Introduction

Chinese fried rice with shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare, this dish is a favorite in many households and is a great way to use up leftover rice. With succulent shrimp and colorful vegetables, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– Cooked white rice (day-old works best) – 4 cups
– Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – 1 pound
– Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
– Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
– Onion (chopped) – 1 medium
– Carrots (diced) – 1 medium
– Peas (fresh or frozen) – 1 cup
– Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
– Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
– Eggs (lightly beaten) – 2
– Green onions (sliced) – for garnish
– Salt and pepper – to taste

Prep Time

Preparation time for this delicious dish is relatively quick, taking approximately 10-15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is about 10-15 minutes, making the total time for this recipe around 25-30 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all necessary ingredients. This includes cooked rice that has been cooled, shrimp or prawns that are deveined and shelled, and any vegetables you wish to include, such as peas and carrots.

Heat the Wok

Preheat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to become hot before adding any ingredients to ensure proper stir-frying.

Add Oil

Pour in vegetable oil, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the wok evenly. This will help prevent the ingredients from sticking.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp or prawns to the hot oil. Stir-fry them until they turn pink and opaque, usually taking about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the wok and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in your chopped vegetables. Stir-fry them until they are tender yet still crisp, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Add minced garlic and ginger to the wok, stirring quickly to release their aroma. This step should take no more than 30 seconds to a minute to avoid burning.

Add the Rice

Introduce the cooled cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with a spatula, stirring continuously to mix with the vegetables and aromatics.

Season the Rice

Pour in soy sauce and any additional seasonings like sesame oil or oyster sauce. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the flavors.

Reintroduce the Shrimp

Add the cooked shrimp or prawns back into the wok. Stir everything together, ensuring that the shrimp is evenly dispersed throughout the fried rice.

Finish with Scallions

Finally, sprinkle in sliced scallions, giving the rice one last good mix. This adds freshness and color to the dish.

Serve Hot

Remove the fried rice from the heat and serve it hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement other meals.

Notes

Use Day-Old Rice

For the best texture, use rice that has been cooked and refrigerated the day before. This helps the grains remain separate and prevents muddiness.

Protein Options

Feel free to mix and match proteins. Chicken, beef, or tofu can be used in place of shrimp for variety.

Customization

You can customize this fried rice by adding other preferred vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or green beans.

Spice Level

For added heat, consider incorporating chili paste or fresh chilies during the stir-frying process.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-frying

Stir-frying is essential for achieving the perfect texture in fried rice. Use high heat and keep the ingredients moving to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Properly cooking rice

Use day-old rice for best results, as it’s less moist and prevents clumping. Freshly cooked rice retains too much moisture and results in a soggy dish.

Marinating shrimp

Marinate shrimp briefly to enhance their flavor. A simple mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil can add depth and complement the dish.

Using the right wok

A well-seasoned wok ensures high heat retention and even cooking. If available, a carbon steel wok is preferred for its ability to achieve a good sear.

Flavor layering

Add ingredients in stages to build flavor. Start with aromatics, followed by proteins, and finish with vegetables and sauces for a balanced taste.

FAQ

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Yes, leftover rice is recommended as it is drier and helps achieve the desired texture.

What type of shrimp is best for fried rice?

Any type of shrimp can work, but medium to large shrimp offer the best texture and flavor.

Can I add vegetables to my fried rice?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance nutrition and flavor.

How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure the rice is cold and day-old, and avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking to achieve the right consistency.

Is it possible to make fried rice without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Enjoying a delicious plate of Chinese Fried Rice with Shrimp (Prawns) is not just about the satisfying taste, but also the versatility of this dish. It can serve as a delightful main course or a fantastic side. The balance of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a favorite for many, providing a complete culinary experience that can easily be adapted to suit personal preferences.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Fried Rice

A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried with rice, perfect for a hearty vegetarian option.

Chicken Fried Rice

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Beef Fried Rice

Tender beef strips combined with rice and aromatic seasonings for a robust flavor that will satisfy meat lovers.

Seafood Fried Rice

A medley of shrimp, scallops, and calamari stir-fried with rice and vegetables for a taste of the ocean.

Pineapple Fried Rice

A tropical twist with diced pineapple, cashews, and shrimp or chicken, offering a sweet and savory combination.

Egg Fried Rice

Simple yet delicious, this version features scrambled eggs and a hint of green onions for extra flavor.

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A spicy and tangy take on fried rice, incorporating kimchi for a kick and extra depth of flavor.

Curried Fried Rice

Infused with curry powder, this dish offers a unique flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a hint of spice.

Herbed Fried Rice

Cooked with fresh herbs like basil and cilantro, this light and fragrant dish can be a refreshing change from traditional fried rice.