Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Fast Plate Favorites
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a satisfying meal in a hurry. It’s amazing how you can transform leftover rice into a delicious dish with just a few ingredients. The best part is that it only takes 10 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re cooking for one or for the whole family, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling lazy. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful, making it my go-to option when I want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
One evening when I was pressed for time, I decided to experiment with leftover rice and eggs. I never imagined that such a quick meal could taste so satisfying! The combination of soy sauce, vegetables, and eggs creates a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. I also learned that using cold rice works best, as it prevents the dish from getting mushy.
This method allows for flexibility, too! I often add any leftover vegetables I have on hand. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste while still creating something delicious. I can't tell you how many times this recipe has saved my dinner plans!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick cooking time of just 10 minutes
- Perfect balance of flavors with eggs and soy sauce
- Versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite veggies
Mastering the Rice
Using day-old rice is ideal for this recipe because it’s drier and less sticky compared to freshly cooked rice. This prevents the fried rice from turning mushy and allows each grain to be well-separated and thoroughly coated in flavor. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 30 minutes or refrigerate it for around 15 minutes to reduce moisture and get that perfect texture.
When adding the rice, break up any clumps to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry it gently until it’s heated through, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the flavors from the soy sauce, giving you that delicious, savory base that pairs perfectly with the vegetables and eggs.
Perfecting the Eggs
The eggs in this recipe are not just a source of protein; they add richness and creaminess to the fried rice. When scrambling the eggs, keep the heat at medium to prevent them from cooking too fast and becoming rubbery. Remove the eggs while they are still slightly undercooked since they’ll continue to cook when you mix them back with the rice later.
For extra flavor, consider seasoning the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper as they cook. You can also whisk in a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an additional flavor dimension, enhancing the overall taste profile of the fried rice.
Customizing Your Dish
This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize according to your taste and what you have available. Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for any fresh or frozen options you like, such as broccoli, corn, or snow peas. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you use firmer vegetables, so they are tender but not overcooked.
If you're looking to add some protein, leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu can make a great addition. Simply stir-fry them with the vegetables for a couple of minutes before adding the rice. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it more filling and nutritious, turning a simple side into a complete meal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your egg fried rice:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, bell pepper)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious egg fried rice:
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Scramble the Eggs
Add the eggs to the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the Rice and Sauce
Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Combine with Eggs
Finally, add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with chopped green onion and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!
Pro Tips
- For an added kick, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of sesame oil during cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Since rice can harbor bacteria if left out at room temperature, make sure to refrigerate any leftovers promptly after cooling. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until evenly heated.
If you enjoy making larger batches, this dish can also be frozen. Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers and thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat. Reheat it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help restore its moisture during reheating.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easily scalable. Whether you're cooking for one or hosting a gathering, you can adjust the ingredients accordingly. For example, if you double the rice to serve four, increase the eggs and vegetables proportionately to maintain the balance of flavors. Just be cautious with the soy sauce, as too much can overpower the dish; start with the original amount and adjust to taste.
When scaling up, using a larger skillet or wok can help ensure an even stir-fry. Make sure to keep the heat consistent and avoid overcrowding the pan; this lets the rice fry instead of steam. You may need to stir-fry in batches if you're making a large amount to maintain that delightful texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh rice instead of cold rice?
It’s better to use cold rice because it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out to cool first.
→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?
You can use any vegetables you like. Peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers are great options!
→ Can I make this dish without eggs?
Yes! You can simply omit the eggs or replace them with tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How long does this dish stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 3 days.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a satisfying meal in a hurry. It’s amazing how you can transform leftover rice into a delicious dish with just a few ingredients. The best part is that it only takes 10 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re cooking for one or for the whole family, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling lazy. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful, making it my go-to option when I want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Fast Plate Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, bell pepper)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the eggs to the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Finally, add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped green onion and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For an added kick, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of sesame oil during cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g