Egg Fried Rice Recipe
Introduction
Egg fried rice is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together fluffy rice, savory eggs, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. Perfect as a side or a simple main, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion (peeled and diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 800 g (4 cups) boiled and cooled long-grain rice (about 1 1/3 cups or 300g dried rice boiled)
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1/2 bunch spring onions/scallions (chopped)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring regularly, for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Step 2: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil along with the minced garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Step 3: Increase the heat to high and add the boiled, cooled rice to the wok. Drizzle the sesame oil over the rice.
- Step 4: Use a spatula to toss and stir the rice continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even reheating. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the rice is hot throughout.
- Step 5: Push the rice to one side of the wok and crack the eggs into the empty space. Add about 1/4 tablespoon of soy sauce to the eggs.
- Step 6: Keep this side of the wok over the heat and scramble the eggs gently with the spatula until they begin to cook but remain slightly runny.
- Step 7: Mix the scrambled eggs thoroughly into the rice until well combined.
- Step 8: Pour in the remaining soy sauce (about 1 3/4 tablespoons), sprinkle in the salt and garlic salt, and stir everything together evenly.
- Step 9: Add the lemon juice, stir, and taste. Adjust the lemon juice as needed for brightness.
- Step 10: Divide the egg fried rice between 4 bowls and top with the chopped spring onions.
- Step 11: Serve alongside your favorite Chinese dishes such as Crispy Sesame Chicken, Sweet and Sour Chicken, or Sticky Pork Belly for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old rice or ensure the cooked rice is fully cooled to prevent clumping and sogginess.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Customize the seasoning by swapping dark soy sauce with light soy sauce for a milder flavor.
- For a richer flavor, toss in a dash of toasted sesame seeds or a splash of oyster sauce.
- Use leftover proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more substantial main dish.
Storage
Store leftover egg fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly in a pan or microwave until steaming hot, adding a splash of water or oil if the rice feels dry. Avoid reheating more than once for best quality and safety.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of cooled rice?
It’s best to use cooled, preferably day-old rice because fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which can result in clumpy fried rice. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry out before frying.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, omit the eggs and replace soy sauce with a suitable vegan option if needed. Add extra vegetables and tofu for protein and texture.
PrintEgg Fried Rice Recipe
A quick and easy Egg Fried Rice recipe made with fluffy long-grain rice, onions, garlic, eggs, and a flavorful blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Perfect as a standalone dish or served alongside your favorite Chinese meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
Rice and Oils
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 800 g (4 cups) boiled and cooled long-grain rice (about 1 1/3 cups (300g) dried rice boiled)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 1/2 bunch spring onions/scallions, chopped
Eggs and Seasoning
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (divided)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the remaining vegetable oil and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the garlic’s aroma.
- Incorporate Rice and Heat Up: Add the cooked and cooled rice, then increase the heat to high. Drizzle sesame oil over the rice.
- Toss to Reheat: Use a spatula to carefully toss the rice ensuring it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the wok. Continue moving the rice for about 5 minutes until fully heated through.
- Prepare Eggs: Push the rice to one side of the wok. Crack the eggs into the empty space and add a small splash (about 1/4 tbsp) of soy sauce over the eggs.
- Scramble Eggs: Keep the eggs over the heat, stirring gently with the spatula until the eggs begin to set but remain slightly runny.
- Combine Eggs and Rice: Mix the scrambled eggs into the rice thoroughly.
- Season: Pour in the remaining soy sauce (about 1 3/4 tbsp), sprinkle salt and garlic salt over the mixture, and stir well to combine all flavors.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust if more acidity is needed.
- Serve: Divide the fried rice between 4 bowls and garnish with chopped spring onions.
- Enjoy: Serve alongside your favorite Chinese dishes such as Crispy Sesame Chicken, Sweet and Sour Chicken, or Sticky Pork Belly.
Notes
- Use day-old or well-cooled rice for best texture and to prevent clumping.
- Adjust soy sauce according to your salt preference.
- For extra flavor, you can add vegetables like peas or carrots.
- Be careful not to overcook the eggs; slightly runny eggs add creaminess to the dish.
- Sesame oil adds a rich nutty flavor but use sparingly as it can overpower the dish.
Keywords: egg fried rice, fried rice recipe, Chinese rice, easy fried rice, quick dinner, stir-fry rice

