The aroma of Yangzhou fried rice wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine savory bites of fluffy rice, delicate vegetables, and tender meat mingling together in perfect harmony. Each forkful is a delightful explosion of flavor that can transport you to bustling street markets in China.
This dish holds a special place in my heart; I remember the first time I tried it at my best friend’s family dinner. The joy on everyone’s faces as they dug into that vibrant bowl made me realize food truly connects us all. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Yangzhou fried rice promises an unforgettable experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Yangzhou fried rice is quick and simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich yet balanced, delighting every palate
- Its colorful presentation adds flair to any table setting, making it visually appealing
- This dish is versatile enough to use leftover ingredients, reducing waste while being delicious
Sharing this dish with friends always brings smiles and compliments. The taste alone gets everyone talking and reminiscing about their favorite meals.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cooked Jasmine Rice: Day-old rice works best because it’s drier and won’t clump together while cooking.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for fluffiness; they add a lovely richness to the fried rice.
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Green Onions: Fresh green onions give your dish a nice crunch and bright flavor.
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Carrots: Diced finely, carrots add sweetness and color; choose firm ones for the best texture.
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Frozen Peas: These little gems are convenient and add pops of color and nutrition without much effort.
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Shrimp or Chicken: Cooked shrimp or diced chicken provide protein—choose based on your preference.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce allows you better control over saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil enhances richness—don’t skip this delightful ingredient!
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Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings elevate your dish; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before starting; chop the vegetables, beat the eggs, and have everything within reach for an easy cooking process.
Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil until it’s shimmering but not smoking—this ensures even cooking.
Cook the Eggs: Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just set; they should be soft but not dry. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: Add more oil if necessary, then toss in the carrots and green onions. Sauté until fragrant and slightly tender—about 3 minutes should do!
Add Rice & Protein: Stir in the cooked jasmine rice along with your choice of shrimp or chicken. Mix well until heated through; this step brings everything together beautifully.
Season It Up: Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture while stirring constantly; let those flavors meld together for a minute or two before serving hot.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Yangzhou fried rice! Each bite will remind you of joyful gatherings around the dinner table filled with laughter and love.
You Must Know
- Yangzhou fried rice is a delightful dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully
- Using day-old rice enhances the dish, ensuring perfect texture and preventing mushiness
- The combination of colorful veggies and proteins creates a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your proteins first, then stir-fry the vegetables before adding the rice for even distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins or add in your favorite veggies. Try adding shrimp, peas, or even some pineapple for a sweet twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Yangzhou fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your ingredients prepped ahead of time to streamline cooking
- Use cold, day-old rice for optimal texture; it keeps the dish from becoming sticky
- Remember, high heat is key for that perfect fried rice finish!
Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air as we cooked together.
FAQ
What is Yangzhou fried rice?
Yangzhou fried rice is a classic Chinese dish featuring stir-fried rice with vegetables and proteins.
Can I use fresh rice for Yangzhou fried rice?
While fresh rice can work, day-old rice provides better texture and prevents mushiness.
What are some common variations of Yangzhou fried rice?
Common variations include different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Yangzhou Fried Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Yangzhou fried rice is a delightful and colorful dish bursting with flavors that transport you to the vibrant streets of China. This quick and easy recipe combines day-old jasmine rice with fresh vegetables, savory proteins, and rich seasonings, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Each forkful is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup cooked shrimp or diced chicken
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping vegetables and beating the eggs.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add oil until shimmering.
- Scramble the beaten eggs until soft, then remove from the pan.
- Sauté carrots and green onions in the skillet until fragrant and tender (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the cooked rice and your choice of shrimp or chicken; mix well until heated through.
- Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture, stirring constantly for a minute before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 120mg