Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Fast Cooking Essentials
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice on busy weeknights when I crave something flavorful but need to whip it up fast. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can use any leftover rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand. I often throw in some peas and carrots for color and nutrition. In just a few minutes, you're left with a delicious, satisfying meal that brightens up the dinner table! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option that never disappoints.
When I first learned to make fried rice, I was surprised at how quickly I could turn a few simple ingredients into an exciting dish. The trick is to use day-old rice, as it’s drier and separates easily during cooking. Last week, I experimented by adding some fresh scallions, and wow, did it elevate the flavors! This dish not only saves time but is also a great way to use up leftovers.
I usually have my ingredients ready to go before I start cooking. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, and I avoid any last-minute scrambling. I can guarantee that this method transforms the eggs into fluffy perfection while ensuring each grain of rice is coated in deliciousness. Give it a try!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
- Endless customizability with your favorite veggies and proteins
- Deliciously satisfying, combining protein and carbs in one dish
Essential Techniques for Perfect Fried Rice
The key to achieving the perfect texture in this egg fried rice lies in the rice itself. Ideally, you should use day-old jasmine rice, as it has dried out a bit in the refrigerator, making it less sticky and easier to fry. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 10 minutes before using it in this recipe. This helps minimize clumping and results in a better overall texture.
When cooking the vegetables and rice, make sure your skillet or wok is hot enough to create a slight sizzle when you add the ingredients. This high heat caramelizes the vegetables while allowing the rice to become slightly crispy around the edges—a delicious contrast to the tender eggs. Stir-frying quickly prevents overcooking the vegetables, which should retain some crunch for a satisfying bite.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even leftover roasted vegetables can all work beautifully in this dish. If you have cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, consider adding them for extra protein. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to warm through any pre-cooked ingredients without overcooking the fresh vegetables.
For those avoiding soy sauce due to dietary needs, tamari or coconut aminos can be excellent alternatives that provide a similar salty flavor without gluten. You can also experiment with flavored oils, such as sesame oil, for a richer taste that complements the simplicity of the fried rice.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for perfect fried rice!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your egg fried rice.
Prepare the Rice
If using day-old rice, break up any clumps with your fingers. If freshly cooked, let it cool for a few minutes to reduce stickiness.
Scramble the Eggs
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the pan. Stir gently until fully scrambled, then transfer them to a plate.
Cook Vegetables and Rice
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Next, add the rice and soy sauce, mix well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Combine Everything
Fold the scrambled eggs back into the rice mixture, adding chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir everything until combined.
Serve
Dish out your fried rice while it’s hot and enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your freshly made egg fried rice!
Pro Tips
- For a smokier flavor, use a dash of sesame oil. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftover egg fried rice, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth in the pan to help steam the rice and restore some moisture. Heat it over medium until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
For longer preservation, this fried rice can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and you can enjoy it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet to regain that delightful fried texture.
Creative Serving Suggestions
While this egg fried rice is delightful on its own, you can elevate the meal by serving it alongside a side salad or steamed dumplings. Consider a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a drizzle of sriracha before serving to create layers of flavor and make each bite exciting.
You can also transform this dish into a more substantial meal by adding a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk acts almost like a sauce, adding richness, and making it visually appealing. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fried rice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, brown rice works well, but make sure it's cooked and cooled to avoid soggy fried rice.
→ How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the eggs or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version.
→ What if I don’t have soy sauce?
You can use tamari as a gluten-free alternative or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor.
→ Is it okay to freeze the fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container and reheated properly before serving.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice on busy weeknights when I crave something flavorful but need to whip it up fast. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can use any leftover rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand. I often throw in some peas and carrots for color and nutrition. In just a few minutes, you're left with a delicious, satisfying meal that brightens up the dinner table! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option that never disappoints.
Created by: Keira Thompson
Recipe Type: Fast Cooking Essentials
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
If using day-old rice, break up any clumps with your fingers. If freshly cooked, let it cool for a few minutes to reduce stickiness.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the pan. Stir gently until fully scrambled, then transfer them to a plate.
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Next, add the rice and soy sauce, mix well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Fold the scrambled eggs back into the rice mixture, adding chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir everything until combined.
Dish out your fried rice while it’s hot and enjoy your meal!
Extra Tips
- For a smokier flavor, use a dash of sesame oil. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g