Craving a delicious and quick meal? Chili Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is your answer! This dish is packed with flavor and easy to make. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create a tasty, satisfying meal using shrimp, rice, garlic, and a kick of chili paste. Plus, you can customize it with extras like veggies or eggs. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
Optional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 2 green onions, sliced
Seasoning and Utilities
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
When making Chili Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice, you’ll need fresh shrimp. Use 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp for a great taste. Jasmine rice works best, so use 2 cups of cooked rice. It’s ideal if the rice is day-old, as it stays fluffy. Garlic adds depth; use 4 cloves minced. For spice, include 2 tablespoons of chili paste, but adjust it based on your heat preference.
You can add optional ingredients for more flavor. If you like, mix in 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Adding 1 cup of mixed veggies, like carrots, peas, or corn, can boost nutrition. Two lightly beaten eggs add richness, while 2 sliced green onions give freshness.
For seasoning, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce brings umami. Use 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil for cooking, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple list of ingredients makes your meal tasty and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Shrimp
To make your shrimp full of flavor, mix them with chili paste and salt. Use 1 tablespoon of chili paste. Let the shrimp sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the flavors time to soak in.
Preparing the Rice
Using day-old rice is key. It stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together. If you use fresh rice, let it cool on a tray to separate the grains. This step helps keep the rice light and airy.
Cooking Sequence
First, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes. They should turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside. Next, add more oil if needed, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them until just set and then transfer them to a plate. After that, add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds. Then, mix in the vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
Combining and Finishing the Dish
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, and the remaining chili paste. Stir well to mix everything. Reintroduce the shrimp and scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finally, add sliced green onions and give it one last mix.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use day-old rice for best results. It helps keep the rice non-sticky.
– If using fresh rice, spread it out on a tray to cool. This helps it fluff up.
– Keep your heat at medium-high. This ensures quick cooking without burning.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adjust the chili paste to suit your taste. More paste means more heat!
– For milder flavors, try using sweet chili sauce instead of chili paste.
– You can swap soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Tamari works well too.
Presentation Suggestions
– Serve your fried rice in colorful bowls. This makes it more inviting.
– Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh look.
– A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch up the shrimp with different proteins.
– Chicken: Use diced chicken breast instead of shrimp. Cook it until golden brown. This adds a nice twist.
– Tofu: For a plant-based option, use firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and sauté until crispy. It absorbs flavors well.
Rice Alternatives
Not a fan of jasmine rice? Try these options.
– Brown rice: This adds a nutty flavor. It takes longer to cook, so plan ahead.
– Quinoa: Quinoa is a great gluten-free choice. It’s packed with protein and cooks quickly.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
You can make this dish fit your diet.
– Using tempeh: Tempeh is a great protein source. Cube it and sauté until golden. It adds a hearty texture.
– Veggie-only adaptations: Skip the shrimp and add more veggies. Use bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. This keeps the dish colorful and tasty.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After enjoying your chili garlic shrimp fried rice, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors intact. Use a container that seals well to prevent air from getting in. In the fridge, your fried rice lasts about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to cool it down before placing it in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a skillet or a microwave. In a skillet, add a splash of water and heat over medium. Stir often to prevent sticking. In the microwave, cover the dish with a lid or a damp paper towel. This keeps moisture in and avoids sogginess. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze chili garlic shrimp fried rice for later. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to keep it fresh. Divide the rice into portions before freezing. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave.
FAQs
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 20 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
What is the best rice for fried rice?
Jasmine rice works best for fried rice. It has a nice texture and flavor. Day-old rice is even better since it’s drier and won’t clump together.
How do I make the dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the chili paste. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste for the right kick.
Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?
Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Both options give the same umami flavor without gluten.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Mix and match to your liking for added color and nutrition.
This blog covered all you need to know for cooking shrimp fried rice. We discussed key ingredients like shrimp, rice, and garlic. You learned step-by-step how to marinate shrimp and fry rice perfectly. We shared helpful tips for flavoring, presentation, and variations for the dish.
In the end, shrimp fried rice is easy and fun to make. You can customize it to fit your taste. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and share your delicious creation!
