Introduction
Egg fried rice is one of the most popular and easy-to-make dishes in the world. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for using leftover rice. Whether you’re cooking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, egg fried rice is always a hit. Its golden, fluffy eggs mixed with soft rice, fresh vegetables, and a hint of soy sauce make it both tasty and satisfying.
The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients. With just a few basic items from your kitchen, you can whip up a restaurant-style egg fried rice in under 20 minutes. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—you can add chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies to make it your own. In this guide, we’ll show you a step-by-step process to make perfect egg fried rice every time.
Ingredients – Egg Fried Rice
Here’s everything you need to make Easy Egg Fried Rice for 2–3 servings:
- 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably cold or leftover rice)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots (or fresh vegetables)
- 2–3 tablespoons of soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2–3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Optional ingredients for extra flavor:
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste or finely grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha (if you like it spicy)
Step by Step Process – Egg Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before starting, make sure all your ingredients are ready. Cold rice works best for fried rice because it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and chop your onions, garlic, and green onions.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring gently until scrambled. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and slightly golden. If you’re using ginger, add it at this stage. Then, add the peas and carrots (or any vegetables you like) and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir everything well so the rice mixes evenly with the vegetables.
Step 5: Season the Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using). Sprinkle salt and pepper. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Add the Scrambled Eggs
Now, add the cooked scrambled eggs back into the pan. Gently fold them into the rice, making sure they are evenly distributed. Continue stirring for another minute.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Serve your delicious egg fried rice hot. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 cups | 400 | 8g | 88g | 0.8g |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 | 12g | 1g | 10g |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp | 240 | 0g | 0g | 28g |
| Onion | 1 small | 45 | 1g | 11g | 0g |
| Peas and carrots | 1/2 cup | 60 | 2g | 10g | 0g |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | 20 | 2g | 2g | 0g |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | 40 | 0g | 0g | 4.5g |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | 10 | 0.5g | 2g | 0g |
| Green onions | 2–3 stalks | 10 | 0.5g | 2g | 0g |
| Total Approx. | 965 | 25g | 116g | 42g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use freshly cooked rice for egg fried rice?
Yes, you can. However, cold or leftover rice is preferred because it is drier and less likely to turn mushy when frying.
Q2: Can I make egg fried rice without oil?
It’s possible, but oil adds flavor and helps prevent the rice from sticking. You can use a non-stick pan or try a small amount of water as a substitute.
Q3: Can I add meat to egg fried rice?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or beef can be added. Cook the meat first, then follow the same steps for the rice and eggs.
Q4: How can I make it healthier?
Use brown rice instead of white rice, add more vegetables, and reduce the amount of oil and soy sauce.
Q5: How long can I store leftover egg fried rice?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Final Thoughts
Egg fried rice is a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that anyone can make at home. With just a few ingredients and 15–20 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that rivals your favorite takeout. The best part is that you can customize it with vegetables, meats, or even your favorite sauces to suit your taste.
Next time you have leftover rice, try this easy egg fried rice recipe—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so tasty. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, egg fried rice is always a winner.
