3-Min Egg Fried Rice Recipe

3-Minute Egg Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food — fast, flavorful, and made with just a few ingredients you probably already have. Growing up, we always had leftover rice, eggs, and scallions in the fridge, and this was our favorite way to turn humble staples into something incredibly satisfying. The best part? It takes just 3 minutes to cook!

Egg Fried Rice Recipe

Serves: 2 to 4
Prep time: 30 seconds
Cook time: 2 minutes and 30 seconds

For the fried rice:
3 cups cooked jasmine rice, overnight
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Pinch of white pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3 stalks scallions, separated into white and green parts

Egg Fried Rice Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients:

• Chop the white parts of the scallions into ½-inch pieces. Thinly slice the green parts and set aside.
• Crack the eggs into a bowl and lightly beat them.

2. Prepare the rice:

• Use overnight jasmine rice for best texture. The reduced moisture keeps each grain separated during stir-frying.
• If using freshly cooked rice, use a 1:1 rice-to-water ratio and cook, then spread it out on a plate and let it air-dry for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

3. Make the scallion oil:

• In a wok over medium heat, add the cooking oil and the white parts of the scallions.
• Cook for about 20 seconds until aromatic, then remove the scallions. The quick infusion adds deep flavor.

4. Stir-fry the egg fried rice:

• With the scallion oil still in the wok, turn the heat to high. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until halfway cooked.
• Add the overnight rice and stir-fry, breaking up clumps and tossing until each grain is coated and separated.
• Season with white pepper and soy sauce (or salt for a lighter-colored fried rice). Mix well.
• Finish with the green parts of the scallions and give everything a final toss.

Tips & notes

• Rice-to-water ratio: Use a 1:1 ratio for cooking rice, or slightly less water than usual. For fried rice, drier rice works better.
• Use overnight rice: This is key to getting that fluffy, non-sticky fried rice texture.
• Only have fresh rice? Spread it out to cool and air-dry for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Scallion oil is a flavor boost: Make extra and store it for future stir-fries or noodles.
• Make it your own: This is a great base recipe. Add shrimp, chicken, ham, sausages, tofu — whatever you like!