Shrimp fried rice is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the umami flavors of succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and a colorful medley of vegetables. This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that is bursting with savory goodness and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into the world of shrimp fried rice and discover how you can whip up this flavorful meal in a flash.
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The Story Behind Shrimp Fried Rice
Shrimp fried rice is a classic dish that originated in Chinese cuisine and has become a beloved staple in households around the world. Its roots can be traced back to the Han Dynasty in China, where stir-frying rice with ingredients like shrimp, vegetables, and eggs was a practical way to repurpose leftovers into a delicious new meal. Over the centuries, this humble dish has evolved to include various regional variations and has found its way onto the menus of Chinese restaurants worldwide.
The Magic of Wok Cooking
One of the secrets to perfect shrimp fried rice lies in the art of wok cooking. The wok’s unique shape and high heat conductivity allow you to quickly stir-fry the ingredients, resulting in a dish that is infused with smoky wok hei (breath of the wok). This complex, slightly charred flavor adds depth to the dish and elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. So, dust off your wok and get ready to channel your inner stir-fry master.
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Fried Rice
The beauty of shrimp fried rice lies in its simplicity and versatility. The key ingredients include plump shrimp, day-old cooked rice (preferably jasmine or long-grain), aromatic garlic and ginger, crisp vegetables like carrots and peas, and essential seasonings such as soy sauce and sesame oil. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same wok, add a bit more oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until slightly tender.
4. Push vegetables to the side of the wok and pour beaten eggs into the center. Scramble until just set.
5. Add rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Toss in cooked shrimp and continue to stir-fry for another minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Pro Tips:
– Use day-old rice for the best texture, as fresh rice can turn mushy.
– Customize your fried rice with your favorite vegetables or protein choices.
– For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of Chinese five-spice powder.
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FAQs
Can I make shrimp fried rice ahead of time?
Yes, shrimp fried rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet with a bit of oil or microwave until heated through.
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In conclusion, shrimp fried rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered. So, grab your wok and ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious shrimp fried rice and feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own. Happy cooking!
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice in Just 20 Minutes
Description
Deliciously simple shrimp fried rice bursting with umami flavors, a speedy meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Seasonings
Optional Additions
Instructions
Cooking the Rice
Cooking the Rice
Start by cooking 1 cup of jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread it on a tray to cool and dry out a bit.
Using day-old rice works best for fried rice as it's firmer and less sticky.
Preparing the Ingredients
Prepping the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp of sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Marinating the shrimp adds flavor and helps keep them tender when cooking.Chopping Vegetables
Chop 1 small onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 carrot, and 1 bell pepper into small pieces. Beat 2 eggs in a small bowl.
Uniformly chopped vegetables ensure even cooking and a balanced bite in every spoonful.
Cooking the Fried Rice
Stir-Frying
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook until pink, then remove and set aside.
Cook the shrimp quickly to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery.Vegetables and Eggs
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper until slightly softened. Push the veggies to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just set.
Creating separate zones for the eggs and vegetables ensures proper cooking without getting mushy.Combining the Ingredients
Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir in 3 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp of sesame oil, and the cooked shrimp. Mix everything well until heated through.
Using high heat helps achieve that classic wok hei flavor in your fried rice.
Finishing Touches
Final Seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or sesame oil if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
The final taste test is crucial for balancing flavors before serving.Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the shrimp fried rice to a serving dish and enjoy it hot. Pair with some chili sauce for an extra kick!
Fried rice is best enjoyed fresh off the stove for that perfect combination of textures and flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Cholesterol 185mg62%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 26g52%
- Vitamin A 520 IU
- Vitamin C 18 mg
- Calcium 95 mg
- Iron 2.4 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use day-old rice for the best texture.
- Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or veggies for variations.
- Add a dash of fish sauce for an extra umami kick.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to refresh the rice.
