If you’re craving a meal that brings together savory prawns, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies in a way that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious, you have to try this Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe. It’s packed with bright colors, bold flavors, and a perfect balance of textures that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re whipping up dinner for yourself or impressing friends with minimal effort, this recipe turns humble ingredients into a dish you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful harmony of each ingredient. Every element, from the tender prawns to the crisp veggies and delicate eggs, adds a layer of texture and flavor that creates the perfect bite.
- 2 cups Cooked Rice: Day-old rice works best to keep your fried rice fluffy and prevents it from turning mushy.
- 1/2 cup Oil: Canola oil has a neutral taste to let other flavors shine while providing the perfect cooking medium.
- 10 pieces Prawns: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined; adjust quantity based on your appetite or preference.
- 1/2 cup Onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and aroma that infuses the dish.
- 1 cup Mixed Veggies: Peas, carrots, and bell peppers bring crunch, color, and freshness.
- 3 units Eggs: Lightly beaten, but not too much—to keep a heartier texture in your fried rice.
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami; feel free to tweak the amount to suit your palate.
- 2-3 tablespoons Water: Keeps the rice moist and silky without overdoing it.
- 1/4 cup Spring Onion: Chopped, optional, for a fresh, bright garnish.
- 1 teaspoon Butter: Optional but highly recommended—it enhances the prawns’ flavor and adds richness.
How to Make Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and making sure your rice is cooled and separated so it doesn’t clump together. Chop your onions, spring onions, and veggies, and have your prawns ready to cook. This prep work sets you up for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Step 2: Cook the Prawns
Heat a generous splash of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the prawns and cook them just until they turn pink and slightly firm—usually 2-3 minutes per side. For an extra layer of flavor, add the optional butter right after they start cooking. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside so they don’t overcook.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Onions
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the finely chopped onions. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Next, add your mixed veggies and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, so they stay vibrant and retain a slight crunch.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the cleared space. Let them sit for a few seconds before stirring gently to create soft curds. This technique keeps the eggs chunky and texturally interesting, pairing perfectly with the rice.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Seasonings
Now add the cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the rice and add 2-3 tablespoons of water to keep everything moist. Stir constantly to ensure each grain is coated with the savory sauce mixture.
Step 6: Finish with Prawns and Spring Onions
Return the cooked prawns to the pan and gently fold them into the rice mixture. Toss in the chopped spring onions if you like to add a burst of freshness and color. Give everything a final stir and cook for another minute or so to meld all the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe
Garnishes
To take your shrimp fried rice from great to unforgettable, top it with extra chopped spring onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or even a few sprigs of fresh cilantro. For a little heat, add thinly sliced chili or a drizzle of chili oil—it makes the dish burst with personality and flair.
Side Dishes
This fried rice stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to build a meal, I recommend pairing it with light sides like a cucumber salad to cool things down or crispy spring rolls for contrast. A clear broth soup is also a classic accompaniment that balances the richness of the fried rice perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shrimp fried rice in individual pineapple bowls for an impressive presentation that amps up the tropical vibes. You can also mold the rice into neat little domes using a bowl before plating or sprinkle some crushed peanuts on top for unexpected crunch and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can also freeze this shrimp fried rice if you want to save it for later. Just cool it completely, pack it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to revive the rice’s moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible since it may dry out the dish. Stir frequently to warm it evenly and bring back that fresh-from-the-wok flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Freshly cooked rice tends to be wetter and stickier, which can make your fried rice mushy. Day-old rice is drier and separates easily, making it ideal for this recipe. If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a tray and cool it thoroughly before using.
What type of shrimp works best?
Medium to large prawns or shrimp that are peeled and deveined are perfect. This recipe calls for 10 pieces, but you can adjust the quantity depending on how shrimp-heavy you want your fried rice. Frozen shrimp work well too; just thaw them completely before cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the prawns and add extra veggies or tofu for protein. Adjust the soy sauce and seasoning accordingly to keep the dish flavorful. It’s a versatile base that welcomes your favorite plant-based ingredients.
What’s the secret to getting the ‘fried’ texture without a deep fryer?
High heat, a good neutral oil, and properly separated day-old rice are key. Stirring quickly and continuously helps to evenly cook and slightly toast the rice, giving you that classic fried rice texture without any frying at all.
Can I substitute soy sauce with other sauces?
You can experiment with tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste. Just be mindful of how these substitutions alter the overall flavor and adjust quantities accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely heartwarming about a bowl of shrimp fried rice that’s ready in under 30 minutes, and with the Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe, you get all that comfort without any fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to weeknight dish or crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Best Shrimp Fried Rice: Quick, Easy, and Full of Flavor Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Best Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that combines succulent prawns, mixed vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice with savory soy sauce. Using day-old rice prevents sogginess, ensuring a deliciously textured meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Ready in just 25 minutes, this shrimp fried rice is a crowd-pleaser packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked Rice (Use day-old rice for best texture.)
- 10 pieces Prawns (Adjust quantity to taste.)
- 3 units Eggs (Try not to whisk them for a heartier bite.)
- 1/2 cup Onion (Finely chopped.)
- 1 cup Mixed Veggies (Peas, carrots, and bell peppers.)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Adjust to taste.)
- 2–3 tablespoons Water (Add as needed to keep the rice moist.)
- 1/4 cup Spring Onion (Chopped, optional.)
Cooking Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Oil (Opt for canola oil for a neutral flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Butter (Optional, enhances the flavor of prawns.)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the prawns. Chop the onion finely and prepare mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Beat the eggs lightly but avoid overwhisking for a better texture.
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet or wok, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the teaspoon of butter if using, which enhances the flavor of the prawns.
- Cook Prawns: Add the prawns to the hot oil and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables and Onion: In the same pan, add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Then add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp.
- Add Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, crack the eggs into the empty space and scramble gently, cooking until just set but still tender.
- Combine Rice and Season: Add the cooked day-old rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Mix everything well. Pour in the soy sauce and 2-3 tablespoons of water to moisten and evenly coat the rice. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Return Prawns to Pan: Add the cooked prawns back into the pan and toss gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for another 1-2 minutes on medium heat.
- Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped spring onions over the top. Give it a final stir and serve hot for best results.
Notes
- Use day-old rice or cooked rice that has cooled and dried to achieve the best texture and prevent mushiness.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity as per your taste preference to control saltiness.
- For added flavor, you can add minced garlic or ginger with onions.
- Use a wok or a large skillet to allow plenty of space for stir-frying without overcrowding.
- This recipe can be customized by adding other proteins like chicken or tofu or changing the vegetable mix.
- For a spicier version, add chili sauce or fresh chopped chilies while stir-frying.
