Shrimp Fried Rice

An easy shrimp fried rice recipe is a must to have on hand. This dish comes together in only 30 minutes with everyday ingredients, it’s time to kiss takeout goodbye!

Why this recipe works

Shrimp fried rice is quick and easy to make at home with simple ingredients. Plump shrimp, basmati rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, plus eggs, onions, garlic, peas, and carrots make this dish super flavorful in only 30 minutes total.

Once you get the basics of making fried rice down you can easily swap out the protein and stick to only egg, or opt for chicken or pork fried rice instead. On top of that, there’s always room for customization when it comes to your veggie additions. Let’s get started.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

RICE – We prefer basmati or jasmine rice, but you can also use white or brown rice.

SHRIMP – You’ll need 10 ounces of medium-sized raw shrimp that have been peeled, deveined, and have had the tails removed. You can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first. To thaw frozen shrimp quickly, place them in a sealed ziptop bag and submerge them in a bowl of cold water (do not use warm or hot water). The shrimp should thaw in around 25 minutes. Precooked shrimp will also work, but their flavor and texture simply don’t compare, especially when it’s a dish centered around shrimp!

EGG – The egg helps bind the rice and other ingredients together while also adding texture.

ADDITIONS – The sesame oil and soy sauce give this dish that distinct fried rice taste, don’t skip these! We’re also adding frozen peas and carrots to the mix along with chopped onion and minced garlic, feel free to add other vegetables to your liking.

How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Heat olive oil in wok over medium high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with garlic salt and cornstarch.
3. Add shrimp to the hot oil and stir fry for 4-5 minutes, tossing continuously.
4. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined dish. Set aside.
5. To the hot wok, add minced garlic, chopped onion, and frozen peas and carrots. Toss to coat.
6. Crack both eggs into a bowl and give them a stir to break up the yolks.
7. Move the vegetables to one side of the wok and add the egg to the other side. Stir the egg to scramble them.
8. Stir to combine the scrambled eggs with the vegetables, then add the cooked rice.
9. Add sesame oil, soy sauce, and the reserved cooked shrimp.
10. Stir everything together well and cook only long enough to heat through.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Shrimp does not take long to cook, which also means it can easily be overcooked. The shrimp will curl and turn opaque with pink and red hues when it is finished cooking. Overcooked shrimp tend to turn a whiteish grey and are rubbery in texture.

Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to moisten.

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Prepare and cook as normal, allow the shrimp fried rice to cool, then transfer the mixture to a large ziptop bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat over medium-low on the stovetop until warmed through (3-5 minutes).

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp fried rice can be served as its own meal or paired with any Asian-style main course. It goes great alongside egg drop soup! Optionally garnish with sliced green onions.

More Related Recipes

• Chow Mein
• Crab Rangoon
• Shrimp and Broccoli
• Sweet and Sour Shrimp
• Pineapple Fried Rice

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