I remember the first time I cooked this Egg Fried Rice Recipe—I was craving that perfect takeaway taste but wanted it right in my own kitchen. I boiled the rice early in the day and let it rest, which made all the difference once it hit the wok.
With fragrant sesame oil and zesty lemon juice, every bite was full of flavor that surprised even me. It quickly became one of my go-to midweek meals that’s both comforting and exciting. Follow along, and soon you’ll be cooking this with confidence and flair!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious egg fried rice:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – neutral oil that handles high heat well.
- 1 onion, peeled and diced – adds natural sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – gives strong aromatic flavor.
- 800 g (about 4 cups) cooked and cooled long-grain rice – cold rice works best for fluffy, separate grains.
- ½ tbsp sesame oil – adds authentic nutty aroma.
- 2 large eggs – provide richness and protein.
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce – delivers savory flavor and beautiful color.
- ¼ tsp salt – enhances overall taste.
- ¼ tsp garlic salt – boosts garlic flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – balances richness with freshness.
- ½ bunch spring onions (scallions), chopped – fresh finish and garnish.
Note: Serves approximately 4 people.
Variations
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Use light soy sauce for a milder flavor.
- Add peas, carrots, corn, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Replace sesame oil with chili oil for a spicy version.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce.
You may also enjoy refreshing recipe ideas like peach-blueberry-smoothie-recipe and watermelon-blueberry-protein-smoothie-recipe.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large wok or deep frying pan – for high-heat stir-frying.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – to toss rice evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate seasoning.
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping ingredients.
How to Make Egg Fried Rice Recipe?
Prep the Aromatics
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and slightly golden. Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Fry the Rice
Increase the heat to high and add the cold cooked rice to the pan. Drizzle sesame oil over the rice and stir continuously. Break up any clumps and ensure every grain is heated evenly.
Cook the Eggs and Season
Push the rice to one side of the wok and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble gently until just set, then mix them into the rice. Add soy sauce, salt, garlic salt, and lemon juice. Stir well until everything is evenly combined and hot. Finish with chopped spring onions before serving.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always use day-old rice because freshly cooked rice becomes sticky.
- I keep the heat high to achieve that authentic fried texture.
- I don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches helps prevent steaming.
- I add spring onions at the end to keep them fresh and crisp.
- A small extra drizzle of sesame oil before serving enhances flavor.
How to Serve Egg Fried Rice Recipe?
Serve it hot in bowls or on plates as a main dish or side. Garnish with extra spring onions for color. It pairs well with stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or tofu dishes. For presentation, I like to press the rice into a bowl and flip it onto a plate for a neat dome shape. Add a wedge of lemon for brightness.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 358 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fat: 11 g
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerating
Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2 days. Cool it completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a hot pan with a little oil until steaming hot throughout. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this egg fried rice is a favorite:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Highly Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Great for Leftovers: A smart way to use up cooked rice.
- Full of Flavor: Balanced with soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and lemon.
This egg fried rice recipe is simple, satisfying, and full of delicious flavor. Once you try it, it may become a regular dish in your home just like it did in mine. Enjoy cooking and sharing it with family and friends! 🍚✨
