Pin Shrimp Fried Garlic Rice is my go-to for fast dinners when I crave something fresh and flavorful. The combination of juicy shrimp, punchy garlic, and sweet veggies tossed with tender jasmine rice makes this an effortless crowd-pleaser. It comes together so quickly that I often whip it up for surprise guests or busy weeknights.
The first time I made this was after a long day I wanted something satisfying but not heavy and this shrimp rice truly hit the spot. Now it is regular comfort food that always leaves everyone happy.
Ingredients
- Medium shrimp: choose fresh or frozen peeled and deveined shrimp for best texture
- Cooked jasmine rice: slightly dry chilled rice works best for separating grains and avoiding mushiness
- Garlic: using fresh cloves gives rich aroma do not skip for authentic flavor
- Green onions: sliced both white and green parts for bite and garnish
- Frozen peas and carrots: thawed for quick color and a touch of sweetness
- Soy sauce: opt for low sodium if you prefer lighter flavor base
- Oyster sauce: deepens umami and adds glossy finish look for quality brands
- Toasted sesame oil: brings subtle smokiness select pure sesame oil for extra fragrance
- Black pepper: freshly ground gives a mild kick
- Large eggs: for creamy richness lightly beaten for fluffiness
- Vegetable oil: neutral option helps fry without overpowering taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Base:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high. Add half the minced garlic and stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step creates a direct aromatic base that flavors the oil and rice.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add shrimp to the pan with fragrant garlic. Stir-fry quickly for about two to three minutes turning pieces occasionally so all sides turn pink and just cooked through. Promptly remove shrimp to a bowl to avoid overcooking.
- Layer Aromatics:
- Pour the remaining oil into the pan. Scatter in the rest of the minced garlic and only the white parts of the green onions. Let them sizzle for half a minute until the aroma lifts. This blooming step concentrates the taste that will infuse the rice.
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Move aromatics to one side of the pan and pour in the lightly beaten eggs. Let them sit for three to five seconds before gently stirring and scrambling. Take care not to overcook so the eggs stay soft and creamy. Once just set combine with the aromatics.
- Toss in Rice and Veggies:
- Add chilled jasmine rice along with thawed peas and carrots. Break up any rice clumps with the spatula pressing gently. Stir-fry for two to three minutes making sure grains are heated through and veggies are integrated.
- Combine Shrimp and Flavors:
- Return cooked shrimp to the pan. Splash in soy sauce oyster sauce toasted sesame oil and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so the flavors coat every grain and ingredient. Continue stir-frying for another two minutes until glossy and hot.
- Final Touch and Garnish:
- Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed with extra soy or pepper. Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green part of the onions over the top for freshness and color.
Pin Shrimp has always been a treat in my family and I love how its sweetness pulls out the deep savor of garlic in this recipe. When my kids smell the rice sizzling they flock to the kitchen this dish always brings us together for cheerful meals.
Storage Tips
Cool the rice dish quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For best results reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water. I never recommend reheating seafood more than once but eggs and veg hold up fine.
Substitutions and Variations
Swap out the shrimp for diced chicken tofu or even just extra vegetables for vegetarian options. For bolder flavors feel free to use chili oil in place of vegetable oil or add a squeeze of lime for tang. I have also tried brown rice and it tastes fantastic.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp Fried Garlic Rice works wonderfully with a side of crunchy cucumber or a light miso soup. Add a sprinkle of roasted sesame seeds or pair with kimchi for extra layers of flavor and texture.
Cultural and Historical Notes
Fried rice is a beloved dish across Asia with every region putting its own spin based on local ingredients. This version is inspired by Southeast Asian street food where quick stir-frying and bold aromatics keep flavors fresh and balanced.
Pin This shrimp fried garlic rice recipe is quick comforting and endlessly adaptable. Bright veggies and a punch of garlic make it a sure favorite for gatherings or weeknight ease.