4, finely chopped): Adds a natural sweetness and gentle crunch.
• Frozen peas (1/4 cup): Bursts of green that contribute freshness and balance.
• Sliced carrots (a handful): Adds color and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Green onions (3 stalks, finely sliced): Brightens the flavor and adds that classic fried rice finish.
• Dark soy sauce or soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings umami richness and a deep, savory color.
• Black pepper (to taste): Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

How to Make Simple Shrimp Fried Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by tossing the shrimp with salt, cooking wine, white pepper powder, and cornstarch. This marinade not only seasons your shrimp but keeps them tender and juicy when cooked. Stir in the sesame oil at the end for a subtle, fragrant richness that will shine through once the shrimp hit the pan.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

Chopping your onion finely and slicing the carrots ensures that every bite is balanced and texturally pleasing. Frozen peas are a perfect no-fuss addition that add a pop of green and a lightly sweet crunch to your fried rice. Having these ready will keep your cooking workflow smooth and efficient.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat your pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Place the shrimp in the pan without overcrowding to ensure they sear rather than steam, creating a beautiful golden crust. Cook each side for roughly two minutes until they are pink and opaque, then remove them to rest while you prepare the other components.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan, heat sesame oil and gently scramble the eggs just until lightly set. This step infuses your oil with an eggy flavor that will envelope every grain of rice you add later, making the dish irresistible. Remember, soft and fluffy eggs are key here to create that signature fried rice texture.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Next, introduce the carrots and onions to the pan, giving them a quick toss to soften slightly but still keep their bite. Add the frozen peas and continue stir-frying for a couple of minutes until everything is heated through and the veggies retain their vibrant crunch.

Step 6: Combine Rice and Seasonings

Now it’s time for the star—day-old rice. Add it to the pan along with dark soy sauce, salt, white and black pepper. Use a cutting motion with your spatula to separate the rice grains and prevent clumping. Stir-fry for about two minutes to allow the rice to soak up the seasonings evenly. This is where your Simple Shrimp Fried Rice really starts to come together with that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 7: Return Shrimp and Finish

Toss the marinated shrimp back in with the rice, stirring gently for one to two minutes to combine the ingredients and warm the shrimp through. Adding the shrimp at this stage prevents overcooking while ensuring every bite delivers that lovely seafood sweetness.

How to Serve Simple Shrimp Fried Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions not only adds a cheerful burst of color but also a mild, crisp onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully. For a bit of crunch and a touch of heat, consider scattering some toasted sesame seeds or a few red pepper flakes on top.

Side Dishes

Simple Shrimp Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a cucumber salad to balance the warm, savory flavors. Steamed or stir-fried greens, such as bok choy or baby spinach, also make excellent accompaniments, creating a well-rounded and healthy meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve your Simple Shrimp Fried Rice in individual pineapple bowls for a tropical twist. Alternatively, plating it with a fried egg on top enhances the richness while adding an eye-catching element. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil also introduces a fresh, aromatic lift that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Simple Shrimp Fried Rice keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent any flavors from mingling with other foods. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, a quick reheat will bring all those delicious flavors back to life without sacrificing texture.

Freezing

This fried rice can be frozen successfully if you want to meal prep. Portion it into freezer-friendly containers or bags and freeze for up to one month. When it’s time to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results to ensure even reheating without drying out your rice or shrimp.

Reheating

To warm up your Simple Shrimp Fried Rice, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to keep the rice moist. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute heat. Avoid the microwave if you can, as stovetop reheating preserves the rice’s texture and the shrimp’s tenderness much better.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

You can use freshly cooked rice, but it’s best to reduce the cooking water slightly and let the rice cool completely before making fried rice. This prevents the grains from clumping and turning mushy. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and separates easily, giving the classic fried rice texture.

What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp work perfectly here. They cook quickly and retain a nice, tender bite. Avoid overcrowding the pan so the shrimp sear nicely rather than steam for the best flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add other veggies you love, like bell peppers, corn, or snap peas. Just be sure to cut them into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly alongside the rice and shrimp.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this shrimp fried rice?

Yes, you can replace the shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or even chopped mushrooms for a plant-based version. Marinate and cook these substitutions similarly to impart flavor and maintain a good texture.

How do I make my fried rice more flavorful?

Using a combination of dark soy sauce and sesame oil adds depth, while the marinade on the shrimp enhances every bite. Also, gently scrambling the eggs before stir-frying the rice helps infuse the entire dish with rich, eggy flavor. Avoid pressing the rice down while cooking to keep the grains separate and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about a bowl of Simple Shrimp Fried Rice, and it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Quick to prepare yet packed with flavor, it’s a recipe that fits into busy days but always delivers something special. Once you try it, this will surely become your go-to fried rice, ready to brighten up any mealtime with ease and joy.

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