Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Quick Bite Kitchen
When I'm in a hurry, nothing beats a plate of quick and easy egg fried rice. I love how I can whip it up in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. With simple ingredients, this dish transcends mere convenience; it bursts with flavor, making each bite a delight. I often find myself adding leftover vegetables, which not only enhances the taste but also makes it a more balanced meal. Let's savor this easy recipe together and indulge in the joy of homemade comfort food.
One evening, after a long day, I needed to make something fast and satisfying without compromising on flavor. I grabbed some day-old rice from the fridge and turned it into a delicious egg fried rice masterpiece within just 10 minutes. The secret here is to use cold rice, which prevents clumping and ensures each grain gets that lovely texture.
As I whipped it up, I realized that having a few basic ingredients on hand allows me to convert simple recipes into gourmet experiences. A splash of soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil gave it a rich, wonderful flavor that transported me to a bustling street market with every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and satisfying meal in just 10 minutes
- Versatile to customize with leftover vegetables or protein
- Savory flavors make it a delightful comfort food
Mastering the Rice Texture
Using day-old rice is critical for achieving the perfect texture in this egg fried rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and can clump together, resulting in a mushy dish. When using older rice, the grains are firmer and drier, allowing for a distinct separation during frying. If you don't have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to cool and firm up before using it in this recipe.
As you combine the rice with the soy sauce, aim for an even distribution without breaking the rice grains. Use a spatula to gently stir and ensure the soy sauce coats each grain, creating a savory flavor throughout. Stir-fry until the rice appears glossy and heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat.
Vegetable Variations and Add-ins
This recipe offers a great opportunity to use up any leftover vegetables you may have. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just be mindful of the cooking times; harder vegetables should be added in the first step, while softer ones can be mixed in during the last minute of cooking. Pre-cook any vegetables like broccoli or carrots for better texture before adding them to avoid prolonged stir-frying that could burn your rice.
If you're looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply toss these proteins in with the scrambled eggs near the end of the cooking process, allowing them to warm through without overcooking. This adds not only substance to the dish but also a delightful variety of textures.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and set them out to make the cooking process smooth and quick.
Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Scramble the Eggs
Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2 minutes until tender.
Combine Rice and Soy Sauce
Add the day-old rice to the pan, pour in the soy sauce, and stir well to combine all ingredients.
Add Eggs and Green Onions
Stir in the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions, mixing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve Hot
Remove from heat and serve your quick and easy egg fried rice warm!
Enjoy Your Meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some garlic or ginger while cooking the vegetables. You can also substitute tofu or chicken for an added protein boost.
Serving Suggestions
This egg fried rice can be enjoyed as a standalone dish, but serving it alongside a light salad or some steamed dumplings can elevate your meal. For an added touch, drizzle a bit of sriracha or chili oil on top for those who enjoy a spicy kick. I often garnish my fried rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for extra texture and flavor development.
If you prefer a richer taste, consider making a quick homemade dipping sauce using soy sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a bit of chopped ginger to enhance the overall experience with this dish. Serve the sauce in small individual bowls to allow each diner to adjust the flavor to their liking.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, egg fried rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. To maintain the best texture upon reheating, add a splash of water or broth before microwaving, covering the container to trap steam. This helps to revitalize the rice and prevent it from drying out, giving you a nearly fresh meal.
For longer storage, consider freezing the fried rice in portions. It can last for up to a month when properly sealed. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which helps maintain the integrity of the rice. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of oil if necessary, until warmed through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old?
Using day-old rice is best as it prevents clumping; however, if you're in a pinch, spread fresh rice out on a tray to cool before using.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms based on your preference.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the eggs and add tofu for protein, or use a vegan egg replacement.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best results.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
When I'm in a hurry, nothing beats a plate of quick and easy egg fried rice. I love how I can whip it up in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. With simple ingredients, this dish transcends mere convenience; it bursts with flavor, making each bite a delight. I often find myself adding leftover vegetables, which not only enhances the taste but also makes it a more balanced meal. Let's savor this easy recipe together and indulge in the joy of homemade comfort food.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Quick Bite Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather all your ingredients and set them out to make the cooking process smooth and quick.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2 minutes until tender.
Add the day-old rice to the pan, pour in the soy sauce, and stir well to combine all ingredients.
Stir in the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions, mixing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and serve your quick and easy egg fried rice warm!
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some garlic or ginger while cooking the vegetables. You can also substitute tofu or chicken for an added protein boost.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g