Simply Scrumptious Shrimp Fried Rice: A Flavorful Delight
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a mouthwatering dish that’s both satisfying and quick to make – Shrimp Fried Rice! Bursting with savory flavors, tender shrimp, and aromatic veggies, this Asian-inspired recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Join us as we explore the art of creating this delightful dish from scratch.
Ingredients:
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the following ingredients:
Seafood:
- 8 ounces Shrimp (small or medium)
Produce:
- 3 tablespoons Fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Green onion
- 1/4 cup Onion
Refrigerated:
- 1 Egg, beaten well
Pasta & Grains:
- 4 cups Cooked long-grain rice
Baking & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
Instructions:
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable Shrimp Fried Rice:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and devein the shrimp, if necessary. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.
- Finely chop the garlic, green onion, and onion. Chop the cilantro and set aside for garnish.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Scramble the Egg
- In the same skillet, add the beaten egg and cook, stirring gently, until scrambled. Remove the scrambled egg from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
- Add the chopped garlic, green onion, and onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 5: Add the Rice
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
- Stir-fry the rice with the aromatics for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Combine and Season
- Return the cooked shrimp and scrambled egg to the skillet with the rice.
- Season the fried rice with salt, to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the shrimp fried rice with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Shrimp Fried Rice!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers to your fried rice for added color and texture.
- Protein Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with chicken, beef, tofu, or even additional eggs.
- Sauce Options: Enhance the flavor of your shrimp fried rice by drizzling it with soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil before serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover rice works perfectly for fried rice as it tends to be drier, resulting in better texture. Simply ensure that the rice is cold and not clumped together before adding it to the skillet.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While shrimp fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the individual components (such as cooking the rice and prepping the vegetables) ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
3. Is shrimp fried rice keto-friendly?
Traditional fried rice typically contains rice, which is high in carbs, making it unsuitable for a keto diet. However, you can create a keto-friendly version of this dish by substituting the rice with cauliflower rice or Shirataki rice.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly version of shrimp fried rice, simply substitute the cooked long-grain rice with cauliflower rice. You can also reduce the amount of onion used to lower the carb content further. Additionally, ensure that the sauces and seasonings you use are keto-friendly and free from added sugars.
Indulge in the rich flavors and satisfying textures of homemade Shrimp Fried Rice with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this versatile recipe is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this classic Asian-inspired dish. Happy cooking!