Name: Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked day-old rice (white or jasmine preferred); 3 eggs; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup carrots, diced; 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 3 green onions, sliced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fried rice is fast, versatile, and endlessly customizable. It’s a complete meal on its own or the perfect side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired mains. Using day-old rice ensures the perfect texture, while soy sauce and garlic bring bold, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked day-old rice (white or jasmine preferred)
Eggs
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Vegetable oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Carrots, diced
Peas (fresh or frozen)
Green onions, sliced
Salt and black pepper
Optional: protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu

Directions

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
Scramble the eggs until just set, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Add a little more oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and peas until softened.
Stir in the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook until heated through and slightly crisp.
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the rice evenly.
Return the scrambled eggs and stir in green onions.
Adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu.
Spicy Kick: Stir in sriracha or chili flakes.
Veggie-Packed: Include broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-salty twist.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture.
Microwave reheating works too but may soften the texture.
Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

It’s best to use day-old rice for the right texture, but freshly cooked rice can work if cooled and dried slightly.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit meat and stick with vegetables and eggs.

Can I make it without eggs?

Absolutely, just skip the eggs or use scrambled tofu as a substitute.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine or long-grain white rice is ideal for fried rice.

Can I add oyster sauce or hoisin sauce?

Yes, they’ll add extra depth and sweetness.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Use cold, day-old rice and avoid adding too much liquid.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to keep the rice from steaming instead of frying.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just thaw slightly before adding them to the pan.

Is sesame oil necessary?

It adds authentic flavor, but you can omit it if needed.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, fried rice reheats very well and is perfect for weekly meal prep.

Conclusion

Freakin’ Fantastic Fried Rice is the ultimate go-to recipe for quick, flavorful meals. Whether served as a side or a main, this customizable dish is a delicious way to use up leftover rice and create something satisfying, fresh, and flavorful every time