This Shrimp Garlic Fried Rice is a tasty dish packed with juicy shrimp and loads of garlic. It’s quick to make and perfect for using up leftover rice!
Honestly, who can resist that garlic smell while cooking? It fills the kitchen and makes everyone feel hungry! I love to add a sprinkle of green onions on top for a fresh finish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Day-old cooked rice is best because it’s drier and won’t get mushy. If you don’t have any leftovers, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray to cool for a bit before using it. This helps it firm up!
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are great, but feel free to use larger shrimp for a more satisfying bite. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with chicken, tofu, or a mix of veggies for a vegetarian version!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used but it won’t have the same punch. Adjust to your taste; garlic lovers like to add even more!
Green Peas: Fresh peas add a pop of color and sweetness, but frozen peas work just as well and save time. You can omit them if there are allergies or go with other veggies like bell peppers or carrots if you prefer.
Soy Sauce: For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. If gluten-free is a must, check for gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos which can be a great alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Stir-Fry Without Burning Anything?
Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking! Follow these easy steps for perfect results:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding oil. This helps prevent sticking and burning.
- Cook the shrimp until just pink and remove them right away to avoid overcooking.
- Work quickly! Stir-fry each ingredient one at a time, like the garlic and onions, to keep them from burning.
- Keep stirring continuously after adding the rice and shrimp to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Cooking on high heat allows the ingredients to caramelize nicely and create a fantastic flavor. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Shrimp Garlic Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 ½ cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 12-15 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 green onions, sliced thinly (separate white and green parts)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. If you’ve got your rice ready, you’re just a quick stir-fry away from a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be sure to remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Onions:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Then, add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Just be careful not to let the garlic burn!
3. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the garlic and onions to the side of the pan, and then pour in the beaten eggs. Gently scramble the eggs until they are just cooked but still soft. After they’re scrambled, mix them back in with the garlic and onions.
4. Add the Rice:
Next, add the cooked rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes to warm the rice evenly and get all those tasty flavors mixed together.
5. Mix in Shrimp and Peas:
Now, stir in the green peas and the cooked shrimp. Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over everything, and toss it all together until the rice is nicely coated and heated through. If it’s looking a bit dry, feel free to add a splash more soy sauce!
6. Final Seasoning:
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can adjust according to your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the fried rice from the heat and garnish it with the green parts of the sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty Shrimp Garlic Fried Rice!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for a quick thaw.
What If I Don’t Have Day-Old Rice?
No problem! If you don’t have day-old rice, you can still use freshly cooked rice. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 15-20 minutes so it firms up a bit before stir-frying.
How to Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Leftover shrimp garlic fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help it steam and prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the garlic for even cooking.