The Ultimate Easy Fried Rice Recipe

Master the art of perfect fried rice with this simple yet delicious recipe. Using fresh or leftover rice, this versatile dish is studded with colorful vegetables and packed with flavor. Learn the secrets to achieving that coveted restaurant-quality texture and taste right in your own kitchen.

The Key to Irresistible Fried Rice

Fried rice is a beloved dish that transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or craving a quick and tasty dinner, this recipe has you covered. We’ll guide you through the process of creating fried rice with perfectly separated grains, a slight chew, and a balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.

Choosing the Right Rice

The foundation of great fried rice lies in selecting the appropriate type of rice. While many varieties can work, here are the top choices for achieving that ideal texture:

• Jasmine rice: This fragrant Thai variety offers the perfect balance of stickiness and individual grains.
• Medium-grain white rice: The classic choice in Chinese restaurants, it provides excellent texture without overpowering other flavors.
• Sushi rice: For those who enjoy a chewier texture, short-grain sushi rice can create a delightful result.

The Great Rice Debate: Fresh vs. Day-Old

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to wait a day to make great fried rice. Here are your options, ranked by preference:

• Fanned rice: Spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and place under a fan for about an hour to achieve the ideal moisture level.
• Fresh-cooked rice: Spread hot rice on a plate or tray and allow it to steam off excess moisture for a few minutes before frying.
• Day-old rice: While it works well, you’ll need to break up clumps before cooking and work quickly to prevent the rice from becoming too hard.

Essential Tips for Fried Rice Success

• Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Use a wok for the best results, as it provides different heat zones and makes tossing easier.
• Keep your pan extremely hot to achieve that coveted wok hei flavor.
• Cook in small batches to ensure each grain gets properly fried.
• Go easy on the sauces to maintain the rice’s texture and let its flavor shine.
• Add a fresh element at the end, such as green onions or peas, for a pop of color and flavor.

Easy Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (12 ounces; 350g; see note)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable or canola oil, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (4 ounces; 115g)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into small dice (3 ounces; 85g)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (1 ounce; 30g)
• 2 medium cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons; 5g)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) toasted sesame oil
• Kosher salt and ground white pepper
• 1 large egg
• 4 ounces (115g) frozen peas

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: If using day-old rice, break it up into individual grains. For fresh rice, spread it on a tray to cool for 5 minutes.
2. Fry the rice: Heat 1/2 tablespoon oil in a wok over high heat until smoking. Add half the rice, stirring and tossing until toasted and chewy, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with remaining rice.
3. Cook the vegetables: Return all rice to the wok, pushing it up the sides. Add 1/2 tablespoon oil in the center. Stir-fry onion, carrot, scallions, and garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss with rice.
4. Season the dish: Add soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
5. Incorporate the egg: Push rice aside, add remaining oil, and scramble the egg. Mix with the rice.
6. Finish and serve: Add frozen peas, tossing until thawed and rice is separated. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade fried rice!

Notes

For best results, use Chinese-style medium-grain rice, jasmine rice, or sushi rice. Rice can be freshly cooked and cooled for 5 minutes, or refrigerated for 12 hours to 3 days.