Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side for any Asian-inspired meal. Packed with vegetables, savory seasonings, and optional protein, this recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for a hearty and delicious fried rice that rivals any takeout version.

Ingredients

• 3 cups of cooked and cooled white rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• Optional protein: 1 cup of cooked shrimp, diced chicken, or tofu

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice: Ensure your rice is cold and clump-free. Break apart any chunks for even cooking.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Cook the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and scramble until cooked through. Remove the eggs and set aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the peas and carrots, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
6. Combine Rice and Protein: Increase the heat to high. Add the cold rice and optional protein to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
7. Season the Rice: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir-fry everything for 5–7 minutes, ensuring the rice absorbs the sauces evenly.
8. Add Eggs and Green Onions: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and fold them into the fried rice. Add the chopped green onions and cook for another minute.
9. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve your fried rice immediately with additional soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor. Pair it with a side of egg rolls, dumplings, or stir-fried vegetables.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to restore moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish.

2. What’s the best way to make day-old rice?
Cook the rice a day ahead and refrigerate it uncovered for a few hours to dry it out slightly. This prevents it from becoming mushy when fried.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the protein or use tofu as a plant-based alternative. Use vegetarian oyster sauce or additional soy sauce for flavor.

4. How can I make it spicier?
Add a teaspoon of chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes when seasoning the rice for a spicy kick.

Enjoy your Better Than Takeout Fried Rice, a versatile and satisfying dish that will quickly become a household favorite!

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