Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Fast & Delicious
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice whenever I'm in a hurry but craving something delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking method, I can whip this up in just 10 minutes. It's a fantastic way to use leftover rice, and the eggs add a lovely richness to the dish. Plus, I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile meal option that's both satisfying and flavorful.
When I first tried making fried rice, I was surprised at how adaptable and quick it could be! Using day-old rice really enhances the texture, but I've found that even fresh rice works in a pinch. The key is to keep the rice grains separated as they fry.
As I perfected my technique, I learned that scrambling the eggs separately and folding them in at the end keeps them fluffy. This little tip really makes a difference in the overall texture of the dish, and I love how it simplifies the cooking process!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
- Flexibility to use leftovers and any preferred veggies
- Eggs add richness and protein for a filling meal
Perfecting Your Egg Fried Rice
Getting the texture of your egg fried rice just right is crucial to achieving that satisfying bite. When scrambling the eggs, be sure to cook them on medium heat to avoid browning; you want them fluffy and yellow without any burnt bits. By removing them from the skillet promptly once cooked, you prevent them from becoming overcooked when combined with the rice later on. Set them aside while you prepare the vegetables for the best results.
Using day-old rice is essential for a successful fried rice dish. Freshly cooked rice contains moisture, which can lead to mushy fried rice. If you don't have day-old rice, make sure to cool freshly cooked rice thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. Spread it out on a baking sheet for a few minutes and then refrigerate it. This step helps remove excess moisture, ensuring a better texture in your final dish.
Vegetable Variations and Flavor Boosts
While mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn create a colorful and nutritious dish, don't hesitate to get creative with your choices. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even snap peas can enhance both the flavor and the nutrition profile of your egg fried rice. Remember to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking, and consider using frozen vegetables for convenience, just adding them to the skillet directly without thawing.
If you're looking to elevate the flavor, various sauces can be a great addition. A splash of sesame oil adds depth and a nutty aroma, while a dash of oyster sauce enhances umami. For a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil right at the end. These tweaks can make your dish uniquely yours and adaptable to any flavor preference.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a quick and easy meal:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Have everything ready for a delightful cooking experience!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a scrumptious fried rice:
Scramble the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.
Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir everything well, breaking up any clumps of rice.
Combine Everything
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix until evenly distributed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy.
Finish and Serve
Stir in the chopped green onion and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Your delicious egg fried rice is ready to savor!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a dash of sesame oil at the end. Feel free to include protein like diced chicken or shrimp if you want to elevate the dish further!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about this egg fried rice is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the mixed vegetables and scrambled eggs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, just add them to the heated rice in the pan—this saves time during busier meal prep nights. Just be sure to separate the vegetables and eggs during storage to maintain their textures.
If you're looking to store leftover fried rice, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for about 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for longer storage. When reheating, stoves are preferable for best texture—heat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through and, if needed, splash a little water or oil to avoid sticking.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe easily scales up or down based on your needs. If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the cooking methods the same. A larger skillet or wok will help accommodate the increased volume without compromising on even cooking. Just be mindful of not overcrowding the pan when frying the vegetables and rice, which can lead to steaming rather than frying.
For smaller portions, you can halve the ingredients without changing the cooking technique. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the vegetables and rice to avoid undercooking. Adjusting the seasonings according to taste is also key when scaling up or down; always taste as you go to ensure the right balance of flavors in your final dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work great and save time since they are pre-chopped.
→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Day-old rice is ideal because it's less sticky. However, freshly cooked rice can also work if cooled properly.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice whenever I'm in a hurry but craving something delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking method, I can whip this up in just 10 minutes. It's a fantastic way to use leftover rice, and the eggs add a lovely richness to the dish. Plus, I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile meal option that's both satisfying and flavorful.
Created by: Rhea Bennett
Recipe Type: Fast & Delicious
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir everything well, breaking up any clumps of rice.
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix until evenly distributed. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy.
Stir in the chopped green onion and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a dash of sesame oil at the end. Feel free to include protein like diced chicken or shrimp if you want to elevate the dish further!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g