Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Instant Kitchen Favorites
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a delicious meal in a flash. With just a handful of ingredients, I can transform leftover rice into a vibrant dish bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and my family always asks for seconds. Whether as a quick lunch or a light dinner, it satisfies my taste buds and comes together in no time. Give it a try next time you're short on time!
When I first made this Egg Fried Rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, especially on nights when I was pressed for time. I quickly realized that using cold, leftover rice makes all the difference; it gets the perfect texture without turning mushy. I customize it with whatever vegetables I have in the fridge, making it both versatile and efficient.
Plus, I learned that adding the eggs at just the right moment gives a lovely creaminess that binds everything together. Tossing in a splash of soy sauce at the end elevates the flavors without overwhelming the dish. I never fail to impress family and friends with this quick meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation that fits into any busy schedule
- Versatile and customizable with whatever ingredients you have
- Deliciously rich flavors that make leftovers taste incredible
Choosing the Right Rice
The type of rice you choose can significantly affect the texture of your fried rice. For this recipe, day-old cooked rice is ideal since it's drier and less likely to clump together when frying. If you don't have leftover rice, cook some and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before using it. Spreading it on a baking sheet can help speed up cooling, ensuring that your fried rice has the right consistency.
If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider using brown rice. It adds a nuttier flavor and additional fiber to the dish, making it more filling. Just be aware that brown rice may require slightly more cooking time and moisture than white rice, so adjust your cooking approach accordingly.
Ingredient Variations
One of the best aspects of egg fried rice is its versatility. You can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, adding bell peppers brings a sweet crunch, while snap peas can introduce a refreshing snap. Feel free to throw in any leftover proteins like chicken or shrimp, which can elevate the dish and make it more substantial.
For those with dietary restrictions, tofu can be a fantastic substitute for eggs or added as an extra protein. Just crumble it into the pan after cooking the vegetables, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sesame oil and soy sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients. If using leftover rice, ensure it’s cold and separate any clumps. Chop the vegetables and green onions finely.
Cook the Eggs
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl, then pour them into the pan. Scramble until they are just cooked, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of sesame oil to the same pan. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cold rice to the pan with the vegetables, stirring well to mix. Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic or ginger to the vegetables as they cook. You can also include cooked protein such as chicken or shrimp to make it heartier.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing leftovers is simple—just transfer the egg fried rice into an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. This dish reheats wonderfully in a microwave, or for an even better texture, reheat it in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water to the pan to create steam, which helps revive the rice and prevent it from drying out.
If you want to enjoy this dish later on, consider freezing portions. Place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it using the same methods mentioned earlier.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice can stand alone as a delightful meal, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes. Serve it alongside a light soy sauce dip or a fresh cucumber salad to add a refreshing contrast. You can also offer pickled vegetables for a tangy balance.
For added flavor, consider drizzling a little chili oil or sriracha on top just before serving. It not only enhances the richness of the dish but also caters to those who enjoy a little heat. I love making it a part of a larger spread, especially during family dinners, so everyone can enjoy different variations!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?
Yes, but it's best to use cold, day-old rice for the ideal texture. Fresh rice can get mushy.
→ What vegetables work best in fried rice?
You can use any vegetables you like! Common choices include peas, carrots, bell peppers, and corn.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the eggs or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegetarian.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace soy sauce with a gluten-free option like tamari or coconut aminos.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a delicious meal in a flash. With just a handful of ingredients, I can transform leftover rice into a vibrant dish bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and my family always asks for seconds. Whether as a quick lunch or a light dinner, it satisfies my taste buds and comes together in no time. Give it a try next time you're short on time!
Created by: Brielle Thompson
Recipe Type: Instant Kitchen Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather all your ingredients. If using leftover rice, ensure it’s cold and separate any clumps. Chop the vegetables and green onions finely.
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl, then pour them into the pan. Scramble until they are just cooked, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Add another tablespoon of sesame oil to the same pan. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Add the cold rice to the pan with the vegetables, stirring well to mix. Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic or ginger to the vegetables as they cook. You can also include cooked protein such as chicken or shrimp to make it heartier.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g