Simple Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Among the countless dishes I've tried, shrimp with rice stands out with its extraordinary charm. It's not just an ordinary combo. Whether you're a busy professional needing a quick meal or a kitchen novice wanting to impress, this recipe is perfect for you.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Main Ingredients:

Leftover Rice: It's the foundation of fried rice.

Shrimp: Adds a delicious, fresh taste.

Green Peas: Provides color and a refreshing texture.

Sausage Bits: Enhances the flavor and texture.

Eggs: Prevents the rice from clumping and adds aroma.

Seasonings:

Cooking Wine: Removes the fishy smell and adds flavor to the shrimp and rice.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste.

Chicken Bouillon: Boosts the umami.

Scallion Oil: Elevates the aroma.

Substitutions:

Shrimp Alternative: For those who dislike seafood or are allergic, substitute with chicken or ham pieces.

Green Peas Alternative: Corn kernels or diced carrots can be used for added color and texture.

Sausage Bits Alternative: Diced bacon or char siu can be used based on personal preference.

Egg Alternative: If allergic, omit the eggs and increase the stir-frying time to ensure the rice grains remain separate.

Cooking Wine Alternative: A small amount of lemon juice or white vinegar can be used to eliminate any fishy smell.

Scallion Oil Alternative: Sesame oil or olive oil can partially replace scallion oil to enhance the aroma.

What Vegetables Can You Add to Shrimp Fried Rice to Enhance Flavor

To make your shrimp fried rice more flavorful, consider adding a variety of vegetables:

Broccoli:

Cut broccoli into small florets and blanch them before adding to the fried rice. It has a slight sweetness and its vibrant green color makes the dish more appetizing.

Onions:

Dice the onions and sauté them until fragrant before adding other ingredients. Onions add a unique pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Corn Kernels:

Sweet corn kernels provide a burst of sweetness and a juicy texture, adding a delightful surprise in every bite.

Garlic Scapes:

Cut garlic scapes into small pieces. They retain a slight crunch during cooking, adding a different texture to the tender shrimp and rice.

Bell Peppers:

Use red, yellow, or green bell peppers, diced into small pieces. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a mild sweetness and a refreshing crunch.

Tips for Success

Ingredient Selection:

Shrimp: Use fresh shrimp if possible. If using frozen shrimp, choose high-quality ones and thaw them naturally. Marinate the shrimp with salt, pepper, and egg white for 15-20 minutes to make them more flavorful and tender.

Rice: Day-old rice is ideal because it has less moisture and the grains are more distinct, preventing clumping. If using freshly Leftover Rice, let it cool to evaporate some of the moisture.

Cooking Techniques:

Cooking Shrimp: Use a hot pan with cold oil to prevent sticking and to lock in moisture. Avoid frequent stirring; let one side cook until it changes color before flipping. Cook until the shrimp curl and turn pink, then set aside.

Stir-Frying Rice and Vegetables: Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Blanch broccoli to soften it slightly, and add bell peppers later since they cook quickly. When adding rice, break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry over medium-low heat to ensure even heating.

Seasoning:

Basic Seasoning: Salt is essential. Add a bit of soy sauce for umami. If you like it spicy, add some chili sauce or chili powder, but not too much to avoid overpowering the natural flavors.

Final Touch: Before serving, sprinkle some chopped green onions for added aroma and garnish. This will make your shrimp fried rice both delicious and visually appealing.

With these tips, you can create a delicious and flavorful shrimp fried rice!