This easy homemade fried rice is so good, it’ll make you forget about takeout! With fluffy rice, colorful veggies, and a touch of soy sauce, it’s a winner for any meal.
Honestly, it’s like a party in a pan! I love throwing in whatever leftovers I have. It’s simple, quick, and always hits the spot! Plus, who doesn’t love a clean fridge? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is best as it’s dried out a bit, which prevents clumping. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice, then spread it on a baking sheet to cool for a bit before using.
Vegetable Oil: I recommend using vegetable oil for frying, but you can use canola, sunflower, or even peanut oil for extra flavor. Just avoid oils with strong tastes, like olive oil.
Eggs: Eggs add protein and richness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use scrambled tofu or leave them out entirely.
Frozen Peas and Carrots: This mix is super convenient. Feel free to swap in fresh veggies like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli based on what you have on hand.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. If you’re gluten-free, coconut aminos or tamari work great too.
How Can I Make My Fried Rice Extra Fluffy?
The key to fluffy fried rice is using cold, day-old rice. Freshly made rice tends to be sticky and mushy. When you use cold rice, it stays separate while cooking. Here’s a quick format:
- Make sure your rice is chilled before cooking.
- Break up any clumps with your fingers before adding it to the pan.
- Use high heat to allow the rice to fry, rather than steam.
These steps help achieve a delightful texture, just like at your favorite restaurant! Enjoy cooking! 🍚✨
Easy Homemade Fried Rice Better Than Takeout
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old and chilled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty fried rice takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to plate. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or a satisfying lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If your rice is fresh, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool a bit before using it. This helps to keep it from getting mushy!
2. Scramble the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling them until just set. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the thawed peas and carrots mix to the pan. Stir-fry this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender and heated through.
5. Add the Rice:
Introduce the chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps as you go. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes to let the rice get a little toasted and crispy, mixing it well with the veggies.
6. Combine All Ingredients:
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and mix everything through the rice. This adds a lovely texture and flavor!
7. Season Your Dish:
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil to the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
8. Final Touches:
Throw in the sliced green onions and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Give everything one last stir.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your homemade fried rice is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot straight from the pan or as a side dish with your favorite protein. Bon appétit!
This fried rice is not only colorful and delicious but also makes for a great way to use up leftovers and clean out your fridge! Happy cooking!
FAQ about Easy Homemade Fried Rice
Can I Use Freshly Cooked Rice for This Recipe?
While day-old rice is preferable for best results, you can use freshly cooked rice. Just spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before using to prevent it from becoming mushy when frying.
What Can I Substitute for the Peas and Carrots Mix?
Feel free to customize this fried rice with any vegetables you have on hand! Bell peppers, broccoli, corn, or snap peas all work well. Just ensure they are chopped into small, manageable pieces for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, use the microwave or a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help revive the rice’s texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for added protein. You can also explore vegan sauces or use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lighter option!
