Go Back
+ servings
9-Min Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

9-Min Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Servings 2
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes

Ingredients

For the shrimp

  • 3/4 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the stir-fry

  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil, separated, high-smoking-point
  • ½ medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 cups day-old jasmine rice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Pinch of white pepper
  • ½ cup bean sprouts
  • 2 stalks scallions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  • To season the shrimp, in a bowl, add the shrimp, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well to create a light coating that keeps the shrimp tender.
  • To prepare the other ingredients, in a bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Dice the onion, slice the scallions, and mince the garlic.
  • To prepare the rice, use day-old jasmine rice for the best texture. If using freshly cooked rice, cook it with a 1:1 rice-to-water ratio or slightly less water than usual. Once cooked, spread it on a plate to cool and air-dry for at least 15 minutes before stir-frying.
  • To stir-fry the shrimp, in a wok over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the shrimp and garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute and 30 seconds until the shrimp turn pink. Remove and set aside.
  • To stir-fry the onion, in the same wok over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the onion and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
  • To make the fried rice, in the wok over high heat, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the beaten eggs and stir-fry until partially set. Add the rice and stir-fry for about 1 minute until the grains separate. Season with soy sauce and white pepper and mix well. Return the shrimp and onion to the wok and stir-fry until evenly combined. Lastly, add the bean sprouts and scallions and give everything a final toss before serving.

Video

Notes

Tips & notes

  • Prep ahead: Onions and scallions can be sliced in advance, and the eggs can be beaten up to 1 day ahead.
  • Lightly coat the shrimp: Cornstarch keeps them juicy and helps them cook evenly at high heat.
  • Rice-to-water ratio: Use a 1:1 ratio when cooking rice, or slightly less water than usual. Drier rice works best for fried rice.
  • Use overnight rice: Cold, day-old rice is key for fluffy, separated grains that don’t stick together.
  • If using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is softer, so spread it out to cool and air-dry for at least 30 minutes before using.
  • Keep the heat high: High heat helps develop wok hei—the signature smoky aroma of fried rice.
  • Protein swap: Add chicken, beef, pork, or any protein you have on hand.
  • Adjust the vegetables: Feel free to add peas, carrots, corn kernels, or other veggies you like.
Author: CiCi Li