Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Easy Prep Favorites
I love whipping up a quick and delicious meal, and this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is one of my favorites. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice, and the whole dish comes together in just a few minutes. Packed with flavor from soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, this fried rice is comforting yet satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a quick main meal, it’s sure to please. Plus, my kids adore helping with the eggs, making it a fun family activity too!
I remember the first time I made egg fried rice on a whim, hoping to create something tasty with what I had in the fridge. I was surprised at how satisfying the result was. The mix of fluffy eggs, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces created a flavor explosion that I couldn’t resist. I’ve adjusted this recipe over time to perfect the balance of textures and flavors.
This dish is great for busy weeknights since it cooks up so quickly. I often use precooked rice, which not only cuts down on cooking time but also makes the rice less sticky. Don’t forget to add some green onions at the end for a fresh crunch!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 10 minutes for a speedy meal solution
- Versatile, as you can add your favorite veggies or proteins
- Perfectly seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil for that authentic taste
Perfecting Your Fried Rice Technique
To achieve that signature fried rice texture, it's important to use day-old rice or properly cooled rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky, which can lead to clumping. If you're using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before using it. This helps to dry it out slightly, making it easier to fry evenly and achieving that desirable, non-clumpy consistency.
When scrambling the eggs, make sure not to overcook them. You want them soft and just set, as they'll continue to cook slightly after being added back into the dish. Use a spatula to gently move the eggs around the pan, allowing them to form soft curds. This technique ensures your eggs remain fluffy and moist, contributing to the overall richness of the fried rice.
Flavor Boosting With Ingredients
The soy sauce is essential not only for flavor but also for the beautiful color it brings to the dish. For an extra depth of flavor, consider using a dark soy sauce in addition to the regular one. This will yield a deeper color and a slightly sweeter taste, enhancing the overall palate of your egg fried rice. My personal favorite is to mix in a dash of oyster sauce for an umami kick, which complements the vegetables beautifully.
Adding fresh ingredients like green onions at the end not only boosts flavor but also adds a delightful crunch and color contrast. For other variations, you can incorporate pre-cooked proteins such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu cooked in the same pan. Just ensure they're heated through before serving, and don’t forget to adjust the seasoning based on any additional ingredients.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing fried rice is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the pan for moisture, and stir-fry over medium heat until heated through, ensuring you maintain that enjoyable texture.
For meal prep, feel free to double the recipe and freeze portions. When freezing, make sure to spread the fried rice into a flat layer in a freezer-safe bag, which allows for quicker defrosting. To reheat from frozen, simply pan-fry it in a little oil over medium heat until thawed and heated through, incorporating a bit more soy sauce or sesame oil if needed for flavor enhancement.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps for a quick and easy meal!
Heat the Oil
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Scramble the Eggs
Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them lightly. Pour the eggs into the pan and scramble until just set, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Combine and Season
Add the cooked rice to the pan, followed by the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything well to combine and heat through.
Finish and Serve
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add the green onions, and mix gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious fried rice!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.
Why Use Sesame Oil?
Sesame oil is a key ingredient in this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice, providing a nutty flavor that elevates the dish beyond basic fried rice. Its unique taste complements the other ingredients beautifully, especially when paired with the saltiness of the soy sauce. When using sesame oil, a little goes a long way, as its flavor is quite potent. I recommend starting with the specified teaspoon and adjusting to taste as you combine the fried rice components.
In addition to flavor, sesame oil has a lower smoke point than other oils. Therefore, it’s advisable to add it towards the end of the cooking process rather than using it for frying. This preserves its aromatic qualities and ensures that you enjoy its full flavor upon serving.
Vegetable Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, particularly with the mixed vegetables. While I recommend a frozen mix of peas, carrots, and corn for convenience, you can swap these for fresh vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli. If you opt for fresh, be sure to cut them into small pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Additionally, you can add ingredients like baby spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
If you’re looking to amp up the vegetable content further, consider adding a handful of bean sprouts just before serving. They add a refreshing crunch and extra texture, making the dish even more delightful. Season your vegetables adequately, especially if using a variety with different water content, to maintain the integrity of the fried rice flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well, though it may require a bit more cooking time and liquid.
→ What other vegetables can be added?
Feel free to include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, depending on your preference.
→ Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can skip the eggs and replace them with tofu or let the vegetables shine on their own.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Cool the fried rice completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love whipping up a quick and delicious meal, and this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is one of my favorites. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice, and the whole dish comes together in just a few minutes. Packed with flavor from soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, this fried rice is comforting yet satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a quick main meal, it’s sure to please. Plus, my kids adore helping with the eggs, making it a fun family activity too!
Created by: Daphne Collins
Recipe Type: Easy Prep Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
How-To Steps
In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them lightly. Pour the eggs into the pan and scramble until just set, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Add the cooked rice to the pan, followed by the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything well to combine and heat through.
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add the green onions, and mix gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g