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If you’ve ever craved a meal that bursts with bold flavors, irresistible textures, and a perfect kick of heat, this Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender, seasoned shrimp with fragrant garlic, crispy scallions, and nutritious brown rice, every bite offers a delightful harmony of smoky, spicy, and savory notes. This dish is not only quick to make but also a crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable feast that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to add depth, color, and texture. From aromatic garlic and scallions to perfectly spiced shrimp and nutty brown rice, every element plays a crucial role in making this dish shine.
- ½ medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the heat.
- 2 cloves garlic (diced): Provides a fragrant base that enhances all other flavors.
- 5 medium scallions (chopped, whites and greens separated): Whites offer aromatic sharpness while greens add fresh color and crunch at the finish.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein delivering tender, juicy bites with a spicy edge.
- 2 large egg whites (beaten): Lightens the dish with fluffy texture.
- 1 large whole egg (beaten): Adds richness and binds the fried rice together.
- 3 cups leftover cooked brown rice: Nutty and wholesome, perfect for absorbing all the spicy sauces.
- ½ teaspoon each of chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder: Creates a robust and well-rounded spice profile for the shrimp.
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste): Kicks up the heat just enough to awaken your taste buds.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors without overpowering.
- Fresh black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle, peppery bite.
- Oil spray: For perfect non-stick cooking without excess oil.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Injects a distinct toasted aroma and depth.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste): Sparks the dish with authentic fiery notes.
- 4 teaspoons soy sauce (or more to taste): Brings umami richness and saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce (or more soy sauce): Adds an extra layer of savory complexity.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This spice blend gives the shrimp that fiery personality that defines the Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe, setting the foundation for all the layers of flavor to come.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray with oil to prevent sticking. Cook the beaten egg whites first, stirring occasionally until just set, then repeat with the whole egg. Removing the eggs from the pan once cooked keeps their texture light and fluffy, ready to fold back into the rice later for a luscious bite.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Turn the heat up to high and add sesame oil to the now-empty wok. Quickly sauté the chopped onions, the white parts of the scallions, diced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes. This step releases their vibrant aromas and infuses the oil with a spicy, fragrant base that will coat everything deliciously.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Introduce the seasoned shrimp to the wok and stir-fry until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Cooking them at high heat ensures they remain tender and juicy without becoming rubbery, all while soaking up that smoky, spicy goodness.
Step 5: Add the Rice and Final Flavors
Next, add the leftover brown rice to the wok, pressing it gently against the surface to allow it to brown slightly for 2-3 minutes. This caramelization gives a wonderful texture and depth to the fried rice. Then, fold in the cooked eggs, adding in the soy sauce and fish sauce. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes until the rice is evenly coated and steaming hot, bursting with tantalizing spice and umami.
Step 6: Finish with Scallion Greens
As the final touch, stir in the scallion greens to add freshness, a pop of color, and a hint of crunch. Your Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed immediately, packed with bold flavors and textures in every mouthful.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped scallion greens or fresh cilantro on top for a burst of herbal brightness. A wedge of lime can also be a fabulous garnish, offering a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness and perfectly balances the heat.
Side Dishes
This spicy fried rice pairs wonderfully with cool, crisp side salads or steamed crunchy vegetables like bok choy or snap peas. If you want to keep things classic, a light miso soup or some pickled vegetables complement the dish beautifully by adding texture and variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe inside a hollowed-out pineapple or bell peppers. You might also turn it into a lettuce wrap filling for a fresh and handheld option, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party or casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option for busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. For best quality, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your fried rice gently in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil as needed to prevent sticking and to revive the moisture. Stir occasionally until warmed through for a meal that tastes just as vibrant as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Absolutely! White rice works just as well in this Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe. Just make sure it’s leftover and thoroughly chilled to avoid mushy results when frying.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate but can be adjusted to your preference. Feel free to add more cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes if you like things hotter or reduce them for a milder dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly and maintain a nice texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?
To make a vegetarian version, swap shrimp for diced firm tofu or chopped vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Just season similarly and cook until golden and flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish without leftover rice?
Leftover rice is ideal because it’s drier and fries better, but you can use freshly cooked rice if you spread it out to cool and dry slightly before using to get the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is a joyous celebration of flavor and ease, proving that a fantastic homemade meal doesn’t require complicated steps or exotic ingredients. I encourage you to dive into your kitchen, whip up this vibrant dish, and savor every spicy, savory bite that makes it a personal favorite. Trust me, it’s destined to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want to impress yourself or your loved ones with something truly delicious.
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Print
Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A flavorful and spicy shrimp fried rice made with seasoned shrimp, aromatic scallions and garlic, and a blend of chili and paprika spices. This quick 20-minute stir-fry uses leftover brown rice, perfectly cooked eggs, and a savory mix of soy sauce and fish sauce for a delicious one-pan meal with a kick.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- ½ medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (diced)
- 5 medium scallions (chopped, whites and greens separated)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
Eggs and Rice
- 2 large egg whites (beaten)
- 1 large whole egg (beaten)
- 3 cups leftover cooked brown rice
Sauces and Oils
- Oil spray (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 teaspoons soy sauce (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce (or more soy sauce as substitute)
Instructions
- Season Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and fresh black pepper. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly with the spices.
- Cook Eggs: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and spray lightly with oil. Cook the beaten egg whites and whole egg separately, stirring gently until they are just set. Remove the cooked eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Increase the heat to high and add sesame oil to the wok. Add the chopped onion, scallion whites, diced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the onions are slightly softened.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through.
- Add Rice: Stir in the leftover brown rice, spreading it out so the bottom can brown slightly. Cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring too frequently to develop a slight crust.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked eggs back into the wok along with soy sauce and fish sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Stir in the scallion greens and remove from heat. Serve the spicy shrimp fried rice immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked rice that is cold for best texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne and crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- If fish sauce is unavailable or undesired, increase soy sauce to taste.
- Cooking the eggs separately allows better texture and prevents overcooking in the stir-fry.
- Use a wok or large skillet for best stir-fry results and even cooking.
