Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Weeknight Wonders
I love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I’m short on time but still want something satisfying. This dish has quickly become my go-to for a delicious meal, thanks to its simple ingredients and quick prep. The best part? It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with whatever vegetables and seasonings I have on hand. In just 10 minutes, I can whip up a plate that’s packed with flavor and comfort.
One evening, I found myself staring at a fridge full of veggies and cold rice, wondering what to make for dinner. That's when I decided to throw together this Egg Fried Rice. Not only is it a breeze to cook, but the scrambled eggs add a wonderful creaminess that ties all the flavors together. I was amazed by how quickly it came together, and it became a new favorite in my household.
Through a little experimentation, I learned that adding a splash of soy sauce and some sesame oil really elevates the dish. I love how versatile it is, allowing me to be creative with the ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a filling meal without spending much time in the kitchen!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple preparation in just 10 minutes
- Versatile with endless customization options
- Delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite
Mastering Egg Fried Rice
To achieve the best texture in your fried rice, use day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky, while cold rice has dried out slightly, allowing it to fry up nicely without clumping together. If you must use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes before using.
When it comes to scrambling eggs, it's essential to keep the heat medium to avoid overcooking them. Cook them until just set, so they remain tender and moist. If they become too dry or rubbery, they won't integrate well with the rice. A non-stick pan or wok can be incredibly helpful here, allowing for easier removal and less sticking.
Customizing Your Fried Rice
The beauty of egg fried rice lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the mixed vegetables for any leftovers you have. Broccoli, zucchini, and even corn are great options. Just make sure to chop everything into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Frozen veggies are also a fantastic shortcut and can be added directly to the pan without thawing.
If you're looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the mix. For an added flavor kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat. Just be cautious with salt, especially if you’re using soy sauce or salty toppings, to avoid overpowering the dish.
Serving and Storage Tips
Egg fried rice is best served immediately while it's piping hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. Pair it with your favorite protein, or serve it as a side dish to complement stir-fries or grilled meats. For added texture, consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Should you have leftovers, store your fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help steam it and restore its moisture. If you're planning to freeze it, portion out your fried rice in single servings and use it within a month for the best quality.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your preference and what you have in your pantry.
Instructions
Prepare your workspace and have your ingredients ready to go for a seamless cooking experience.
Heat the oil
In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Scramble the eggs
Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Stir-fry the vegetables
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Add rice and flavor
Add the cooked rice to the pan along with the soy sauce, and stir well to combine everything.
Incorporate the eggs
Finally, add the scrambled eggs back to the pan, toss everything together, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade Egg Fried Rice, and don’t forget to tweak it to your taste!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or ginger into the vegetable stir-fry. Leftover proteins like chicken or shrimp can also be a great addition.
Ingredient Insights
Try experimenting with different types of soy sauce to find your preferred flavor. Light soy sauce is typically saltier and adds a more pronounced umami flavor, while dark soy sauce can give your fried rice a richer color and slightly sweet note. If you're watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is an excellent alternative.
Sesame oil plays a pivotal role in this recipe, imparting a nutty aroma that elevates the dish. If unavailable, a neutral oil like canola can be used instead. However, I recommend drizzling some toasted sesame oil over the dish at serving time to retain that signature flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your fried rice turns out too wet or mushy, it may be due to overcooking the rice or adding too much sauce. In the future, ensure your rice is adequately cooled and dry. You can salvage it somewhat by stir-frying it in a hot pan to evaporate excess moisture, but it might not be as fluffy.
Conversely, if your fried rice seems too dry, a simple solution is to add a bit more oil or a touch of liquid like broth as you heat it. Stir thoroughly to redistribute moisture evenly throughout the dish, ensuring every bite remains flavorful and delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! In fact, day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky.
→ What vegetables are best for fried rice?
You can use a mix of your favorites, like peas, carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Just replace the eggs with tofu or skip them entirely for a delicious vegan option.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I’m short on time but still want something satisfying. This dish has quickly become my go-to for a delicious meal, thanks to its simple ingredients and quick prep. The best part? It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with whatever vegetables and seasonings I have on hand. In just 10 minutes, I can whip up a plate that’s packed with flavor and comfort.
Created by: Imogen Walker
Recipe Type: Weeknight Wonders
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Add the cooked rice to the pan along with the soy sauce, and stir well to combine everything.
Finally, add the scrambled eggs back to the pan, toss everything together, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or ginger into the vegetable stir-fry. Leftover proteins like chicken or shrimp can also be a great addition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g