Description
A flavorful and spicy shrimp fried rice recipe that uses leftover brown rice and a blend of spices for a quick and satisfying meal. This dish features perfectly cooked shrimp, aromatic garlic, scallions, and a balanced mix of chili powder, paprika, and cayenne for a delicious kick. Ideal for a fast weeknight dinner, it delivers vibrant Asian-inspired flavors with juicy shrimp and fluffy rice, all cooked in a wok for that perfect texture and char.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- fresh black pepper (to taste)
Rice and Eggs
- 3 cups leftover brown rice (cooked)
- 2 large egg whites (beaten)
- 1 large whole egg (beaten)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (diced)
- 5 medium scallions (chopped, whites and greens separated)
Oils and Sauces
- oil spray (for cooking)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- 4 tsp soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 1 tsp Asian fish sauce (or more soy sauce)
Instructions
- Season the shrimp. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with cayenne pepper, chili powder, paprika, kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to evenly coat all the shrimp with the spices.
- Cook the eggs. Heat a wok over medium-high heat and spray lightly with oil. Pour in the beaten egg whites and whole egg, cooking until set but still tender, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove the cooked eggs from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and spices. Increase the heat to high and add sesame oil to the wok. Sauté the chopped onion, scallion whites, diced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook the shrimp. Add the seasoned shrimp to the wok and sauté until the shrimp are no longer translucent and cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add rice and combine. Stir in the leftover brown rice, pressing it down to allow the bottom layer to brown slightly in the wok, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir the rice, add the cooked eggs back in along with soy sauce and fish sauce, mixing thoroughly for another 2 minutes to ensure even coating of flavors.
- Finish with scallion greens. Toss in the chopped scallion greens, mix briefly, then remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Using leftover cold rice helps achieve the best texture and prevents mushiness.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- If fish sauce is unavailable, increase soy sauce quantity or use a vegetarian alternative.
- Spraying oil ensures a light coating and less grease in the dish.
- Use a wok or a large skillet for even cooking and to develop the authentic fried rice flavor.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian