When it comes to Chinese comfort food, there’s one dish that always hits the spot: shrimp fried rice. This classic recipe has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for generations, and for good reason – it’s a flavorful, filling, and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through China, exploring 18 authentic shrimp fried rice recipes from different regions and cultures. From the spicy kick of Sichuan Shrimp Fried Rice to the sweet and savory flavors of Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering dishes.
Classic Yangzhou Shrimp Fried Rice
This iconic Chinese dish originated from Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, and has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants worldwide. Our recipe brings the authentic flavors of Yangzhou to your kitchen with succulent shrimp, savory vegetables, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until rice is heated through and slightly caramelized.
6. Return cooked shrimp to the pan; stir-fry everything together.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Cantonese-Style Shrimp Fried Rice with Char Siu
A classic Chinese dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, sweet char siu pork, and savory fried rice. This recipe is a staple in many Cantonese households and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup char siu pork, diced
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side. Crack an egg into the empty side and scramble until cooked through. Mix with the vegetables.
4. Add the char siu pork and shrimp; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until the rice is heated through and combined with the other ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sichuan Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy shrimp fried rice recipe, which combines succulent shrimp, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices. This dish is a perfect blend of Chinese and Western culinary influences.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from wok and set aside.
4. In the same wok, add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Add mixed vegetables, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
6. Add cooked rice to wok; stir-fry until combined with vegetable mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Return shrimp to the wok; stir-fry until evenly distributed.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and satisfying dish that combines succulent shrimp, savory garlic butter, and a hint of Asian-inspired spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for another minute, combining all ingredients.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
X.O. Sauce Shrimp Fried Rice
Transform plain fried rice into a flavorful dish with the addition of succulent shrimp and savory X.O. sauce. This recipe combines the comforting familiarity of Chinese-style fried rice with the richness of seafood.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup X.O. sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other side and scramble it until cooked through. Mix with the vegetables.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the X.O. sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice
A sweet and savory twist on a classic Chinese dish, this Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice recipe combines juicy shrimp, crunchy pineapple, and flavorful vegetables with a hint of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and sauté mixed vegetables for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and cooked shrimp to the rice mixture. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Fold in diced pineapple and chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Shrimp Fried Rice with Basil
A flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this dish combines succulent shrimp, savory herbs, and aromatic spices to create a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Return shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped basil and scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jumbo Shrimp and Scallop Fried Rice
A flavorful and filling dish that combines succulent jumbo shrimp, tender scallops, and savory fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with veggies.
4. Push rice mixture to one side of the pan; add remaining oil if needed.
5. Add jumbo shrimp and scallops; cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Combine shrimp and scallops with rice mixture; stir-fry for another minute.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Black Pepper Shrimp Fried Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of black pepper, succulent shrimp, and savory fried rice for a delicious and quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 teaspoon of oil, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the rice is well coated with the flavors.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Shrimp Fried Rice with Turmeric
This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp, flavorful turmeric, and fluffy fried rice for a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add cooked rice, turmeric powder, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Kimchi Shrimp Fried Rice
Kimchi Shrimp Fried Rice: A Spicy Twist on a Classic
Get ready to level up your fried rice game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of shrimp with the spicy kick of kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and kimchi to the same pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Mix the egg with the kimchi mixture.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, combining the rice with the kimchi and egg mixture.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Jasmine Tea-Infused Shrimp Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this unique and flavorful recipe, where the delicate notes of jasmine tea complement succulent shrimp and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Jasmine tea leaves (about 10-12 leaves)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), white pepper, and salt. Stir-fry for another minute.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the pan and stir in jasmine tea leaves. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the tea’s flavor to infuse.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Shanghai-Style Shrimp Fried Rice with Peas
This recipe combines the classic Chinese dish of fried rice with succulent shrimp and sweet peas, giving you a delicious and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and textures, this Shanghai-style shrimp fried rice is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 cup diced shrimp
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the remaining oil, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the peas, garlic, cooked rice, and cooked shrimp to the pan. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Five-Spice Shrimp Fried Rice
This Chinese-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with savory five-spice powder and fluffy fried rice, making for a quick and delicious meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in five-spice powder and cooked shrimp. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through and combined with other ingredients.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Hong Kong-Style Shrimp Fried Rice with Egg Ribbons
This classic Cantonese dish combines succulent shrimp, fluffy eggs, and savory rice in a flavorful wok-fried mixture. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan.
3. Push cooked rice to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the empty half of the pan and scramble them. Once set, mix eggs with rice.
4. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and cooked shrimp to the wok. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until combined.
5. Season with soy sauce to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Shrimp Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Lemongrass Shrimp Fried Rice combines succulent shrimp with a fragrant lemongrass broth and savory fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the lemongrass, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Oil Shrimp Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with spicy chili oil and savory soy sauce for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Push the shrimp to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it with a spatula.
6. Mix the egg into the shrimp and then stir-fry everything together with cooked rice, soy sauce, and chili oil. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Shrimp Fried Rice with Scallions
Transform leftover rice into a mouthwatering dish by adding succulent shrimp and crunchy scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables aside and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
4. Crack in the egg and scramble it until cooked through; mix with the vegetables.
5. Add cooked rice to the wok or skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
7. Add crispy fried shrimp, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of China with these 18 authentic shrimp fried rice recipes! From classic Yangzhou to spicy Sichuan, and from Cantonese-style char siu to Thai-inspired basil, there’s a flavor profile for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for garlic butter, X.O. sauce, or pineapple, this comprehensive list has got you covered. With an array of ingredients and cooking methods, these recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary journey across China. Try one (or all!) today and experience the rich flavors and textures of authentic Chinese cuisine!
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