Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Simple Meal Solutions
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm in a hurry but still craving something delicious. The combination of fluffy eggs, tender rice, and vibrant veggies comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for unplanned meals or a last-minute snack. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, I often find myself reaching for this recipe whenever I need a satisfying dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
It's amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can create such incredible flavor in this Egg Fried Rice. I often experiment by adding leftover vegetables from previous meals, which not only enhances the taste but also minimizes food waste. The secret lies in using cold, day-old rice, as it separates better during cooking and absorbs the flavors nicely.
Another tip I've discovered is to customize the soy sauce according to your taste. Adding a dash of sesame oil at the end gives it that authentic Chinese restaurant flavor. The versatility of this dish shines through and has made it a staple in my culinary repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time makes it easy to fit into a busy lifestyle.
- Versatile and customizable with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
- Delicious flavor that can rival takeout without the expense.
Key Ingredient Insights
Using cold, day-old rice is essential for achieving the perfect fried rice texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky, which can result in clumping rather than the desirable fluffy separation. If you’re short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly and dry out slightly before using it in this recipe.
The choice of vegetables can significantly affect both flavor and nutrition. For a hint of sweetness and crunch, bell peppers or snap peas can be great additions. If you're looking for more greens, consider adding spinach or zucchini. The great thing about this recipe is its versatility; feel free to use whatever fresh or frozen vegetables you have on hand.
Techniques for Perfecting Egg Fried Rice
When scrambling the eggs, a non-stick skillet is your best friend. This prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping. Cook the eggs just until they’re set and slightly fluffy, which only takes about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. Overcooking can make the eggs rubbery, so once they change from translucent to solid, remove them from heat to retain their fluffiness.
Proper stir-frying is crucial for integrating flavors. Once you add the cold rice, use a spatula to gently break apart clumps rather than stirring vigorously. This method keeps the grains intact and ensures even distribution of flavors. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes, just until the rice is heated through and begins to shimmer, indicating it's absorbing the soy sauce.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Make sure your ingredients are prepped and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your egg fried rice:
Prepare the Eggs
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked, then set them aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine Rice and Eggs
Add the cold rice to the skillet and break apart any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the scrambled eggs and soy sauce, mixing well.
Final Touches
Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture and stir for an additional minute. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, then serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice!
Pro Tips
- For best results, use cold, day-old rice for perfect texture. Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the egg fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be just as quick as making this dish from scratch. Simply add a splash of water or sesame oil to the rice before microwaving to help restore moisture, preventing the rice from drying out.
If you plan to make this dish in batches, consider dividing the cooked rice and vegetables into meal prep containers. This allows for a quick grab-and-go option during busy weekdays, ensuring you always have a satisfying meal on hand.
Variations to Try
For a protein boost, add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu, cooking them in the skillet before adding the vegetables. This not only enhances the dish nutritionally but also makes it more filling, perfect as a main course. Just make sure any meat is fully cooked before mixing in the rice and other ingredients.
You can easily switch up flavor profiles by experimenting with sauces. Try adding oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or a splash of rice vinegar for brightness. Each variation can elevate your egg fried rice experience, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, but the texture might be different. Cooked rice is recommended for the best results.
→ What vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you like! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach work well.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
→ Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs and consider adding tofu for protein.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm in a hurry but still craving something delicious. The combination of fluffy eggs, tender rice, and vibrant veggies comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for unplanned meals or a last-minute snack. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, I often find myself reaching for this recipe whenever I need a satisfying dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Simple Meal Solutions
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked, then set them aside.
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the cold rice to the skillet and break apart any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the scrambled eggs and soy sauce, mixing well.
Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture and stir for an additional minute. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, then serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For best results, use cold, day-old rice for perfect texture. Feel free to add proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g