Classic Fried Rice Recipe

Downshiftology

Video Stats

Channel: Downshiftology
Host: Downshiftology
Published: Jun 21, 2025
Views: 284.6k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 15 min
Difficulty: Beginner
Serves: 4

Overview

Fried rice is a beloved dish that brings comfort and versatility to the table. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a satisfying meal. The use of day-old rice is crucial, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy and allows for that delightful stir-fried texture. The combination of diced carrots, onions, and peas not only adds color but also a variety of flavors and nutrients.

One of the standout features of this fried rice is the method of cooking. By sautéing the vegetables first and then scrambling the eggs right alongside them, you save time and reduce the number of dishes to clean. This technique is reminiscent of traditional Thai stir-fries, where efficiency meets flavor.

The addition of tamari soy sauce and toasted sesame oil at the end elevates the dish, giving it that rich umami flavor that fried rice is known for. Whether you serve it as a side or as a main dish, this fried rice recipe is sure to impress. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a part of a larger spread during family gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand, making it both economical and delicious.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:24

Dice one large carrot or two smaller ones.

2
00:52

Dice half of a small yellow onion.

3
01:02

Thinly slice four green onions and separate the green and white parts.

4
01:17

Place diced carrots, onion, and white parts of green onion in one bowl, and green parts in another.

5
01:39

Add about 1/2 teaspoon of freshly minced ginger.

6
01:51

Measure out a cup of frozen peas.

7
02:12

Crack three large eggs into a bowl and lightly beat them.

8
02:20

Use day-old rice for the recipe.

02:20

Tip: Use day-old rice for easier stir-frying.

02:52

Tip: Spread cooked rice on a sheet pan to cool quickly for food safety.

9
03:05

Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.

10
03:13

Add two tablespoons of high-heat oil like avocado oil.

11
03:15

Add diced carrots and onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

12
03:22

Add two minced garlic cloves and the minced ginger, and sauté for another 30 seconds.

13
03:35

Use a spatula to push the veggies to one side of the pan.

14
04:01

Scramble the eggs next to the veggies.

15
04:03

Add the peas and four cups of cooked day-old rice.

16
04:14

Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

17
04:34

Add three tablespoons of tamari soy sauce and two teaspoons of toasted sesame oil.

18
04:45

Season with kosher salt and finely-ground white pepper to taste.

04:48

Tip: Add just a pinch of white pepper to avoid overpowering the dish.

19
05:04

Stir to coat each rice kernel in the sauce.

20
05:06

Add the green parts of the green onion as a garnish.

21
05:09

Remove the fried rice from heat to serve.

05:14

Tip: A carbon steel wok is great for making stir-fries.

22
05:56

Scoop fried rice into a small bowl, pack it in, and invert onto a plate.

05:56

Tip: For a fancier presentation, invert fried rice from a bowl onto a plate.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Carrot1 large
Onion1/2 small
Green Onion4
Peas1 cup
Garlic2 cloves
Ginger1/2 tsp
Soy Sauce3 tbsp
Sesame Oil2 tsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Soy

    → Substitution: Coconut Aminos

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
12
per serving
Carbs
60
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Beginner
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Using day-old rice helps achieve the perfect texture for fried rice.
  • Adding ginger enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
  • Cooking the vegetables before scrambling the eggs minimizes dirty dishes.
  • Tamari soy sauce is a gluten-free alternative to regular soy sauce.