Shrimp Fried Rice

Quick, Flavorful, and Comforting

Shrimp fried rice is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s fast, flavorful, and deeply satisfying—perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The beauty of fried rice lies in its simplicity: cold rice, sautéed shrimp, crisp vegetables, and scrambled eggs all tossed together in a savory soy-sesame sauce. The shrimp cook in just minutes, and the entire dish comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, shrimp fried rice is a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

A Family Favorite That Never Gets Old

Shrimp fried rice is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The familiar flavors—garlic, ginger, soy sauce—are comforting and universally loved, while the shrimp add a touch of elegance and lean protein. Kids love the colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn, and adults appreciate how filling and balanced the dish is. It’s also easy to customize for picky eaters or dietary needs. Serve it as a main course with a side of steamed greens, or pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for a full Asian-inspired dinner. The one-pan method means you’re not juggling multiple pots, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.

Ingredient Swaps and Creative Additions

Shrimp fried rice is endlessly adaptable. If you don’t have shrimp, you can use chicken, tofu, or even leftover roast pork. Day-old rice is ideal for texture, but freshly cooked rice can work too—just chill it briefly to reduce moisture. For a gluten-free version, swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Want to boost the nutrition? Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds depth, and fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil give it a bright finish. The dish is a canvas—feel free to make it your own.

 

A Meal Prep Hero

Shrimp fried rice is a dream for meal prep. It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to five days and reheats well in a skillet or microwave. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. You can portion it into containers for lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to freeze for longer storage. Just reheat with a splash of soy sauce or broth to revive the texture. Because it’s a complete meal—protein, veggies, and carbs—it’s perfect for busy weeks when you want something satisfying and homemade. It’s also budget-friendly, especially if you’re using leftover rice and frozen vegetables.

Shrimp Fried Rice

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp sesame oil

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 1 lb medium-large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 cup peas

  • ½ cup corn

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • ½ tsp ground ginger

  • 3 large eggs, beaten

  • 4 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)

  • 3 green onions, chopped

  • 4 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

  • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Heat oils in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, flipping halfway. Remove and set aside.

    2. Add peas and corn to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until softened.

    3. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute.

    4. Push vegetables to one side, add eggs to the other, and scramble until cooked.

    5. Add shrimp, rice, green onions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.

    6. Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

    Nutrition Facts

    Based on a 1-cup serving from Nutritionix:

    • Calories: 244

    • Protein: 12g

    • Total Fat: 9.1g (Saturated Fat: 1.2g)

    • Carbohydrates: 28g

    • Fiber: 0.9g

    • Sugar: 1.2g