If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen, it has to be this classic Fried Rice Recipe. It turns simple leftovers into a vibrant, flavorful feast that’s both satisfying and incredibly versatile. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the fluffy day-old rice to the savory soy sauce glaze and the crisp freshness of green onions. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a comforting meal, this fried rice brings joy and ease with every panful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Fried Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, adding color, texture, or a punch of flavor that makes the dish come alive.

3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old): Using day-old rice helps achieve that perfect non-mushy texture.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Oil helps prevent sticking and aids in achieving a crispy finish.
2 eggs (beaten): Eggs add a fluffy, protein-rich element with a lovely golden color.
1 small onion (diced): Onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic offers a fragrant, savory kick that wakes up the dish.
1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn): These bring vibrant color and a slight crunch to balance the rice.
½ cup green onions (sliced): Green onions add fresh brightness and a mild, peppery flavor.
2–3 tablespoons soy sauce: Soy sauce delivers the umami saltiness that ties everything together.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Oyster sauce enriches the dish with a subtle sweetness and depth.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Sesame oil lends a toasty aroma that makes the dish unmistakably Asian-inspired.
Salt and pepper to taste: These balance and enhance all the layers of flavor.

How to Make Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Eggs

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until they are fully cooked but still soft. Once done, transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside. This step ensures your eggs stay tender and ready to be folded back into the rice later.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This base builds the rich aroma that carries through the entire fried rice.

Step 3: Cook the Mixed Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables next and let them cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a subtle sweetness and a colorful crunch, making every bite exciting and fresh.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to add your cold, day-old rice. Break up any clumps gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry the rice with the veggies for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to heat through and develop a slightly crisp texture. This step is key to achieving that restaurant-quality fried rice texture.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan along with the sliced green onions. Pour in the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce, then drizzle the sesame oil. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Your Fried Rice Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can transform your fried rice experience. Try sprinkling extra sliced green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and visual appeal. If you like a bit of heat, a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil works wonders here.

Side Dishes

Fried rice is fantastic by itself, but pairing it with simple side dishes can elevate your meal. Crisp cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or even a bowl of hot miso soup complement the flavors perfectly and help round out a satisfying dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Fried Rice Recipe inside a hollowed-out pineapple or scoop it onto lettuce leaves for a light, hand-held option. You can also turn it into a filled omelet or use it as a base for a colorful rice bowl topped with your favorite proteins and sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fried rice can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cooling it quickly and properly prevents moisture buildup, preserving the texture and flavor for your next meal.

Freezing

If you want to save your Fried Rice Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Let the rice cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for about 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat fried rice in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of oil to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving whenever possible, as this can make the rice soggy. Stir often while reheating to warm evenly and revive those delicious flavors.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

It’s best to use day-old rice because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve that ideal fried rice texture. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry for a bit before cooking.

Is this Fried Rice Recipe vegetarian?

This basic version is vegetarian if you skip the oyster sauce or use a vegetarian version of it. You can also easily customize it by adding tofu for extra protein or sticking with just veggies.

Can I add meat or seafood to this recipe?

Absolutely! Diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork all make delicious additions. Add them in step 3 when cooking the vegetables or at the very end to warm through.

How salty should the soy sauce be?

Soy sauce varies in saltiness depending on the brand, so start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to fix a dish that’s too salty.

What oil is best for making fried rice?

Vegetable oil is perfect because it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can also experiment with peanut or canola oil, but avoid olive oil as it may overpower the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Rice Recipe is one of those kitchen staples that never fail to impress or satisfy. Its simplicity belies the incredible flavors and textures it delivers, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. I encourage you to try it exactly as written first, then tweak it with your favorite add-ins until it feels like your own signature dish. Once you experience the joy of making your own perfect fried rice, I promise it will become a cherished classic in your meal rotation.

Fried Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 50 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This easy and flavorful Fried Rice recipe is a perfect way to transform leftover rice into a delicious meal. Made with scrambled eggs, mixed vegetables, and a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, it’s a quick stir-fry that serves as a satisfying main course or side dish. Ideal for busy weeknights, this versatile dish can be customized with your choice of protein or kept vegetarian.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Protein

3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old)
2 eggs (beaten)

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
½ cup green onions (sliced)

Sauces and Oils

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
2–3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Seasonings

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Scramble the Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook while stirring until fully scrambled. Transfer the cooked eggs to a plate and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Cook Mixed Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn) to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they are warmed through.
Stir-Fry the Rice: Add the cold, day-old rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry the rice for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to heat through and develop slight crispness on the bottom.
Combine Ingredients: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan along with the sliced green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Toss and stir-fry everything together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Season and Serve: Taste the fried rice and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

For extra protein, add diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish while stir-frying the vegetables.
Day-old rice works best to prevent mushiness and helps achieve the desired texture.
Adjust the amount of soy sauce based on your preferred saltiness level to avoid over-salting.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Side Dish
Method: Stirfrying
Cuisine: Asian