Prawn Fried Rice Recipe

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Prawn Fried Rice Recipe: Irresistibly Juicy & Creamy!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine a steaming plate of Prawn Fried Rice, where each grain of rice glistens with a savory sheen, and the succulent prawns are perfectly cooked to a tender pink. The aroma of garlic wafts through the air, mingling with the nutty scent of sesame oil, creating an irresistible invitation to dig in. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that evoke memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this Prawn Fried Rice is the perfect centerpiece that brings everyone together, making it a beloved staple in many households.

Why You’ll Love This Prawn Fried Rice Recipe

  • Texture Contrast: The combination of tender prawns, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables creates a delightful contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
  • Flavor Balance: The umami richness of soy sauce, the aromatic garlic, and the subtle nuttiness of sesame oil harmonize beautifully, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
  • Versatility: This recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
  • Ease of Preparation: With a quick cooking time and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Universal Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, this Prawn Fried Rice is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

  • Large Skillet: Essential for even cooking and accommodating all ingredients without overcrowding.
  • Spatula: Necessary for stirring and scrambling eggs without damaging the rice.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Important for accurate ingredient quantities to ensure balanced flavors.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: Required for chopping vegetables and prawns efficiently.
  • Mixing Bowl: Useful for beating eggs before adding them to the skillet, ensuring they cook evenly.
  • Colander: Handy for rinsing prawns if needed, ensuring they are clean and ready for cooking.
  • Prep Containers: Helpful for organizing pre-chopped vegetables and measured ingredients, streamlining the cooking process.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This Prawn Fried Rice

  • Prawns (300g): The star protein, providing a juicy and succulent bite.
  • Rice (2 cups, cooked and cooled): The base of the dish; day-old rice is preferred for its drier texture, preventing clumping.
  • Vegetables:
    • Frozen Peas and Carrots (1 cup): Adds sweetness and color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
    • Bell Pepper (1, diced): Contributes crunch and a slight sweetness.
    • Green Onions (2, chopped): Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor as a garnish.
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
  • Soy Sauce (4 tablespoons): Provides umami and saltiness, essential for flavor.
  • Sesame Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a nutty richness that elevates the dish.
  • Eggs (2, beaten): Contributes creaminess and protein, binding the ingredients together.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Prawn Fried Rice

  1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Cook Prawns: Stir in the prawns and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked through but not rubbery.
  4. Scramble Eggs: Push the prawns to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling them until fully cooked.
  5. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the frozen peas and carrots, and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Mix in Rice: Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and remaining sesame oil, mixing everything thoroughly for about 5 minutes until heated through.
  7. Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to your preference.
  8. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

  • Make-Ahead Instructions: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
  • Equipment Recommendations: A non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Customization Options: Feel free to substitute prawns with chicken, tofu, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

  • Using Freshly Cooked Rice: This can lead to clumping; always use day-old rice for the best texture.
  • Overcooking Prawns: They should be just cooked through to avoid a rubbery texture; keep an eye on them.
  • Not Heating the Skillet Enough: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding ingredients to prevent soggy rice.
  • Skipping Garlic: It adds essential flavor; don’t omit it for a bland dish.
  • Adding Too Much Soy Sauce: This can make the dish overly salty; measure carefully to maintain balance.
  • Not Stirring Enough: Keep the ingredients moving to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  • Using Too Many Vegetables: This can overwhelm the dish; stick to the recommended amounts for balance.

Creative Variations & Customizations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace prawns with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
  • Spicy Prawn Fried Rice: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha for heat.
  • Coconut Fried Rice: Use coconut oil instead of sesame oil and add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
  • Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus for freshness.
  • Herb-Infused Rice: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic touch.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Prawn Fried Rice

  • Sweet Chili Sauce: A perfect dipping sauce that adds a sweet and spicy kick.
  • Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the fried rice.
  • Miso Soup: Complements the meal with a light, savory broth.
  • Crispy Fried Shallots: Adds texture and flavor when sprinkled on top.
  • Spring Rolls: A delightful appetizer that pairs well with the main dish.
  • Chilled Riesling: A glass of this wine enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing note.
  • Pickled Vegetables: Offers a tangy contrast that brightens the meal.
  • Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds a zesty finish that elevates the dish.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Serving Size 1 cup
Calories 350
Sugar 3 grams
Sodium 800 milligrams
Fat 10 grams
Saturated Fat 1.5 grams
Unsaturated Fat 8 grams
Trans Fat 0 grams
Carbohydrates 45 grams
Fiber 2 grams
Protein 20 grams
Cholesterol 150 milligrams

Health Insights: This dish is rich in protein from the prawns and eggs, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. The use of gluten-free soy sauce makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use fresh prawns instead of frozen? Yes, fresh prawns can be used, but ensure they are properly cleaned and deveined.
  2. What if I don’t have day-old rice? If you must use freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out for about 30 minutes before using.
  3. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute prawns with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
  4. How can I make it spicier? Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha during cooking for an extra kick.
  5. What can I use instead of soy sauce? Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce.
  6. How do I prevent the rice from sticking? Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the rice and stir frequently.
  7. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, but be mindful not to overwhelm the dish; stick to a balanced amount.
  8. How long does it take to cook? The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

Cooking can be a joyful and rewarding experience, and this Prawn Fried Rice recipe is a perfect way to build your kitchen confidence. As you master this dish, remember that every meal is an opportunity to express your creativity and share love with those around you. Celebrate your culinary achievements, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Now, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delicious journey begin!

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Prawn Fried Rice Recipe: Irresistibly Juicy & Creamy!


  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

This Prawn Fried Rice is a delightful medley of succulent prawns and perfectly cooked rice, infused with a savory blend of soy sauce and aromatic garlic. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the vegetables, complemented by the rich umami flavor that lingers on the palate.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Prawns: 300g, peeled and deveined
  • Rice: 2 cups, cooked and cooled (preferably day-old)
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup peas and carrots, frozen
    • 1 bell pepper, diced
    • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Soy Sauce: 4 tablespoons
  • Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Eggs: 2, beaten
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the prawns and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Push the prawns to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling them until fully cooked.
  5. Add the frozen peas and carrots, diced bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and remaining sesame oil, mixing everything thoroughly for about 5 minutes until heated through.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For best results, use day-old rice as it is drier and prevents clumping.
  • Substitute prawns with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: main-dish
  • Method: stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3 grams
  • Sodium: 800 milligrams
  • Fat: 10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 45 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Cholesterol: 150 milligrams

Keywords: Prawn Fried Rice Recipe, fried rice, prawn recipes, Asian cuisine, quick meals, easy dinner, seafood recipes, stir-fry, rice dishes, healthy meals, gluten-free recipes, savory rice, comfort food

Credit by:

Sophie

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