thai fried rice with shrimp recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best thai fried rice with shrimp recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the rich culinary history of Thai cuisine, and one dish that never fails to impress me is Thai Fried Rice with Shrimp. This beloved dish has its roots in the streets of Bangkok, where vendors would serve it as a quick and affordable meal for workers and travelers. The combination of savory meat, sweet shrimp, and aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic at the same time.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make this recipe at home. The key to success lies in the technique of stir-frying the ingredients quickly over high heat, which helps to preserve the texture and color of each component. This technique requires some practice, but trust me, it’s worth it!

With every bite, you’ll taste the harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a staple in Thai cuisine. My kids love helping me cook this recipe because it’s so much fun to watch the ingredients come together. They love being able to customize their own portion with extra shrimp or vegetables.

And let’s be honest – who doesn’t love a good plate of fried rice? It’s comfort food at its best. One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility.

You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish, depending on your preference. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite protein sources or vegetables.

This recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, Thai Fried Rice with Shrimp is sure to impress.

Thai Fried Rice with Shrimp

4.8 from 1352 votes

This Thai fried rice with shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish made with jasmine rice, succulent shrimp, and classic Thai seasonings. The combination of fish sauce, lime, and fresh herbs creates a balanced savory and tangy taste.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

3 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, thinly sliced
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
3 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon white pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper until the sugar dissolves.
2Set the sauce aside.
3Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok over high heat until shimmering.
4Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then transfer to a plate.
5Reduce heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
6Sauté garlic and shallot for 30 seconds until fragrant, then push them to one side of the wok.
7Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the wok and scramble for 1 minute until just set.
8Add the rice and stir-fry for 3 minutes, breaking up any clumps, until the rice is hot and slightly crispy.
9Pour the prepared sauce over the rice and toss to combine.
10Add the cooked shrimp, peas and carrots, and green onions, then stir-fry for 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
11Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
12Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

🔧Equipment

Large wok or skillet
Spatula
Small bowl
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 220mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For best results, use day-old refrigerated jasmine rice to prevent stickiness. Adjust fish sauce to taste for saltiness.

Watch Video Of How Thai Fried Rice with Shrimp Works

This Thai fried rice with shrimp is always a good idea for any occasion because it comes together in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients you probably already have. It works perfectly for family gatherings because everyone loves the familiar fried rice base with the exciting Thai flavors. I often double the recipe for potlucks and it disappears fast.

For storage let the fried rice cool completely then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat I use a hot skillet with a splash of water to steam the rice back to fluffy texture.

You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for two minutes. Serve it with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro on the side for a bright finish. This recipe is a keeper for busy weeknights and special dinners alike.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Fried Rice with Shrimp

Q: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use jasmine rice or another long-grain variety that’s specifically labeled as ‘stir-fry’ or ‘Thai-style.’ This type of rice is designed to hold its shape after cooking and will give your fried rice the perfect texture.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

A: While fresh shrimp is always preferred, frozen shrimp will still yield great results. Just make sure to thaw them first before using them in the recipe.

Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

A: To prevent overcooking, cook the shrimp separately from the rest of the ingredients until they’re just pink and then set them aside until you’re ready to add them back into the pan.

Q: What if I don’t have fish sauce? Can I substitute it with something else?

A: Fish sauce is an essential component in many Thai recipes, including this one. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and lime juice (about 1 tablespoon soy sauce + 1 tablespoon lime juice). However, keep in mind that this substitution will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s technically possible to make this recipe ahead of time, I recommend against it unless you’re planning to refrigerate or freeze individual components separately. Otherwise, your fried rice may become soggy or lose its texture.

Q: What if I want to add extra protein sources like chicken or pork?

A: You can easily add extra protein sources like diced chicken or pork to your fried rice mixture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on how much additional protein you add.

Similar Posts