Simple Egg Fried Rice Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that checks every box—fast, filling, and fantastically flavorful—look no further than this Simple Egg Fried Rice. With minimal prep, a handful of pantry staples, and a skillet, you’ll have an irresistible meal that’s miles tastier than takeout but takes less time than waiting for delivery. Whether you’re using up leftover rice or planning ahead for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into soft, savory, golden perfection—once you try Simple Egg Fried Rice, you may never look at leftovers the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Simple Egg Fried Rice plays its own special role, from the zest of green onions to the comforting heartiness of rice. With just a few fresh or frozen basics, you’ll have a vibrant, colorful bowl that’s all about balance—delicate eggs, crisp vegetables, and crave-worthy seasoning in every bite.
- Cooked White Rice (3 cups, preferably cold and day-old): Chilled rice grains stay perfectly separate and chewy, preventing the dreaded soggy fried rice.
- Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps everything crisp up beautifully, and has a neutral flavor that lets the other ingredients shine.
- Large Eggs (3, beaten): Fluffy scrambled egg pieces are the star that gives this dish its classic charm.
- Green Onions (3, sliced): Add a fresh pop of color and a subtle oniony kick that keeps each bite exciting.
- Mixed Vegetables (1 cup peas, carrots, and corn): Bring sweetness, color, and extra nutrition; feel free to use frozen!
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just a bit transforms the dish with a hint of savoriness that makes it irresistible.
- Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons): The salty backbone that ties all the flavors together—don’t skip it!
- Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Just a drizzle adds incredible fragrance and that signature “fried rice” taste.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): The final touch—season to suit your preferences and round out the flavors.
How to Make Simple Egg Fried Rice
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and watch as they puff up and set. Gently scramble until just cooked through—think soft, fluffy curds rather than firm, dry eggs. Scoop them out onto a plate for now; you’ll add them back later for maximum flavor and texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Pour the remaining tablespoon of oil into your pan. Toss in the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until your kitchen smells amazing and the veggies look bright and tender. If you’re using frozen vegetables, no need to thaw beforehand—they’ll cook up just fine.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
Now for the star of the show: the rice. Add your cold, day-old rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps, pressing down and separating the grains. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes—just until everything is steamy and some bits of rice are starting to get wonderfully crisp and golden.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, merging them back into the rice. Drizzle in your soy sauce and sesame oil, then toss in the sliced green onions. Continue stirring for about a minute to let those flavors meld and the whole dish turn a deliciously uniform golden color. Taste, season with salt and pepper as needed, then serve your Simple Egg Fried Rice right away—hot and fresh from the pan.
How to Serve Simple Egg Fried Rice
Garnishes
Take your Simple Egg Fried Rice to the next level by adding a shower of sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dash of chili flakes for heat. Even a few drops of extra sesame oil or some fresh cilantro can make the flavors pop and give it a touch of restaurant flair.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic as a stand-alone meal but truly shines when paired with your favorite sides. Simple Egg Fried Rice goes perfectly with pan-seared dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or a bowl of miso soup. If you want something heartier, serve alongside stir-fried chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a well-rounded feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by packing the rice into small bowls, then inverting them onto plates for perfectly domed servings. Or, serve your Simple Egg Fried Rice in lettuce cups, making fun, hand-held bites. For an at-home bento box, pack individual portions with steamed edamame, pickles, and extra dipping sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), simply transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. Your Simple Egg Fried Rice will stay fresh for up to three days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
Simple Egg Fried Rice actually freezes beautifully. Let the rice cool completely, then scoop it into freezer bags or containers. Flatten the bags for quick thawing and store them for up to two months. This way, you’re only ever a few minutes from a delicious meal, no matter how busy life gets.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce to restore moisture. A quick zap in the microwave also works—just cover loosely to avoid drying out. Stir occasionally for even heating, and your Simple Egg Fried Rice will taste just as good as when you first made it.
FAQs
Do I have to use day-old rice for Simple Egg Fried Rice?
While day-old rice is ideal for preventing clumps and sogginess, you can use freshly cooked rice in a pinch—just spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool quickly to dry out a bit before stir-frying.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Simple Egg Fried Rice is incredibly versatile. Feel free to toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even leftover roast pork for a more filling main dish.
Which vegetables work best in this dish?
You can use almost any veggies you have on hand—peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach. Fresh or frozen both work well, so use your favorites or whatever needs using up in your fridge.
How can I make my Simple Egg Fried Rice spicy?
If you love a bit of kick, add a squirt of sriracha or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce when you add the soy sauce. For a more subtle heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper will do the trick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make Simple Egg Fried Rice gluten-free, just be sure to use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Double-check that any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something quick, comforting, and endlessly customizable, go ahead and make yourself a skillet of Simple Egg Fried Rice. It’s the kind of happy kitchen magic you’ll want to share—and the best part is, everyone can make it their own. Give it a try and let this humble classic become your new go-to!
Print
Simple Egg Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make a quick and delicious Simple Egg Fried Rice at home with this easy recipe. This Asian-inspired dish is perfect for a speedy weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients
Cooked White Rice:
3 cups
Vegetable Oil:
2 tablespoons
Eggs:
3 large (beaten)
Green Onions:
3, sliced
Mixed Vegetables:
1 cup (peas, carrots, corn)
Garlic:
2 cloves, minced
Soy Sauce:
3 tablespoons
Sesame Oil:
1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper:
To taste
Instructions
- Scramble Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil, scramble beaten eggs, and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add remaining oil, garlic, mixed vegetables, sauté until tender.
- Add Rice: Stir in cold rice, stir-fry until heated through and slightly crisp.
- Combine: Return eggs, add soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, stir for another minute.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and serve hot.
Notes
- Cold, day-old rice works best for this recipe.
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.
- For a spicier version, consider stirring in sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
