If you crave a quick, satisfying meal that bursts with flavor and comfort, this Egg Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It transforms simple pantry staples into a colorful, hearty, and fragrant dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of fluffy rice, tender scrambled eggs, crisp vegetables, and umami-packed seasonings that come together effortlessly in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking solo or feeding a crowd, this recipe is the ultimate go-to for deliciously easy weeknight dinners or midday pick-me-ups.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create that signature texture, vibrant color, and scrumptious flavor we all love in Egg Fried Rice Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender eggs to the aromatic five-spice powder, making this dish delightfully balanced and appetizing.
- 4 large eggs: The star protein that adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish when scrambled perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons peanut, vegetable, or olive oil, divided: Essential for cooking with the right amount of non-stick magic and flavor boost.
- 1 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion): Adds a mild sweetness and subtle crunch that elevates the rice’s depth.
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups diced mixed vegetables (bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, etc.): Provides color, crunch, and freshness to every forkful.
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions, white and green parts divided: Offers a pleasant mild onion flavor and vibrant green garnish.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the natural flavors harmoniously.
- 4 cups cooked overnight jasmine rice: Using day-old rice helps achieve the perfect fluffy texture without sogginess.
- 2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Delivers that irresistible umami punch and savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder: Infuses subtle warmth and aromatic complexity to the dish.
- Dash of ground white pepper (optional): Adds a gentle spicy note without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: The finishing touch that gives the recipe its signature nutty aroma and taste.
How to Make Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Beat and Scramble the Eggs
Start by cracking the eggs into a small bowl and giving them a good whisk until smooth and consistent. Heat a tablespoon of your chosen oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, pour in the eggs and scramble them quickly for about a minute until just cooked but still tender. Transfer these fluffy eggs to a plate and turn off the heat. This ensures the eggs remain soft and don’t overcook later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Vegetables
Grab your wok or a large skillet and heat the remaining two tablespoons of oil over high heat. Toss in the diced onions and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until they start turning translucent and fragrant. Next, add your mixed vegetables and the white parts of the scallions, stirring constantly for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt now — it helps to draw out moisture and intensify the veggies’ sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Heat Through
Now for the magic — add your cooked, preferably overnight jasmine rice to the pan. Break up any clumps gently using the back of your spatula, making sure every grain gets that quick sizzle. Cook everything together for several minutes until the rice is nicely heated through and starting to take on a golden hue from the hot oil and pan.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the five-spice powder along with a dash of white pepper if you like a bit of warmth. Stir everything vigorously to evenly distribute those wonderful flavors. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the rice to finish, then fold in your scrambled eggs, mixing gently but thoroughly. This step harmonizes the dish and ensures every bite is packed with color and taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the remaining green parts of the scallions over the top for freshness and a pop of color. Serve your Egg Fried Rice Recipe immediately while it’s hot and steaming. This little extra effort at the end makes all the difference in presentation and texture.
How to Serve Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly sliced green scallions or a few toasted sesame seeds elevate the look and add bright, delicate flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or a drizzle of chili oil can add an exciting twist without overshadowing the classic taste of the rice.
Side Dishes
This Egg Fried Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Crisp stir-fried greens, steamed dumplings, or even sweet and sour chicken make delightful companions. The balanced flavors of the rice help complement and tie together any Asian-inspired meal you create.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fried rice in crisp lettuce cups or small bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You could also mold the rice using a small bowl or ring mold for a polished, restaurant-style presentation that impresses guests and makes dinner feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Egg Fried Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve its texture and freshness. It’s a great meal prep option for busy days when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, you can freeze your fried rice in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to one month. Portion it out before freezing for easy thawing and reheating. Freezing locks in the flavors so your rice remains delicious even after storage.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent dryness. Stir occasionally until heated through and fluffy. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen to keep the texture just right. This way, your Egg Fried Rice Recipe tastes freshly made every time.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of overnight rice?
Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and soft, which can make your fried rice clumpy and mushy. Using rice cooked the day before and thoroughly chilled helps the grains firm up and separate easily, giving you that classic fluffy texture.
What vegetables work best for this Egg Fried Rice Recipe?
Mixed vegetables like bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, and peas all work wonderfully. Choose a colorful variety to brighten the dish and add different textures. Frozen mixed veggies can also be a convenient and tasty option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free if you substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives.
Can I add meat or tofu to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu can be added either by cooking them separately and folding them in during the final step or by stir-frying alongside the vegetables. This makes the dish more hearty and protein-packed.
How much heat does the five-spice powder add?
Five-spice powder adds warm, aromatic notes rather than heat. It’s a blend of spices like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon, which provide complexity without spiciness. You can adjust the amount based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly made Egg Fried Rice Recipe that feels both homemade and surprisingly special. Once you master this simple recipe, you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again because it’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this warm bowl of goodness with friends or family—you won’t regret making it your staple go-to!
Print
Egg Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This classic Egg Fried Rice recipe combines fluffy scrambled eggs, crisp mixed vegetables, and fragrant jasmine rice for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for using leftover rice, it’s flavored with soy sauce, five-spice powder, and toasted sesame oil for an authentic taste of Asian-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Eggs and Oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons peanut, vegetable, or olive oil, divided
Vegetables
- 1 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups diced mixed vegetables (such as bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, etc.)
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions, white and green parts divided
- Pinch of salt
Rice and Seasonings
- 4 cups cooked overnight jasmine rice
- 2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari if gluten free)
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
- Dash of ground white pepper (optional)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Beat the Eggs: Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them together until fully blended for a smooth scramble.
- Scramble the Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently for about one minute until just cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside, turning off the heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to a wok heated over high heat. Stir in the diced onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until they soften, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Then add the mixed vegetables along with the white parts of the scallions, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Rice: Add the chilled, cooked jasmine rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with the spatula and stir-fry the rice for several minutes until thoroughly heated.
- Season and Combine: Stir in the soy sauce, five-spice powder, optional white pepper, and toasted sesame oil, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors. Return the scrambled eggs to the wok and combine everything thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining green parts of the scallions on top for freshness, then serve the egg fried rice immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use day-old jasmine rice that has been refrigerated overnight to prevent sogginess.
- You may substitute the mixed vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
- Adjust the amount of sesame oil based on your taste preference for a more or less intense nutty aroma.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
- Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning and to evenly cook ingredients.
