Egg Fried Rice

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Simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, Egg Fried Rice is a go-to comfort dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout straight into your kitchen. It balances the rich taste of scrambled eggs with the umami of soy sauce, and the gentle crunch of vegetables like carrots and peas, all tied together with perfectly stir-fried rice.

Whether you’re using up leftover rice or whipping it up fresh, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and impromptu dinners. It’s quick to make, filling, and so easy to adapt—add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein, or toss in whatever veggies are on hand.

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What Kind of Rice Should I Use for Egg Fried Rice?

Cold, day-old rice is ideal for Egg Fried Rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can become mushy during stir-frying. Long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati work best because they stay separate and fluffy. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

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Ingredients for the Egg Fried Rice

Rice – The star of the dish. Day-old, cold rice ensures a perfect texture without clumping.

Eggs – Provide protein and a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the rice.

Green Peas – Bring a pop of color and a bit of sweetness to balance the umami.

Carrots – Add texture and a subtle earthy flavor while making the dish more nutritious.

Soy Sauce – Infuses the rice with that iconic, savory depth. Go for light soy sauce for flavor without overpowering saltiness.

Sesame Oil – A small amount adds aromatic richness and a traditional flavor touch.

Garlic – Adds an aromatic base note that enhances the overall flavor.

Green Onions – Provide a fresh, slightly sharp contrast that balances the richness of the egg and rice.

Oil for Frying – Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil to cook the eggs and vegetables evenly.

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How To Make the Egg Fried Rice

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble quickly, breaking them into soft, fluffy curds. Remove them from the pan once cooked and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

Add diced carrots to the pan and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Toss in the green peas and stir until they’re heated through.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now add your cold, day-old rice. Break it up with your spatula and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, letting it get lightly toasted. Make sure everything is well mixed and heated evenly.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Drizzle in soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil. Stir well to coat all the rice. Then, add the cooked eggs back into the pan and fold them through the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Green Onions

Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh crunch and a burst of color.

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How to Serve and Store Egg Fried Rice

Egg Fried Rice is best served piping hot, right off the stove, with a sprinkle of fresh green onions or even a dash of chili oil for an extra kick. Pair it with dishes like stir-fried tofu, dumplings, or grilled meats for a complete meal.

To store leftovers, let the rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to restore moisture and revive the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my fried rice from getting soggy?

Always use day-old, chilled rice. Fresh rice has too much moisture and can become mushy when stir-fried.

Can I make egg fried rice without soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option or skip it entirely and season with salt and other sauces like oyster or hoisin for variation.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. They have high smoke points and won’t overpower the flavor.

Can I freeze egg fried rice?

Yes, it freezes well. Pack it in freezer-safe bags or containers and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu when you reintroduce the scrambled eggs to the pan.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add chili sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced fresh chilies if you like heat.

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Want More Rice-Based Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Egg Fried Rice, you’ll probably enjoy these other tasty staples:

• Vegetable Stir-Fried Rice for a meatless option loaded with color and flavor.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice if you’re craving something rich and savory with a seafood twist.
• Kimchi Fried Rice for bold, spicy flavors that wake up your taste buds.
• Coconut Jasmine Rice as a fragrant, lightly sweet side that pairs beautifully with grilled dishes.
• Mushroom Fried Rice for earthy depth and a vegetarian-friendly meal.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in chicken or add some heat? Maybe a dash of fish sauce for an umami kick?

I love hearing how others customize their versions. Questions are welcome too—let’s swap tips and tricks to level up home cooking.

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