Stir-Fries

Shrimp Fried Rice

Name: Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups (400g) day-old cooked rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch (2.5cm) piece of fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 scallions, chopped; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro

By Elias Merriweather · June 19, 2026 · Stir-Fries

Prep15 min

Cook10 min

Total25 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had Shrimp Fried Rice at a Chinese restaurant. The combination of tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings was love at first bite. As I grew older, I realized that making this dish at home was not only possible but also incredibly easy. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality Shrimp Fried Rice in the comfort of your own kitchen.

One of the best things about Shrimp Fried Rice is its versatility. You can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables, meats, or seasonings. Whether you're a seafood lover or a vegetarian, this dish can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a classic Shrimp Fried Rice that's sure to become a staple in your household.

Shrimp Fried Rice is a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a one-pot wonder that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals with limited time. The dish is also perfect for using up leftover rice, vegetables, and protein, reducing food waste and saving you money.

In this recipe, I'll share my secrets for making the perfect Shrimp Fried Rice. From the importance of using day-old rice to the technique of velveting the shrimp, I'll guide you through every step of the process. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to create a delicious and authentic Shrimp Fried Rice that will impress your friends and family.

So, let's get started on this culinary journey and explore the world of Shrimp Fried Rice. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow and enjoyable to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Shrimp Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste.
It's a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The dish is perfect for using up leftover rice, vegetables, and protein.
Shrimp Fried Rice is a healthy and nutritious meal that's low in calories and high in protein.
It's a fun and interactive dish to make, with plenty of opportunities for creativity and experimentation.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Shrimp Fried Rice is to understand the importance of wok hei, or the breath of the wok. This refers to the high heat and quick stir-frying technique that gives the dish its signature flavor and texture. By using a hot wok or large skillet, you can achieve the perfect balance of caramelization and crunch in your Shrimp Fried Rice.

Another crucial element is the use of aromatics. Onions, garlic, and ginger are the holy trinity of Chinese cooking, and they add depth and complexity to the dish. By sautéing these ingredients in oil before adding the shrimp and rice, you create a flavorful foundation that elevates the entire dish.

The type of rice used is also critical. Day-old rice is essential for making good Shrimp Fried Rice, as it's drier and easier to stir-fry than freshly cooked rice. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy or clumpy, ensuring that each grain remains separate and fluffy.

Finally, the seasoning is what brings everything together. A combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish, while scallions and chili flakes provide a fresh and spicy kick. By balancing these flavors, you can create a Shrimp Fried Rice that's both authentic and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including shrimp, rice, aromatics, and seasonings. The key is to use high-quality ingredients that are fresh and flavorful. For the shrimp, look for large, succulent pieces that are free of added preservatives or flavorings. For the rice, use day-old rice that's been cooked and cooled to room temperature.

In terms of aromatics, you'll need onions, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish, and can be found in most supermarkets. Finally, you'll need a few seasonings, including soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. These ingredients can be found in the international or Asian food section of most supermarkets.

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedLook for succulent, preservative-free shrimp that are suitable for stir-frying. You can also use frozen shrimp, thawed according to package instructions.
2 cups (400g) day-old cooked riceDay-old rice is essential for making good Shrimp Fried Rice, as it's drier and easier to stir-fry than freshly cooked rice.
1 medium onion, dicedOnions add a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish. You can also use shallots or scallions as a substitute.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in Chinese cooking, and adds depth and complexity to the dish. You can also use garlic powder or garlic oil as a substitute.
1-inch (2.5cm) piece of fresh ginger, gratedGinger adds a warm, spicy flavor to the dish. You can also use ground ginger or crystallized ginger as a substitute.
2 tablespoons vegetable oilVegetable oil is a neutral-tasting oil that's perfect for stir-frying. You can also use peanut oil or avocado oil as a substitute.
2 tablespoons soy sauceSoy sauce is a salty, savory condiment that adds depth and umami flavor to the dish. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
1 tablespoon oyster sauceOyster sauce is a sweet, savory condiment that adds a rich, complex flavor to the dish. You can also use hoisin sauce or fish sauce as a substitute.
1 teaspoon sesame oilSesame oil is a nutty, aromatic oil that adds a distinct flavor to the dish. You can also use peanut oil or avocado oil as a substitute.
1/2 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds depth to the dish. You can also use sea salt or kosher salt as a substitute.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, pungent flavor to the dish. You can also use white pepper or Sichuan pepper as a substitute.
2 scallions, choppedScallions add a fresh, oniony flavor to the dish. You can also use shallots or chives as a substitute.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantroCilantro adds a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish. You can also use parsley or basil as a substitute.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice

1
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2
Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until they're pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
6
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
7
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry it for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the rice and stir-fry for another minute, until the rice is well coated with the sauce.
9
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, until the shrimp are well combined with the rice.
10
Add the chopped scallions and cilantro to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute, until they're evenly distributed throughout the dish.
11
Season the Shrimp Fried Rice with salt and pepper to taste, then serve it immediately in individual bowls or on a large platter.
12
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, which should reach 145 F (63 C) in the thickest part.
13
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to cool slightly.

Expert Tips

Use day-old rice to make the best Shrimp Fried Rice, as it's drier and easier to stir-fry than freshly cooked rice.
Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Add aromatics like onions, garlic, and ginger to the dish to add depth and complexity.
Use a variety of seasonings like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the dish your own.
Use a large heavy skillet or wok to make the dish, as it allows for quick and even stir-frying.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.
Add the ingredients in the correct order, starting with the aromatics and then the protein and rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice, which can lead to a mushy or clumpy texture.
Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough and rubbery.
Not adding enough aromatics or seasonings, which can result in a bland or uninspired dish.
Not stir-frying the ingredients quickly and evenly, which can lead to a dish that's unevenly cooked or lacking in texture.
Not using a large enough skillet or wok, which can lead to overcrowding and steaming instead of stir-frying.
Not adding the ingredients in the correct order, which can disrupt the balance of flavors and textures in the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add other protein sources like chicken, beef, or tofu to the dish for added variety.
Use different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add other aromatics like shallots or lemongrass to the dish for added depth and complexity.
Use different seasonings like hoisin sauce or fish sauce to add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Add other ingredients like peas, carrots, or corn to the dish for added color and nutrition.
Use a variety of spices and herbs, such as Sichuan pepper or cilantro, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Serve the dish with a fried egg or other toppings, such as green onions or sesame seeds, for added texture and flavor.

What to Serve With Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a main course, accompanied by other Chinese dishes like egg rolls or dumplings. You can also serve it as a side dish, paired with a variety of other Asian-inspired dishes. For a fun and interactive meal, try serving the Shrimp Fried Rice in individual bowls and letting everyone add their own toppings, such as green onions, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger.

Some other ideas for serving Shrimp Fried Rice include pairing it with a simple green salad, serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, or using it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos. You can also serve it with a variety of sauces, such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or sriracha, for added flavor and spice.

Serve with a simple green saladPair with a side of steamed vegetablesUse as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacosServe with a variety of sauces, such as soy sauce or hoisin sauceAdd other ingredients, such as scrambled eggs or diced vegetables, for added flavor and nutrition

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Shrimp Fried Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the dish cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. To freeze, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze.

To reheat the dish, simply microwave it for 1-2 minutes or stir-fry it in a skillet with a little oil until it's hot and crispy. You can also add other ingredients, such as scrambled eggs or diced vegetables, to the dish during reheating for added flavor and nutrition.

One of the best things about Shrimp Fried Rice is that it's a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time, then stir-fry everything together just before serving. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions, when you want to serve a delicious and impressive meal without a lot of fuss.

To make the dish ahead of time, simply prepare all the ingredients, including the cooked rice, aromatics, and protein, then store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply stir-fry everything together in a skillet with a little oil and season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice is best for Shrimp Fried Rice?

Day-old rice is best for Shrimp Fried Rice, as it's drier and easier to stir-fry than freshly cooked rice. You can use any type of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, but day-old rice is preferred.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy or clumpy?

To prevent the rice from becoming mushy or clumpy, use day-old rice and stir-fry it quickly and evenly in a large skillet or wok. You can also add a little oil to the rice to help separate the grains and prevent clumping.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Simply thaw the shrimp according to package instructions, then pat them dry with paper towels before using.

What if I don't have an instant-read thermometer?

If you don't have an instant-read thermometer, you can check the internal temperature of the shrimp by cutting into one of them. The internal temperature should be at least 145 F (63 C) for food safety.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare all the ingredients, including the cooked rice, aromatics, and protein, then store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply stir-fry everything together in a skillet with a little oil and season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.

How do I reheat the dish without drying it out?

To reheat the dish without drying it out, simply microwave it for 1-2 minutes or stir-fry it in a skillet with a little oil until it's hot and crispy. You can also add other ingredients, such as scrambled eggs or diced vegetables, to the dish during reheating for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I customize this recipe to my taste?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to your taste. Feel free to add other ingredients, such as peas, carrots, or corn, or use different seasonings, such as hoisin sauce or fish sauce, to add a unique flavor to the dish.

Is Shrimp Fried Rice a healthy dish?

Shrimp Fried Rice can be a healthy dish if made with healthy ingredients and cooking methods. Use brown rice instead of white rice, and add plenty of vegetables and lean protein sources to make the dish more nutritious.

Can I serve Shrimp Fried Rice as a main course?

Yes, you can serve Shrimp Fried Rice as a main course. Simply add other ingredients, such as scrambled eggs or diced vegetables, to make the dish more filling and satisfying.

The Full Recipe

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