Shrimp fried rice

Prawn fried rice shrimp bowls

King prawns fried rice, Stir Fry by CK

Khao Phat Kung

Shrimp Fried Rice is a popular dish originating from Chinese cuisine, but it has gained international fame due to its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste. This dish is a combination of rice, shrimp, vegetables, and sometimes egg, all stir-fried together in a wok or frying pan. It is often seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other seasonings to enhance its flavor. Shrimp Fried Rice is a staple in many Chinese restaurants worldwide and is a favorite in home cooking for its simplicity and the ability to use leftover ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Shrimp Fried Rice include:

• Cooked rice - Typically, day-old rice is preferred as it is less sticky and makes for a better texture.
• Shrimp - Peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used.
• Vegetables - Common choices include peas, carrots, onions, and green onions.
• Eggs - Beaten and scrambled in the same pan.
• Soy sauce - For seasoning. Oyster sauce or sesame oil can also be used for additional flavor.
• Oil - For frying, with sesame oil being a popular choice for its nutty flavor.

Preparation

The preparation of Shrimp Fried Rice involves several steps:

1. Cooking the rice beforehand and letting it cool. Day-old rice from the refrigerator works best as it is less moist and sticky.
2. Heating oil in a wok or large frying pan and stir-frying the shrimp until they are pink and cooked through. Once done, they are removed and set aside.
3. In the same pan, additional oil is added if necessary, and the vegetables are stir-fried until just tender.
4. The cooked rice is then added to the pan with the vegetables and stir-fried, breaking up any clumps.
5. The beaten eggs are poured over the rice and quickly scrambled until cooked through.
6. The shrimp is added back into the pan, and everything is mixed together.
7. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sesame oil according to taste and stir-fried until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serving

Shrimp Fried Rice is typically served hot as a main dish. It can be garnished with additional green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for extra flavor and visual appeal. It is often accompanied by other dishes in a multi-course meal or enjoyed on its own.

Variations

There are numerous variations of Shrimp Fried Rice, depending on regional preferences and available ingredients. Some might include different types of seafood, such as crab or lobster, while others might incorporate a variety of meats like chicken or pork. Vegetarian versions can be made by omitting the shrimp and adding more vegetables or tofu.