Dinner

Best Fried Rice Recipe

ByElara Stone November 24, 2025November 24, 2025

Introduction

Fried rice is a quick and versatile dish that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful meal. This recipe combines savory soy sauce, fresh vegetables, and scrambled eggs for a classic, satisfying result.

A white skillet filled with fried rice, showing one layer made up of light brown rice grains mixed evenly with small pieces of orange carrots and green peas, along with bits of scrambled egg scattered throughout. On top of the rice is a wooden spatula resting inside, its smooth light brown color contrasting with the textured rice. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface and a blue cloth is partially underneath it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
¼ large Vidalia onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 large eggs
½ teaspoon sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
Green onions, for topping
Cilantro (optional), for topping

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 2: Add the frozen peas and carrots to the pan, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until they begin to thaw.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cooked rice. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly browned. Push the rice to the sides of the pan, creating a space in the center.
Step 4: Crack the eggs into the center of the pan and scramble them. Once cooked, mix the eggs evenly into the rice.
Step 5: Combine the soy sauce and sesame oil, then pour over the rice. Stir well to evenly coat all the ingredients with the sauce.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and optional cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice for better texture as it’s less sticky and fries more evenly.
Substitute or add protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Add a dash of white pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Try using brown rice or jasmine rice for different flavors and health benefits.

Storage

Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until steaming hot. Add a splash of water or oil when reheating to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A white skillet filled with fried rice that has about three layers: the main layer of light brown cooked rice mixed with small, bright green peas, diced orange carrots, and dark green chopped scallions, with scrambled eggs in small yellow and white chunks scattered throughout, sprinkled with black pepper. A wooden spoon is partially submerged on the right side, mixing the rice. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface with a gray and white checkered cloth underneath one corner. A small wooden bowl with extra green scallions is partly visible at the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas and carrots work well too. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté slightly longer to ensure they cook through.

Is it necessary to use sesame oil?

Sesame oil adds a nutty depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of toasted oil or omit entirely without greatly affecting the dish.