Fried Rice
This easy fried rice is savory, colorful, and perfect for turning leftover rice into a fast homemade meal. It’s customizable, satisfying, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients
For the fried rice:
- 3 cups cooked chilled rice
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil plus 1 tablespoon more if needed
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup diced zucchini or bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 scallions sliced
- Salt to taste
Optional add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked chicken shrimp, or tofu
- 1/4 cup corn
- 1 tablespoon butter for a richer finish
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar for a little brightness
Instructions
Prepare the rice:
- Break up any clumps with your fingers or a spoon so the grains separate easily. Cold, dry rice works best because it fries instead of steaming.
- Scramble the eggs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and cook just until set, then transfer them to a plate.
- Cook the aromatics and vegetables:
- Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir in the onion and cook for 2 minutes, then add the garlic, peas and carrots, and zucchini or bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add the rice:
- Increase the heat slightly and add the rice to the pan. Spread it out so it has a chance to toast a little before stirring.
- Season and finish:
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then add the pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Fold the eggs back in, taste, and adjust with salt if needed.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle the scallions over the top and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Add cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a fuller meal.
If you want extra flavor, let the rice sit undisturbed in the pan for 30 seconds before stirring to create lightly crisp edges.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!