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If you are searching for a budget friendly meal that puts leftover rice to delicious use this easy egg fried rice is a game changer in my kitchen It tastes like Chinese takeout but comes together in just ten minutes and needs only six simple ingredients
I made this for the first time after a grocery run delay and was blown away by how satisfying it was My family now asks for it every single week
Ingredients
- Cooked jasmine rice: Using day old cold rice ensures the grains stay separate and gives the fried rice the perfect texture Choose any long grain white rice if jasmine is not available
- Large eggs: Eggs add protein and a rich fluffy texture to the dish Go for farm fresh eggs if possible
- Soy sauce: Brings the classic savory flavor to fried rice Use regular or light soy sauce for the right color and salt balance Avoid dark soy sauce to keep the dish from turning too dark
- Vegetable oil: Keeps everything from sticking and lightly crisps up the rice Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower works well
- Green onion: Finely chopped green onion adds freshness and flavor Choose vivid green stems without any wilt for best taste
- Sesame oil: Provides depth and a hint of smokiness Look for toasted sesame oil in the Asian section for maximum aroma
Step by Step Instructions
- Heat the Pan or Wok:
- Get your large pan or wok hot over medium heat Add half of the vegetable oil For woks allow the oil to smoke slightly for authentic flavor If using a normal pan just heat until the oil shimmers
- Cook the Eggs:
- Pour in all the beaten eggs as soon as the oil is ready Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs Stir constantly so they set but remain soft and moist This takes about one minute
- Add the Rice:
- Once the eggs have just taken shape and are still glossy add in your cold day old rice If the rice is clumped up use your spatula to gently break apart the grains so everything stays fluffy
- Add Green Onions and More Oil:
- Move the eggs and rice to one side of the pan or wok Pour the remaining oil in the empty space Add the finely chopped green onions right into the oil Give them a quick stir to release their aroma then fold them into the eggs and rice
- Season with Sauces:
- Slowly drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil all around the edges of the pan This ensures the sauces hit the hot surface and develop flavor Toss and stir the rice well so every grain is evenly colored light brown
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from the heat while the rice is still steamy Serve your egg fried rice hot and enjoy immediately It tastes best fresh from the pan
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Storage Tips
If you have leftovers let the rice cool completely before storing Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days To reheat sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice and microwave covered to bring back its original texture Do not freeze as the eggs can turn rubbery
Ingredient Substitutions
While jasmine rice is ideal any long grain white rice works Use brown rice for extra fiber If you are out of green onions try chives or thinly sliced shallots If you need to make this gluten free substitute soy sauce with tamari
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Serving Suggestions
Egg fried rice is so versatile Serve with sautéed greens steamed dumplings or any stir fried protein like chicken shrimp or tofu I love packing this in lunchboxes or enjoying as a late night snack
Cultural Context
Egg fried rice has roots in Chinese home cooking Born out of the need to use up leftover rice it is a staple across Asian kitchens Every family has its own style and this quick recipe keeps the heart of tradition while making things easy for the modern kitchen
Recipe FAQs
- → Why use day-old rice for egg fried rice?
Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which helps prevent clumping and results in separated, fluffy grains when stir-fried.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted, although it adds a nutty flavor and a slightly chewier texture to the final dish.
- → How do I keep the eggs tender in fried rice?
Stir-fry the eggs quickly over medium-high heat and remove from direct heat as soon as they set to keep them soft.
- → What vegetables can I add for more flavor?
Peas, carrots, or bell peppers are excellent additions. Add after eggs to maintain a crisp texture and fresh taste.
- → Is it necessary to use sesame oil?
Sesame oil gives a rich, toasty aroma typical of many Asian dishes, but you can omit or substitute if preferred.