Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Looking for a quick and delicious shrimp fried rice recipe? This easy dish combines tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed together with a savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this flavorful stir-fry is packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced and satisfying option. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and chicken broth, you can make this shrimp fried rice at home in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to please everyone.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked white long-grain rice (see notes)
• 2 cups chicken broth

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon honey (or substitute with brown sugar)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Stir Fry:

• 1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or substitute with olive or canola oil)
• 1 lb. uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 eggs, whisked well
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3/4 cup frozen peas
• 3/4 cup frozen carrots
• 3-4 green onions, diced

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Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce and Marinate the Shrimp

1. Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Thaw shrimp completely if frozen, pat dry, and remove shells, tails, and veins if necessary. Sprinkle with paprika.
3. Place shrimp in a medium bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the sauce mixture. Set aside to marinate.

Cook the Rice

1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Add the rice, ensuring it is fully submerged. Return to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it steam for 15 minutes.
2. Check if the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If not, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Optionally, let the rice sit off the heat with the lid on for 10 minutes to achieve a fluffy texture and release any stuck grains.
4. Spread the cooked rice onto a tray and refrigerate until completely cooled. A dry consistency is ideal for fried rice.

Scramble the Eggs

1. Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the whisked eggs and scramble until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Stir Fry

1. Heat oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
2. Lower heat to medium and add the wine. Deglaze the pan by scraping the bottom and sides with a silicone spatula. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in garlic, peas, and carrots, cooking for 1 minute (frozen vegetables are fine).
4. Add the chilled rice and remaining sauce. Increase heat to medium-high and toss continuously for about 3 minutes until the rice absorbs the sauce and browns.
5. Reduce heat to medium and fold in shrimp, scrambled eggs, and green onions. Toss until heated through. Remove from heat and serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Flavorful: A restaurant-quality dish in under an hour.
• Balanced Ingredients: A perfect blend of protein, vegetables, and savory flavors.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Tips

• Chill the Rice: Cold, dry rice fries better and prevents clumping.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook just until pink and slightly firm.
• Prep Ingredients: Have all components ready before starting the stir fry.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for variety.
• Rice Alternatives: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover rice?
A: Yes, day-old rice works best for fried rice recipes.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Omit the shrimp and substitute with tofu or additional vegetables.

Q: What type of shrimp should I use?
A: Medium to large shrimp, fresh or frozen, both work well.

Serving Suggestions

Pair shrimp fried rice with spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. Add a drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Additional Ideas

• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Garnish: Top with cilantro or a wedge of lime for freshness.
• Meal Prep: Portion leftovers into containers for quick weekday lunches.