If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this Better Than Takeout Fried Rice recipe is just what you need! It’s easy to make, packed with flavors, and can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for using leftover rice, this dish brings the taste of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
Making fried rice at home is not only healthier than takeout, but it also allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking. You can adjust the flavors, toss in any veggies you have on hand, or make it vegetarian or protein-packed. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and save money!
How to Make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preparing the Eggs
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. This will only take a few minutes! When done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 2: Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onions and garlic. Stir-fry these until they are fragrant and the onions are translucent, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Adding Carrots and Peas
Next, add the diced carrots to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften. Stir in the thawed peas and cook for another minute to warm them through.
Step 4: Mixing in the Rice
Now it’s rice time! Add the chilled rice to the skillet. Break apart any clumps with your spatula and stir-fry the rice until it’s heated through and starts to brown slightly, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Combining Everything
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix everything well. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and toasted sesame oil (if desired). Stir everything to coat the rice and veggies evenly with the sauces.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finally, stir in the sliced green onions and season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last good mix and then remove it from the heat.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Better Than Takeout Fried Rice immediately and enjoy! It’s perfect as a main dish or as a side to your favorite Asian cuisine.
How to Serve Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
You can serve fried rice on its own or as a side dish with any Asian meal. It pairs well with chicken, beef, shrimp, or even a crispy spring roll. Garnish with extra green onions for that fresh touch!
How to Store Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
To store leftover fried rice, let it cool down and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s in a well-sealed container to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice as it prevents the dish from getting mushy.
- Feel free to add your favorite protein, like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Make sure to preheat your skillet or wok to ensure even cooking.
Variation
You can easily change this fried rice recipe by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or corn. You can also switch out the protein or make it vegetarian by omitting the eggs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of rice for this fried rice recipe?
A: Jasmine rice is best for its flavor and texture, but you can use any type of cooked rice you have.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the eggs and any meat, and add more vegetables or tofu for protein.
Q: Can I make this fried rice spicy?
A: Yes! Add some chili sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Better Than Takeout Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup diced carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2-3 pieces green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onions and garlic. Stir-fry these until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften. Stir in the thawed peas and cook for another minute.
- Add the chilled rice to the skillet. Break apart any clumps and stir-fry until heated through and starting to brown slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and toasted sesame oil (if using), stirring to coat the rice and veggies.
- Stir in the sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy, either as a main dish or side to your favorite Asian cuisine.
