Egg Fried Rice is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed as a quick meal or a flavorful side dish. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can transform leftover rice into a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is particularly special to me because it was one of the first dishes I learned to cook. My mother taught me how to make it on a lazy Sunday afternoon, emphasizing the importance of using day-old rice to achieve the perfect texture. Now, it’s my go-to recipe when I need to whip up something delicious in a hurry.
Ingredients
2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
2 eggs
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1/2 cup of mixed vegetables (such as diced carrots, peas, and corn)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Cook the Rice: If you don’t have day-old rice, cook 2 cups of rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly. Using day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and helps achieve a better texture in the fried rice.
Dice the Vegetables: Dice the carrots and prepare the mixed vegetables. You can use fresh, frozen, or even leftover vegetables.
Mince the Garlic: Mince 2 cloves of garlic to add a fragrant depth to the dish.
Beat the Eggs: Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them lightly.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Scramble the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Scramble them until fully cooked, breaking them into small pieces. Once done, remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables
Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. If you’re using frozen vegetables, make sure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice and stir-fry it with the vegetables. Continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and begins to get slightly crispy.
Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the Eggs: Push the rice and vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the scrambled eggs into the empty space.
Scramble the Eggs: Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed for a few seconds until they begin to set. Then, gently scramble them with a spatula and mix them into the rice and vegetables.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Add Soy Sauce: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice. Toss everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the soy sauce.
Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a bit more flavor, you can add additional soy sauce or even a splash of sesame oil.
Stir-Fry Until Heated: Continue to stir-fry the rice for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that everything is evenly heated and well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer to Plates: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the egg fried rice to serving plates.
Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. These garnishes add a fresh flavor and a bit of crunch.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Options: Add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Cook these before adding the vegetables.
Vegetable Choices: Use any vegetables you like such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
Spice It Up: Add a bit of chili paste or sriracha if you prefer a spicy kick.
Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the salt accordingly.
Herbs and Aromatics: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Tips for the Perfect Fried Rice
Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
High Heat: Cooking over high heat helps to give the rice a nice texture and flavor.
Minimal Stirring: Allow the rice to sit in the skillet for short intervals without stirring to help it crisp up.
Conclusion
Simple Egg Fried Rice is a dish that is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand. The combination of tender rice, fresh vegetables, and savory scrambled eggs, all brought together with a splash of soy sauce, creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
This recipe is appealing because it’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a late-night snack, egg fried rice fits the bill perfectly.
In summary, this Simple Egg Fried Rice recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s enjoyable to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Gather your ingredients, follow these detailed instructions, and savor the delightful flavors of homemade egg fried rice.
