Name: Seafood Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked white rice (cold, day-old preferred); 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 lb squid, cleaned and sliced into rings; 1/4 lb scallops or white fish pieces (optional); 2 eggs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 2 green onions, sliced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp fish sauce (optional); 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seafood Fried Rice is packed with flavor and texture—from tender seafood and crispy veggies to fluffy rice infused with soy and garlic. It’s a one-pan meal that’s versatile, customizable, and fast to prepare. Whether you use fresh or frozen seafood, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked white rice (preferably cold, day-old rice)
Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Squid or calamari, cleaned and sliced
Scallops or fish pieces (optional)
Eggs
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, bell peppers)
Green onions, sliced
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Fish sauce (optional)
Sesame oil
Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
Salt and black pepper
Lime wedges (optional for serving)

Directions

Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant.
Add the seafood and cook for 2–3 minutes until just opaque and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Add a bit more oil if needed. Crack in the eggs and scramble them quickly until just set.
Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.
Add the cold cooked rice, breaking up clumps, and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through.
Return the seafood to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to slightly crisp in spots.
Garnish with green onions and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add chopped fresh chili, chili paste, or sriracha to the rice.
No Egg: Omit the eggs for an egg-free version.
Different Seafood: Use mussels, crab meat, or firm fish depending on what’s available.
Vegetable Boost: Add bok choy, baby corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and omit fish sauce.
Brown Rice Option: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a whole grain alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover seafood fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water and stir-fry until hot. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring between each. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the seafood can change upon thawing.

FAQs

What kind of rice is best for fried rice?

Cold, day-old jasmine or long-grain rice works best because it’s less sticky and fries up better.

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent the rice from getting soggy?

Use cold rice and stir-fry on high heat to evaporate moisture quickly.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the seafood fresh and reheat the rice gently.

What vegetables work well in seafood fried rice?

Peas, carrots, bell peppers, onions, green beans, and corn are all great options.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that oyster sauce and fish sauce are gluten-free as well.

Can I use only one type of seafood?

Absolutely. Shrimp alone makes a great version of this dish.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use a high smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Sesame oil is for flavor, not frying.

Why use day-old rice?

Day-old rice is drier and less sticky, making it perfect for stir-frying without clumping.

What can I serve with seafood fried rice?

It’s great on its own, but you can serve it with a side of soup, spring rolls, or a cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Seafood Fried Rice is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the ocean’s best with the comforting texture of stir-fried rice. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold taste and beautiful presentation.