Description

Who doesn’t love a plate of crispy, flavorful fried rice? It’s a dish that originated in China, but over time, it has become a global favorite, enjoyed in countless variations. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner after a busy day or use up leftover rice, this Better Than Takeout Fried Rice recipe is the perfect solution. It’s easy to make, customizable, and healthier than the takeout version you’d typically order. The beauty of making fried rice at home is that you can control the ingredients—choosing fresh veggies, using less oil, and adjusting the seasonings to your taste. With a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors, this homemade fried rice will quickly become a go-to dish for your weeknight meals. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides or proteins, making it the ultimate customizable dish!

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked, which should only take a few minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Now it’s time to infuse the dish with flavor by adding the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Next, add the mixed vegetables to the pan—peas, carrots, and corn work wonderfully, but feel free to get creative with what you have on hand. Cook the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender but still vibrant.

Add the cooked rice to the pan next. It’s best to use day-old rice, as it’s less sticky and fries up better. Use a spatula to break up any clumps, stirring the rice into the vegetable mixture so it gets evenly heated.

Now, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. These ingredients will coat the rice beautifully, creating that deep, umami flavor that fried rice is known for. Make sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauces, and continue stirring to mix everything well.

Once the rice is fully mixed, return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Stir them into the rice until they are evenly distributed. Add the sliced green onions, and give everything one final stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like your fried rice extra flavorful, feel free to add a little more soy sauce or sesame oil.

Serve your Better Than Takeout Fried Rice hot, garnished with a few extra green onions if desired. It’s the perfect meal on its own or can be served as a side to accompany a variety of dishes.

Tips and Conclusion

This fried rice is highly customizable! For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli for added crunch and nutrition. If you love spice, try adding a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes to give your fried rice a zesty kick. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the oyster sauce or use a vegetarian-friendly alternative. And don’t forget to play around with different soy sauces—using both light and dark soy sauces can give the fried rice an even richer flavor.

This Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that beats takeout hands down. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftovers, incorporate healthy vegetables, and enjoy a delicious, customizable dish in under 30 minutes. Whether served as a main dish or as a side to complement a protein, this fried rice is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. And because it’s so adaptable, you can keep making it different each time! Try it today, and don’t forget to explore more tasty recipes on our site for additional meal inspiration!