Name: Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe: Savory and Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled); 3 cups cooked white rice (chilled); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/2 cup diced carrots; 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional); 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 green onions (sliced); Optional: Extra green onions (sesame seeds); Suggested Pairings: Green tea (egg rolls)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Shrimp Fried Rice is a classic main dish or hearty side, perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or casual gatherings. This vibrant, umami-rich dish combines tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables in a savory soy-based sauce, delivering bold flavors in every bite. Presented in a white ceramic serving bowl, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds, this Shrimp Fried Rice recipe offers an appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings Asian-inspired charm to any meal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Fried Rice:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old (jasmine or long-grain)
2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
1 tsp sesame oil
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 green onions, sliced

For Serving:

Optional: Extra green onions, toasted sesame seeds
Suggested Accompaniments: Egg rolls, steamed broccoli, and cucumber salad
Suggested Pairings: Green tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic serving bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large skillet or wok, spatula, knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons, small bowl

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Ingredients: Cook rice in advance and chill for at least 2 hours (or use day-old rice) for the best texture. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with a pinch of black pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate.
Scramble Eggs: In the same skillet, add a drizzle of oil if needed. Pour in beaten eggs and scramble until just set, about 1–2 minutes. Remove to the plate with shrimp.
Cook Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Add onion and carrots; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and peas; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Rice and Sauce: Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until rice is heated through and evenly coated.
Combine and Adjust: Return shrimp and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or pepper for balanced flavor.
Serve: Transfer Shrimp Fried Rice to a white ceramic serving bowl. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds. Serve hot with egg rolls, steamed broccoli, cucumber salad, green tea, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Shrimp Fried Rice

Use day-old, chilled rice to prevent a mushy texture; fresh rice can be spread on a tray and refrigerated for 2 hours.
Taste the dish before serving to balance savory, umami, and peppery flavors; adjust cautiously with soy sauce or pepper.
Pat shrimp dry to ensure a good sear and avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Cook over high heat in a wok or large skillet for authentic stir-fry texture and flavor.
Present in a white ceramic serving bowl to highlight the colorful ingredients and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prep vegetables and cook rice up to 1 day in advance; store separately in the fridge and stir-fry fresh.
For extra flavor, add 1 tsp grated ginger with the garlic.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds in a white ceramic bowl for a vibrant, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Shrimp Fried Rice: Use gluten-free soy sauce and omit oyster sauce or use a gluten-free alternative.
Vegan Shrimp Fried Rice: Replace shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and omit eggs; use vegan oyster sauce or extra soy sauce.
Low-Sodium Shrimp Fried Rice: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce to 2 tbsp; adjust to taste.
Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tbsp sriracha with the soy sauce.
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice: Add 1/2 cup diced pineapple for a sweet-savory twist.
Vegetable-Packed Shrimp Fried Rice: Include 1/2 cup diced bell peppers or corn with the vegetables.
Kimchi Shrimp Fried Rice: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped kimchi for a tangy, spicy kick.
Sesame Shrimp Fried Rice: Increase sesame oil to 2 tsp and add 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to restore texture.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet to avoid sogginess.
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Use as a main dish or hearty side with Asian-inspired sides.
Pair with green tea or sparkling water to complement the savory, umami flavor.
Present in a white ceramic serving bowl with garnishes for an appetizing, vibrant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings:

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 190mg
Sodium: 960mg
Total Carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 24g
Vitamin A: 60% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 15% Daily Value
Calcium: 8% Daily Value
Iron: 12% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~600mg). High in protein and vitamin A; enjoy with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe delivers a savory, flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into an Asian-inspired classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tender shrimp and umami-rich rice delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing appeal.