Fried Rice with Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings a seafood twist to the beloved classic. This versatile and universally loved meal is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining tender and succulent shrimp with the comforting taste of fried rice. It’s a dish that is often enjoyed as a satisfying main or a side dish, encapsulating the essence of quick and easy Asian cuisine. With each grain of rice perfectly coated with a mix of soy sauce and aromatic spices, and the shrimp providing a juicy bite, this fried rice variation promises a simple yet indulgent culinary experience.
Ingredients for Fried Rice with Shrimp
- 2 cups of cooked rice, preferably day-old and chilled
- 1/2 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Steps for Fried Rice with Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the eggs and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs and chop them into small pieces, then set aside with the shrimp.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
- Increase the heat to high and add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice begins to brown slightly.
- Add the peas and carrots, and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- Return the cooked shrimp and eggs to the pan, pouring in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything thoroughly to combine and heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with green onions before serving.
In conclusion, Fried Rice with Shrimp is a quick and delightful dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. When selecting ingredients, fresh shrimp are key, as they will lend a sweet and tender element to the dish. Day-old rice is ideal for achieving the perfect texture, as it doesn’t clump together and fries up nicely. The beauty of fried rice lies in its adaptability, allowing for various vegetables and proteins to be included based on preference. This dish not only offers a delectable seafood twist on traditional fried rice but also serves as an excellent way to incorporate a balanced portion of protein and vegetables into one’s diet. It’s a testament to the delicious versatility of fried rice and its ability to bring simple ingredients together in a harmonious and satisfying meal.