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Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice

A quick and comforting shrimp fried rice packed with flavor, tender shrimp, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to prepare, full of warmth, and reminiscent of nostalgic takeout nights, but made healthier at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian / Chinese-inspired
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked white rice (preferably cooled or day-old)
300–350 g peeled, deveined shrimp
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots) — optional but adds color and texture
2–3 tablespoons soy sauce (low‑sodium if preferred)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or mix of oil + a little sesame oil for aroma)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Method
 

Prepare your rice first. If possible, use rice cooked ahead and cooled — day‑old rice works best because the grains are drier and separate more easily when stir‑frying.
    Heat the pan. Warm a large skillet or wok over medium‑high heat; add the vegetable oil, swirling to coat.
      Cook shrimp. Add the shrimp to the hot oil. Stir frequently for about 1–2 minutes per side or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.
        Sauté aromatics. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir for about 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
          Add vegetables (optional). Toss in the frozen peas and carrots (or any vegetables you like), stirring until they’re warmed through, about 1–2 minutes.
            Scramble eggs. Push veggies to one side of the pan. Pour beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble gently until just set. Then mix with the vegetables.
              Combine rice and seasoning. Add the cooled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Pour over the soy sauce, and stir-fry — tossing everything together so rice gets heated thoroughly, absorbs the sauce, and begins to crisp slightly at the edges.
                Return shrimp & finish. Add cooked shrimp back to the pan. Stir well to combine, taste, then adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
                  Garnish and serve. Turn off the heat, sprinkle sliced green onions on top, give a final gentle toss, and serve immediately while hot and fragrant.
                    Why You Will Love This Recipe
                      Speed + satisfaction: In about 20–25 minutes you get a full meal — no long prep, no heavy cleanup. Great for busy weeknights.
                        Comforting and versatile: Shrimp adds protein, rice gives comfort, and you can adapt vegetables and seasoning to your taste or what’s available.
                          Flavorful simplicity: Garlic, onion, soy sauce, and sesame oil give a savory, slightly nutty profile without being overwhelming.
                            Leftover‑friendly: Uses leftover rice or fridge shrimp — minimizing waste and saving money.
                              Balanced and complete: You get carbs, proteins, some veggies — a filling dish that feels fulfilling yet not heavy.