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Simple Weeknight Fried Rice


  • Author: Patricia Jannet
  • Total Time: 25
  • Yield: 4 generous bowls (4 servings) — approximately 280 g per bowl 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Fried Rice — perfect for a quick breakfast and weekly meal prep. Makes 4 servings in 25 minutes with 14 simple pantry ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 600 g (3 cups) cooked jasmine rice, chilled overnight
  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut)
  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) light soy sauce
  • 15 ml (1 tbsp) dark soy sauce (optional)
  • 15 ml (1 tbsp) toasted sesame oil
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (approx 100 g total)
  • 120 g (3/4 cup) mixed vegetables (frozen peas and diced carrots)
  • 60 g (1/2 cup) yellow or white onion, finely diced
  • 30 g (3 stalks) scallions, sliced on the bias
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 8 g)
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (about 5 g)
  • 5 g (1 tsp) sugar (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional proteins: 150 g (5 oz) diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or diced ham

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Measure and chop everything so it’s ready to go; this takes about 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the eggs: Heat 1 tsp (5 ml) neutral oil in the wok over high heat until shimmering, about 30–45 seconds. Pour in beaten eggs and stir gently until soft ribbons form, about 30–45 seconds; transfer to a bowl.
  3. Sauté aromatics and vegetables: Add the remaining 1½ tbsp (22 ml) oil to the hot wok, then add 60 g (1/2 cup) diced onion; sauté for 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook until aromatic, about 20–30 seconds. Add mixed vegetables and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Crisp and sear the rice: Increase heat to high and add chilled rice, breaking larger clumps with your spatula. Spread rice in a thin layer and let it sit without stirring for 30–45 seconds to develop a light sear; stir and repeat once more, about 1–2 minutes total.
  5. Season and finish: Drizzle light soy sauce evenly over the rice and sprinkle sugar if using; toss quickly for 30–45 seconds. Add the cooked eggs and optional protein; toss another 30 seconds to combine. Turn off heat and drizzle toasted sesame oil; toss and garnish with scallions.

Notes

  • Refrigerator Storage: Transfer cooled portions to airtight glass containers within 1 hour of cooking. Store in the coldest section of the fridge at or below 4 °C (40 °F). The stir-fry stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Avoid leaving it at room temperature longer than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Freezer Storage: Spread portions on a parchment-lined tray and flash-freeze for 1 hour before transferring to zip-top freezer bags. Press out excess air to prevent freezer burn. Properly sealed portions maintain quality for up to 2 months. Label bags with the preparation date for easy tracking.
  • Oven Reheat: Preheat your oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Spread the refrigerated portion on a rimmed baking sheet, sprinkle with a few drops of water, and cover loosely with foil. Reheat for 12 minutes until steaming throughout. This method restores a slightly crispy texture on the bottom grains.
  • Microwave Reheat: Place one 280 g portion in a microwave-safe bowl and sprinkle 15 ml of water over the top. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on high for 2 minutes, stirring halfway. Let it rest for 30 seconds before eating. The steam from the water revives the grain texture.
  • Air Fryer Reheat: Spread one portion into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set to 180 °C (360 °F) and reheat for 5 minutes, shaking the basket once at the halfway mark. The circulating hot air crisps the outer grains while keeping the center moist—the closest you’ll get to fresh wok-fried texture.
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 generous
  • Calories: 312 calories
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 93mg