Egg Fried Rice

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A quick and flavorful dish perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables.

Erin Wallace

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-23T02:57:30.798Z

Egg Fried Rice is a beloved dish that brings together the flavors of eggs and vegetables in a simple stir-fry. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for customization based on what ingredients you have on hand.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
  • Versatile dish that can utilize leftover rice and vegetables
  • Delicious combination of flavors with a hint of soy sauce

The Perfect Use for Leftover Rice

Egg Fried Rice is a culinary lifesaver, especially when you have leftover rice sitting in your fridge. Using day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and separates more easily during cooking, giving you that perfect fried rice texture. This dish not only reduces food waste but also saves you time and effort in meal prep. Next time you cook rice, consider making a little extra to enjoy this delicious meal later.

This dish is incredibly flexible. You can use any combination of leftover vegetables you have on hand, from bell peppers to broccoli. This versatility allows you to customize the dish based on what you enjoy most or what needs to be used up. Each time you make it, you can create a different flavor profile, keeping your meals exciting and varied.

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding a meal that is both quick to prepare and satisfying can be a challenge. Egg Fried Rice comes to the rescue with its rapid cooking time of just 20 minutes. Whether you're whipping up a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish can be on your table in no time. With minimal preparation and cooking steps, it's a stress-free option for even the busiest of schedules.

The combination of eggs and mixed vegetables not only makes this dish nutritious but also adds a delightful crunch and richness. The soy sauce enhances the flavors, making each bite a savory experience. This recipe is perfect for families or individuals who want a filling meal without the fuss.

Tips for the Best Egg Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your Egg Fried Rice, ensure that your rice is chilled before cooking. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clump together, while cold rice will fry up beautifully and evenly. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using it in your recipe.

Additionally, feel free to enhance your Egg Fried Rice by adding protein like shrimp, chicken, or tofu. These additions not only make the dish heartier but also turn it into a complete meal. Experimenting with seasonings and sauces can also elevate the flavors. Try adding a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect Egg Fried Rice:

Prepare the Eggs

In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine Rice and Seasonings

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to fry slightly.

Finish with Eggs and Green Onions

Finally, add the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions to the rice mixture. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. Serve hot.

Your Egg Fried Rice is now ready to enjoy!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing your Egg Fried Rice is simple. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to three days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

For those who prefer freezing, Egg Fried Rice can be frozen as well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

Egg Fried Rice can be served as a standalone dish or as a side to complement your favorite Asian-inspired meals. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or a simple soup for a well-rounded dinner. For a touch of freshness, consider serving it with a side of pickled vegetables or a crisp salad.

To elevate the presentation, garnish your Egg Fried Rice with additional sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and save time on prep.

→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old rice is best as it is drier and prevents clumping.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply omit the eggs and use tofu or additional vegetables.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Consider adding garlic, ginger, or sesame oil for extra flavor.

Egg Fried Rice

A quick and flavorful dish perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time20 minutes

Created by: Erin Wallace

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  2. 3 large eggs
  3. 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  4. 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  5. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  6. 2 green onions, sliced
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 03

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to fry slightly.

Step 04

Finally, add the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions to the rice mixture. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. Serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 186mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 10g