Better Than Takeout Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Perfect for repurposing leftover rice and veggies.
• Customizable with proteins and additional veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old or leftover rice works best!)
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 1/4 cup soy sauce

Directions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add peas, carrots, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry until tender, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Lower heat to medium-low and push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet.
4. Pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side and stir-fry until scrambled.
5. Add the rice and soy sauce to the skillet, mixing everything together.
6. Stir-fry until the rice is heated through and well-coated with soy sauce. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or diced beef.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Drizzle with sriracha or add a sprinkle of red chili flakes.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftover fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make fried rice taste like restaurant-style?

Use day-old rice, sesame oil, and high heat to achieve that authentic flavor.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Fresh rice is too moist and may turn mushy. Spread it out to cool and dry before using.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for its fluffy texture, but jasmine or basmati rice also works.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I freeze fried rice?

Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

What other oils can I use?

If sesame oil isn’t available, use vegetable, peanut, or canola oil.

Can I make it vegetarian?

It’s already vegetarian-friendly; just ensure your soy sauce is vegan.

Why is day-old rice better?

Day-old rice has less moisture, preventing it from becoming mushy during cooking.

Can I add sauces or seasonings?

Feel free to experiment with oyster sauce, fish sauce, or a sprinkle of white pepper.

How do I prevent sticking?

Make sure your skillet or wok is hot and well-oiled before adding the ingredients.

Conclusion

Better Than Takeout Fried Rice is a delicious, customizable recipe that’s easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a side for your favorite Asian-inspired meals. Experiment with proteins and veggies to make it your own, and enjoy the convenience and taste of this homemade classic!