Shrimp-Fried Rice

Shrimp-Fried Rice Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shrimp-fried rice is a popular and delicious dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, vegetables, and rice in a savory and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Fried rice is a traditional Chinese dish that dates back to ancient times. It was originally created as a way to use up leftover rice and other ingredients, making it a practical and economical meal. Shrimp-fried rice is a variation of this classic dish that adds shrimp as the main protein, giving it a seafood twist.

Ingredients

6.25 oz (177 g) package fried rice or (6 cups day-old, white rice)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.25 cup sliced green onions
1 garlic clove, minced
0.25 tsp ground ginger
12 oz (340 g) frozen raw, peeled shrimp, thawed
8 oz (227 g) sliced water chestnuts, drained
6 oz (170 g) frozen pea pods, thawed

How to prepare

Prepare the rice according to the package directions, simmering for 15 minutes.
Remove the rice from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm.
In the same skillet, heat the oil over high heat.
Add the green onion, garlic, and ginger, then cook for 1 minute.
Add the shrimp and continue to cook for 2 minutes.
Add the water chestnuts and the prepared rice, then continue to cook for 2 minutes.
Add the pea pods and continue to cook for 2 minutes.
Serve immediately and pair this seafood-based rice with other main dishes.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and flavor.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.
Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein source.

Notes

Instead of preparing rice according to package directions, just have the day-old, white rice ready and cooking before mixing with other ingredients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use cold, cooked rice for this recipe to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

- Use a large skillet or wok to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and evenly.

- Customize the vegetables in this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve shrimp-fried rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique used in this recipe to quickly cook the ingredients over high heat while preserving their texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute any vegetables or protein of your choice in this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for this recipe ahead of time and quickly stir-fry them when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish shrimp-fried rice with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair shrimp-fried rice with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp-fried rice is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and soy (from the soy sauce), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Shrimp-fried rice is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Shrimp-fried rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp-Fried Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins pick fresh vegetables from her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen to show me how to make one of her favorite dishes - Shrimp-Fried Rice.

Mrs. Jenkins was a master in the kitchen, and I was eager to learn from her. She pulled out all the ingredients we would need - shrimp, rice, eggs, vegetables, and a variety of spices. As she walked me through each step of the recipe, I was in awe of her skill and knowledge. She explained how the flavors of the shrimp and vegetables would come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

I watched closely as Mrs. Jenkins expertly chopped the vegetables and cooked the shrimp to perfection. She showed me how to cook the rice just right, so it was fluffy and not too sticky. As we mixed everything together in the wok, the aroma of garlic and ginger filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Once the dish was finished, Mrs. Jenkins plated it up beautifully and we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The flavors were incredible - the sweetness of the shrimp paired perfectly with the savory rice and vegetables. I couldn't believe how delicious it was, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

From that day on, I made it my mission to perfect the recipe for Shrimp-Fried Rice. I asked Mrs. Jenkins for tips and tricks, and she graciously shared her knowledge with me. I experimented with different ingredients and cooking techniques, until I finally found the perfect balance of flavors.

Over the years, I continued to refine my recipe for Shrimp-Fried Rice, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. It became a staple dish at family gatherings and special occasions, always bringing smiles to the faces of those who enjoyed it.

As time went on, I learned more and more recipes from different people and places. Each one held a special place in my heart, but Shrimp-Fried Rice would always be my first love. It was the dish that sparked my passion for cooking, and the one that I would always hold dear.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen preparing a batch of Shrimp-Fried Rice for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile as I remember that warm summer day with Mrs. Jenkins. She may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on in every bite of this delicious dish. And as I watch my grandchildren eagerly dig in and savor each mouthful, I know that the tradition of sharing recipes and passing down culinary knowledge will continue for generations to come.