Description
Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup diced carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon black sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Push eggs to one side of the pan.
3. Add garlic, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until softened.
4. Increase heat to high and add cooked rice. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, breaking up clumps.
5. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
6. Return cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Cook for another minute.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and black sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect fried rice. First, ensure your rice is cold and dry; day-old rice is ideal. Pat your shrimp completely dry to avoid steaming. Heat your wok or large skillet until very hot before adding the first tablespoon of oil. Cook the shrimp in a single layer to get a good sear, then remove. For the eggs, pour them into the hot oil and let them set slightly before scrambling for fluffy curds. When stir-frying the garlic and vegetables, keep them moving to prevent burning. The key step is adding the cold rice on high heat, pressing it against the hot pan to dry it out and create a slight crispness before adding the sauces.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be tailored to any meal. For a complete dinner, serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. To elevate presentation, serve in a bowl topped with extra green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a lime wedge for squeezing. For a spicy kick, offer chili oil or sriracha on the side. It also makes an excellent filling for lettuce wraps, using large butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
How-to Summary
Quickly summarize the process: Cook shrimp in hot oil and set aside. Scramble eggs in the same pan and push aside. Stir-fry garlic and vegetables briefly. Crank up the heat, add cold rice, and stir-fry until hot and separated. Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices. Return shrimp to the pan, toss everything together, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
It’s not recommended. Fresh rice is too moist and will become mushy. Day-old, refrigerated rice is drier and fries perfectly.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
Chicken, tofu, or even chopped ham are excellent substitutes. Ensure they are cooked through before setting aside in the recipe.
My fried rice turned out soggy. What happened?
This is usually due to rice that is too moist, overcrowding the pan, or not using high enough heat to evaporate excess moisture quickly.
Is there a low-sodium alternative to soy sauce?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos. Adjust the quantity to taste.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or chopped broccoli work well. Add harder vegetables earlier in the stir-fry process to ensure they cook through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm, freshly cooked rice, which leads to clumpy, soggy fried rice.
- Not prepping all ingredients before starting, as stir-frying happens too fast to chop as you go.
- Overcrowding the pan, which steams the ingredients instead of frying them.
- Adding the soy sauce directly to the center of the pan; instead, drizzle it around the sides so it sizzles and coats everything evenly.
- Stirring the rice constantly. Let it sit for 30-second intervals against the hot pan to develop a nice texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a masterclass in efficient, flavorful cooking. By understanding the core techniques, like using day-old rice and high-heat stir-frying, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home in minutes. It’s a fantastic template for cleaning out the fridge, adaptable to your favorite proteins and vegetables. With this guide and the tips provided, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and consistently whip up a satisfying, delicious meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.