Quick Homestyle Easy Fried Rice Recipe (Print Version)
Whip up a satisfying Easy Fried Rice Recipe at home! This simple, flavorful dish uses leftover rice and pantry staples for a weeknight dinner win.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Asian
Dietary: Contains eggs, can be made vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
3 cups day-old cold rice
02 -
2 large eggs
03 -
2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
→ Flavor Boosters
04 -
3 tbsp soy sauce
05 -
1 tsp sesame oil
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
→ Veggies & Protein
08 -
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
09 -
2 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
→ Finishing Touches
10 -
Pinch of white pepper (optional, for serving)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get everything ready to go. Chop your green onions, mince your garlic and ginger. Whisk those eggs with a tiny pinch of salt and pepper. Seriously, mise en place makes this dish so much smoother. I used to chop as I went, and let me tell you, that's how things burn. Have everything in little bowls, ready for its moment in the pan. It's a game-changer, truly.
02 -
Heat a tablespoon of oil in your largest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the whisked eggs and scramble them until they're just set but still a little soft. Don't overcook them! You want them tender, not rubbery. Once they're done, scoop them out and set them aside. I always try to get them out a little early, because they'll cook a tiny bit more with the residual heat. This is where I almost always get distracted by my cat, so I have to be extra vigilant!
03 -
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the white parts of your green onions, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—oh, that smell! It's pure magic. Then, add your frozen mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they're vibrant and tender-crisp. Don't let them get mushy, we want some texture here!
04 -
Now for the star! Add your day-old cold rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with your spatula. This is crucial for even frying. Pour in the soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together for 3-5 minutes, pressing the rice against the bottom of the pan occasionally to get those lovely slightly crispy bits. This is where the magic happens, where the rice really starts to absorb all those amazing flavors. Sometimes I get a little overzealous and spill some rice, but hey, that's just extra flavor for the floor, right?
05 -
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Toss everything together gently to combine. Make sure those eggs are evenly distributed throughout the rice. This step should be quick, just enough to warm the eggs through. You'll see the colors come together, the rice taking on that beautiful golden-brown hue. It’s looking good!
06 -
Turn off the heat. Drizzle with a tiny bit of sesame oil – remember, a little goes a long way! Sprinkle with the green parts of your green onions. Give it one last gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Sometimes I add a dash of white pepper for a little kick. Serve it up immediately, hot and fresh. It should be fragrant, savory, and have that perfect balance of textures. Enjoy your homemade Easy Fried Rice Recipe!
# Notes:
01 -
Always use day-old, cold rice for the best texture; fresh rice will make it soggy.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheat on the stovetop for best results.
03 -
No mixed veggies? Diced bell peppers or shredded cabbage work great in a pinch.
04 -
Serve with a fried egg on top for an extra comforting meal, seriously, it’s my favorite!
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or wok
02 -
spatula
03 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 Calories
Total Fat: 12g
Total Carbohydrate: 48g
Protein: 10g