Egg fried rice is one of those dishes I cook for my partner when I’m exhausted and need to whip up something quickly.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a last-minute meal idea, or a way to use up leftover rice, it’s a staple in so many households.
For me, egg fried rice takes me back to my childhood.
I remember watching my mom effortlessly stir-fry leftover rice with eggs, soy sauce, and just a few simple ingredients, turning them into something magical.
I always thought that it was an elaborate dish, but I was wrong.
It was one of the first dishes I learned to cook on my own, and to this day, it’s my go-to whenever my partner or I crave something quick, filling, and full of flavor.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity.
You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients—just rice, eggs, soy sauce, and a few aromatics. But the secret to truly great fried rice isn’t just the ingredients; it’s the technique.
Using cold, day-old rice gives it the perfect texture, while a hot wok or skillet ensures you get that irresistible smoky flavor known as “wok hei.”
If you’ve ever wondered why restaurant-style fried rice tastes so good, this is the reason. In this post, I’ll share all my best tips to make your egg fried rice just as flavorful as your favorite takeout, with some easy variations to make it your own.
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Before we dive in, here are some of my favorite kitchen tools and ingredients for making the best fried rice:
- The best rice cooker for making the perfect rice every time
- My favorite non-stick wok for perfect stir-frying
- A high-quality soy sauce for deep, umami-rich flavor
Tips for the best egg fried rice:
- Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice will be too soft and can turn mushy.
- If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to dry it out slightly.
- A hot pan is key to achieving that signature smoky wok flavor. If using a non-stick pan, medium-high heat is best to prevent burning.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain the right texture.
- Add a pinch of sugar for a subtle balance of flavors, especially if using a darker soy sauce.
Simple Egg Fried Rice – Super Delicious
Course: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes10
minutesIngredients
2 cups cooked, cold rice (preferably day-old)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup frozen peas (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
½ teaspoon white pepper (optional)
Directions
- Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of oil. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and let them set for a few seconds before gently scrambling. When they are just cooked but still soft, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced garlic for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, making sure the rice gets coated in the oil and starts to crisp up slightly.
- Push the rice to one side of the pan and pour in the soy sauce, letting it sizzle for a few seconds before mixing it in. This technique helps intensify the umami flavor. Add in the cooked eggs, peas, and half of the green onions, stirring everything together for another minute.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A final drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of white pepper will take your fried rice to the next level. Stir once more, then remove from heat and garnish with the remaining green onions. Serve hot and enjoy.
- You can make this dish once a week, it’s so easy and quick!
Variations & Substitutions
For extra protein, add shrimp, diced chicken, or tofu along with the eggs.
Want more veggies? Toss in carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a colorful mix.
Replace white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Add a spicy kick with a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
This Egg Fried Rice is the perfect comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, all in one pan.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just enjoying it by yourself, I hope you love it!
