The EASIEST Fried Rice Recipe!

Fried rice is one of those dishes that is both comforting and versatile, and this simple version is a perfect example. With just a handful of ingredients – garlic, ginger, green onions, peas and carrots, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil – this recipe transforms plain rice into a fragrant, flavorful side dish in minutes.

I love using a high-quality butter instead of oil to cook everything together. It gives it a subtle richness, while the soy sauce and sesame oil provide that classic umami flavor. The best part is that it’s quick, approachable, and pairs perfectly with stir-fried meats or vegetables, making it a go-to weeknight staple.

Even though this fried rice is intentionally simple, it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can stick to the basic version for a clean, bright flavor, or use it as a canvas to get creative. Ingredients like proteins, vegetables, or even nuts can be tossed in to elevate the dish and make it more substantial. The result is a customizable fried rice that’s ready in about 15 minutes but tastes like it took much longer to prepare.

Ingredients:

• Butter: Adds fat for cooking and a subtle richness; butter gives a slightly creamy, savory flavor.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic depth and a bold, savory punch that infuses the rice.
• Ginger: Adds a fresh, warm, slightly spicy note that balances the richness of the butter and soy sauce.
• Rice: The base of the dish; chilled, day-old rice works best for separate, non-mushy grains.
• Green Onions: Provide mild onion flavor and a pop of color, brightening the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami, giving the fried rice that classic savory flavor.
• Sesame Oil: Adds nutty aroma and richness, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots: Contribute sweetness, color, and texture.

Optional Add-Ins:

This basic fried rice is a blank canvas that lets you adapt it to whatever you have on hand while still delivering a savory, comforting, and satisfying dish every time. I honestly switch up my fried rice a lot based on what ingredients I have in my fridge that I need to use up. Here are some other ingredients I sometimes like to add to fried rice:

• Proteins: diced chicken, shrimp, tofu, or scrambled eggs
• Vegetables: bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, corn, or baby corn
• Aromatics & Herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, or extra green onions
• Crunch & Flavor: roasted cashews, peanuts, sesame seeds
• Sauces & Seasonings: hoisin, oyster sauce, chili paste, or a drizzle of sriracha

The EASIEST Fried Rice Recipe!

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Kyrié the Foodié
• Total Time: 10 minutes

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Description

A simple, fragrant, savory fried rice with garlic, ginger, vegetables, and a hint of sesame, perfect as a side or a base for stir-fry dishes.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp butter or neutral oil (I personally prefer butter!)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Large handful of bean sprouts
• 1 cup day-old cooked rice (Jasmine rice is ideal, but any type can be subbed!)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce (or substitute regular soy sauce)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter (or heat oil) over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and green onions, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in the frozen peas + carrots. Stir for 2 – 3 minutes until heated through.
4. Stir in the rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook for 2 – 3 minutes, letting it get lightly toasted.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and dark soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Add bean sprouts and stir well to coat evenly and cook for 1 more minute.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately as a side or base for stir-fry dishes.

Notes

• Cook rice a day ahead and chill it in the fridge: cold rice firms up, making it easier to fry without clumping.
• Avoid freshly cooked hot rice unless you spread it on a tray to cool first – hot rice tends to clump and steam instead of fry.
• If you want a slightly nutty flavor, you can lightly toast the rice in the pan for a minute before adding aromatics.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2