Ingredients

1 lb 26-30 count uncooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)

1 tsp corn starch

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

3 Tbsp light olive oil or canola oil

4 large eggs (beaten)

1/4 cup green onion (finely chopped)

5 cups leftover chilled white rice (rinse rice before cooking)

12 oz frozen carrots and peas (thawed)

2 Tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos (or added to taste)

1 1/2 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until a bead of water sizzles and evaporates. Add 2 Tbsp of oil and spread shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1 minute per side until opaque and cooked through, then remove shrimp to a bowl.

Step 3: Using the same skillet over medium heat, add the beaten eggs. Break them up with a spatula and cook until no longer runny. Remove eggs to a separate bowl.

Step 4: Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel, return to medium-high heat, add 1 Tbsp oil and the chopped green onions. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Stir in the chilled rice, then spread it evenly over the pan. Let cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes, then stir and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until the rice sizzles.

Step 6: Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and stir well. Add sesame oil and the thawed carrots and peas, mixing until combined.

Step 7: Return cooked shrimp and eggs to the skillet. Mix everything well and continue cooking until the rice is hot and sizzling. Adjust soy sauce to taste if desired.

Tips & Variations

For best texture, use leftover chilled rice rather than freshly cooked to prevent mushiness.

You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Try adding a splash of fish sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor and heat.

Use fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas if frozen veggies aren’t available.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky, resulting in clumpy fried rice. It’s best to use rice that has been cooked and chilled for at least a few hours or overnight for ideal texture.

Is it necessary to marinate the shrimp?

Marinating the shrimp with cornstarch and seasoning helps tenderize them and adds extra flavor, enhancing the overall dish. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and season shrimp while cooking.