Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Quick & Simple
I love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm in a rush but still want something satisfying and delicious. It's incredible how quickly this dish comes together, utilizing leftover rice and a few simple ingredients from my fridge. The combination of fluffy eggs, vibrant vegetables, and savory soy sauce creates a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious. In just 10 minutes, I can whip up a wholesome dish that rivals takeout, making it my go-to choice for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
When I first decided to make egg fried rice, I was amazed at how a handful of ingredients could create such a delightful dish. I experimented with different vegetables and flavorings over the years, and I found that keeping it simple often yields the best results. Using leftover rice not only saves time but also gives the dish that perfect texture that freshly cooked rice can't match.
To make this recipe foolproof, I suggest prepping all your ingredients ahead of time. This way, you can focus on the cooking process and ensure everything comes together quickly. The key to a great egg fried rice is to stir-fry on high heat, allowing the rice to get a little crispy while the eggs stay fluffy. Trust me, once you master this dish, it will become a staple in your home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time that fits perfectly into busy schedules
- Versatile ingredients that allow you to customize with your favorites
- Rich flavor enhanced by soy sauce and fresh veggies
- Kid-friendly and appealing to all ages
The Importance of Cold Rice
Using cold, day-old rice is crucial for achieving the best texture in your Egg Fried Rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clump together, making it difficult to fry properly. By refrigerating cooked rice overnight, you allow the grains to dry out slightly, creating the ideal firm texture that will separate easily during cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can spread the freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly before using it in this recipe.
Another key benefit of using cold rice is its ability to absorb flavors better. When you mix it with the soy sauce and veggies, the rice will soak up those delicious savory notes more effectively than warm rice would. This results in a more flavorful dish overall, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
Customizing Your Fried Rice
One of the best aspects of this Quick & Easy Egg Fried Rice is its versatility. While the recipe calls for mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn, you can easily swap in your favorites. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even leafy greens like spinach can make delightful additions. Just be mindful of cooking times; harder vegetables like bell peppers may require a slightly longer stir-fry before adding the eggs.
For an extra protein boost, consider incorporating diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Just add them to the pan after stir-frying the vegetables so they heat through without becoming overcooked. This adaptability helps you utilize what’s already in your fridge, making the dish not only quick but resourceful.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before starting:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have everything ready, you can begin cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your fried rice:
Prepare the Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside. Make sure your cooked rice is cold to prevent clumping.
Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Scramble the Eggs
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the whisked eggs into the empty side and scramble until just set.
Combine Everything
Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour the soy sauce over the mixture, and stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Finish With Green Onions
Stir in the sliced green onion and taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately for the best taste.
Pro Tips
- For the best results, use day-old rice as it is drier and fries better. Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp for an even heartier meal!
Serving Suggestions
This Egg Fried Rice makes a fantastic standalone dish, but it can also be paired beautifully with other Asian-inspired dishes. For instance, serve it alongside teriyaki chicken or crispy spring rolls for a more comprehensive meal. Adding a side of fresh cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil can brighten the meal and add a refreshing crunch.
If you're serving it to guests, consider garnishing your fried rice with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can elevate the dish, giving your guests the option to customize the heat level to their liking.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly can help maintain the flavors and texture of your fried rice. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it can last up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in portions; it will stay good for up to a month.
When reheating, aim for a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking, and stir frequently to ensure even heating. You should be able to reheat your fried rice in about 5–7 minutes, making it taste fresh rather than soggy from the microwave.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?
Fresh rice can work, but it’s best to cool it down and spread it out on a baking sheet to dry a bit before using.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preference!
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari in place of soy sauce.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat well before eating.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm in a rush but still want something satisfying and delicious. It's incredible how quickly this dish comes together, utilizing leftover rice and a few simple ingredients from my fridge. The combination of fluffy eggs, vibrant vegetables, and savory soy sauce creates a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious. In just 10 minutes, I can whip up a wholesome dish that rivals takeout, making it my go-to choice for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
Created by: Veronica Miles
Recipe Type: Quick & Simple
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside. Make sure your cooked rice is cold to prevent clumping.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the whisked eggs into the empty side and scramble until just set.
Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour the soy sauce over the mixture, and stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Stir in the sliced green onion and taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Extra Tips
- For the best results, use day-old rice as it is drier and fries better. Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp for an even heartier meal!
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