When you need a quick, comforting meal that can be made with simple ingrediants already in your kitchen, egg fried rice is the answer. This dish is a classic for good reason: it’s versatile, packed with flavor, and comes together in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner on a busy evening or making use of leftover rice, this recipe delivers a warm, filling plate that never disappoints.
The combination of fluffy rice, golden scrambled egg, and a handful of vegetables makes this both satisfying and nourishing. You can keep it simple with onions and peas or customize it with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Best of all, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick and easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Flexible: Works with leftover rice, different vegetables, or added proteins.
- Perfect for dinner: A complete meal in one bowl.
- Comforting flavor: Savory soy sauce, tender eggs, and fluffy rice create a timeless taste.
Ingredients
To prepare this easy egg fried rice for dinner, gather:
- 1 cup uncooked instant rice (or leftover cooked rice works even better)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (sunflower, canola, or olive oil can also be used)
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup peas or sliced green beans
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
These simple ingrediants balance starch, protein, and vegetables, creating a wholesome and satisfying base meal.
Instructions
1. Prepare the rice
In a medium saucepan, bring the water, soy sauce, and salt to a boil. Stir in the uncooked instant rice, remove the pot from the heat, and cover with a lid. Let the rice steam and absorb the liquid for 5 minutes. If you’re using leftover cooked rice, simply set it aside until needed.
2. Cook the vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and peas (or green beans) to the hot oil. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the vegetables are tender yet slightly crisp.
3. Add the egg
Pour the beaten egg directly into the pan with the vegetables. Allow it to cook briefly, then scramble it gently with a spatula. Break it into small golden curds, ensuring it’s mixed evenly with the onion and peas. The scrambled egg brings richness and protein to the dish.
4. Combine with rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps, mixing it well with the egg and vegetables. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb flavor and develop a slightly toasted texture. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve
Spoon the hot egg fried rice into bowls and serve immediately. It can be enjoyed as a complete dinner on its own or paired with grilled meat, tofu, or a light soup.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations to suit your dinner table:
- Extra vegetables: Add carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for color and nutrition.
- Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.
- Seasoning twist: Add a dash of sesame oil, ginger, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Whole grain option: Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier variation.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply return the rice to a skillet and warm over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce.
- This dish can also be portioned and frozen for future quick dinners.
Final Thoughts
This egg fried rice is proof that a few simple ingrediants can come together to make a comforting, balanced, and delicious dinner. The tender grains of rice, the soft scrambled egg, and the burst of vegetables combine into a dish that feels both familiar and satisfying.
It’s an easy recipe to keep in your back pocket for weeknights, and it’s versatile enough to change based on what’s in your fridge. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish alongside stir-fried vegetables or grilled meat, this egg fried rice will always bring warmth and flavor to your dinner table.
