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Crispy Leftover Rice Fried Rice Recipe Easy 5-Step Guide for Perfect Results

crispy leftover rice fried rice - featured image

A quick and easy fried rice recipe using leftover rice that delivers crispy, savory, and satisfying results with simple ingredients and a straightforward 5-step method.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups leftover cooked rice (about 720 g), preferably refrigerated overnight
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola or peanut oil)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 green onions, sliced thin
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (or fresh diced carrots, peas, and corn)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Kikkoman preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu

Instructions

  1. Prep the Rice and Veggies (5 minutes): Take 3 cups (about 720 g) of cold leftover rice out of the fridge. Break up any clumps gently with your fingers or a fork. Dice or slice 3 green onions and mince 3 garlic cloves. Measure 1 cup of frozen mixed veggies (no need to thaw).
  2. Cook the Eggs (2-3 minutes): Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the 2 beaten eggs, swirling to create a thin omelet. Once set, flip and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove the egg, slice into strips, and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Veggies (3-4 minutes): Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot pan. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the frozen veggies and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.
  4. Add the Rice and Season (5-6 minutes): Increase heat to high. Add the cold rice to the skillet, spreading it out. Let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two to encourage crispiness. Stir and repeat spreading for several minutes until you see golden, crispy bits forming. Pour in 2 tablespoons soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together for even flavor.
  5. Combine and Finish (1-2 minutes): Return the cooked egg strips to the skillet. Drizzle 1 teaspoon sesame oil over the top and toss gently. Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Use cold, refrigerated leftover rice for best texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get crispy rice; work in batches if needed. Cook eggs separately to keep them tender. Add soy sauce gradually to avoid soggy rice. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving. Optional add-ins include diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For vegan, omit eggs and use plant-based oil and tamari.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried rice, leftover rice recipe, crispy rice, easy fried rice, quick dinner, vegetable fried rice, soy sauce fried rice