Skillet Scrambled Egg Fried Rice - Delicious Meal Ideas
Scrambled egg fried rice is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines the creaminess of eggs with the heartiness of rice. This dish can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Delicious Meal Idea for Scrambled Egg Fried Rice
If you have eggs and leftover rice, you can whip up a simple dish that tastes like Chinese takeout. Whether you choose to add vegetables, meats, or spices, its simplicity allows for quick preparation, making it an ideal choice for any meal.
Below summarizes the process of making scrambled egg fried rice. It can be as simple as fried rice and eggs or a deluxe version adding vegetables and protein.
How to Make Fried Rice
Cooking the rice: Begin by cooking your choice of rice in a pot on the stove. Cooking times may vary depending on the type of rice. For example, long-grain rice, such as Basmati and Jasmine typically takes 15-20 minutes. You want to be sure to read the recommended cooking time for the type of rice you are preparing to ensure it is fluffy and tender.
Ideally, cooking the rice a day in advance will allow it to cool and firm up. It will also help to prevent any clumping.
Frying the rice: In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat, then add diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers, sautéing them until tender. Next, incorporate any desired proteins, such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu, and cook until fully done. Push the mixture to one side of the pan, crack in a couple of eggs, and scramble them until cooked through. Finally, add the cooled rice, mixing everything together, and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions to taste, ensuring the rice is heated through before serving.
Vegetables for Fried Rice
Fried rice can be enhanced with a variety of vegetables to boost its flavor and nutritional value. Common additions include peas, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions. These not only contribute vibrant colors but also a range of textures.
Other options such as broccoli, corn, and mushrooms can also be added into the dish. The beauty of scrambled egg fried rice is you can get creative and personalize the dish to your personal taste.
Protein for Fried Rice
To elevate the nutritional value of fried rice, adding protein sources such as chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame can be beneficial. These options not only contribute essential amino acids but also improve the overall balance of the dish.
Simply by adding these proteins, you can create a more satisfying and wholesome meal choice.
What to Add to Fried Rice
To enhance the flavor of scrambled egg fried rice, consider adding seasonings such as garlic, ginger, and onions. These additions provide a robust base. Additionally, sauces, such as soy sauce or oyster sauce, can also contribute depth and richness.
Finally, finishing the dish with fresh herbs like scallions or cilantro can add a vibrant touch. Not only will the fried rice be more flavorful but also visually appealing.
Ever wonder where fried rice came from?
Interestingly, the origin of fried rice goes way back to ancient China, during a time called the Sui dynasty. It appears people were conscientious about wasting food, so they took whatever leftover rice they had and combined it with whatever they had on hand. This was later to become a favorite with the people and every family had their own version.
How to Make Scrambled Egg Fried Rice in a Nutshell
In a large skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers, sautéing them until tender.
Next, mix in any desired proteins, such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu, and cook until fully done. Push the mixture to one side of the pan.
Then, crack in a couple of eggs, and scramble until cooked through.
Finally, add the cooled rice, mixing everything together, and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions to taste, ensuring the rice is heated through before serving.
Simple Scrambled Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables of choice
- 2-1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1-1/2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (separated)
- green onion (optional
Prepare the ingredients: Gather the 2 cups of cooked rice, 3 large eggs, 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers), and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Additionally, have 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil ready for frying, along with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan, crack the eggs into the empty space, and scramble them until fully cooked.
- Combine the scrambled eggs with the vegetables, then add the cooked rice to the skillet.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the rice is heated through and evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.