Fried rice is a classic Asian dish that combines day-old rice, vegetables, and seasonings into a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized with whatever you have in your kitchen. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality fried rice at home, packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re using it as a main course or a side dish, this fried rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by making sure your rice is cold and separated. Cold rice prevents clumping and results in better texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook fresh rice and let it cool completely in the refrigerator for at least a few hours. Prepare all your vegetables, beat the eggs, and have your sauces ready before starting to cook.
Step 2: 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, scrambling gently until they are just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they are soft but still vibrant in color. You can use frozen vegetables directly or fresh ones depending on availability. Stir constantly to prevent sticking or overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Turn the heat up slightly and add the cold rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir-fry it with the vegetables for 3–5 minutes. Let the rice sit for a few seconds between stirs to get a bit of a crispy texture on the bottom. This gives the fried rice that signature slightly toasted taste.
Step 6: Add Sauces and Seasoning
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure all the rice is evenly coated with the sauces. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. You can add a little chili sauce if you prefer a spicier version.
Step 7: Add the Scrambled Eggs and Green Onions
Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan and toss them with the rice. Then, stir in the chopped green onions. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Your homemade fried rice is now ready to enjoy. Serve it immediately while hot, garnished with a few more green onions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, stir-fried tofu, or can be eaten on its own for a quick lunch or dinner.