Description:
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe elevates the humble leftover rice into a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes. Infused with the vibrant spices of Cajun cuisine and the savory umami of Asian-inspired sauces, this dish features succulent shrimp, fluffy scrambled eggs, and a medley of aromatic vegetables. It’s a quick, customizable, and delicious way to enjoy a complete and balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked brown or white rice, preferably leftover (day-old rice works best!)
- 1 kilogram shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste (for extra heat)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large egg whites, scrambled
- 1 whole large egg, scrambled
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 medium green onions, chopped, whites and greens separated
- Cooking oil spray (such as canola or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- 4 teaspoons soy sauce, or more to taste
- 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce (or more soy sauce as a substitute)
Preparation:
Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This dish comes together quickly, so having everything chopped, measured, and within reach is essential.
Step 1: Season the Shrimp. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the shrimp is evenly coated with the spices. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful final dish.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and the whole egg until well combined. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with cooking oil spray. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist. Remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set aside. Roughly chop the eggs for easier mixing into the fried rice later.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics. Return the skillet to high heat. Once hot, add the sesame oil. Add the chopped onion, green onion whites, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. The aroma should fill your kitchen with a delightful savory scent.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the aromatics. Stir-fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as this will make them rubbery. The shrimp should be cooked through but still tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Fried Rice. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Stir-fry until the rice is heated through and slightly browned on the bottom, about 2-3 minutes. This browning adds a delightful texture and flavor. Break up any clumps of rice with your spatula as you stir. Add the chopped scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and fish sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped green onion greens. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish. Serve the Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice immediately. If desired, you can add grilled shrimp on top for a more impressive presentation and an extra boost of protein.
Why you will love this recipe
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice is more than just a quick and easy meal; it’s a flavor adventure! The combination of the spicy Cajun seasonings with the savory Asian sauces creates a unique and irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice, reducing food waste and saving you money. But the real magic lies in its simplicity. It’s a dish that anyone can make, regardless of their cooking skill level, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. The balance of textures, from the tender shrimp and fluffy rice to the crunchy vegetables, adds to the overall appeal of this dish. It’s a truly satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried rice.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool down the spice level, if desired.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Serve as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.
Tips:
- Use day-old rice for the best results. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and can result in a mushy fried rice.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the ingredients in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spice.
- If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with more soy sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with tofu or tempeh.
- Get creative with your vegetables! Add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, or broccoli.
- To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry in a skillet with a little oil until heated through.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size)
Calories: Approximately 450-550 Protein: 30-40 grams Sodium: 800-1000 mg
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice is a winner because it’s quick, delicious, and customizable. It transforms leftover rice into a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is a perfect choice. The combination of Cajun spices and Asian-inspired sauces creates a unique and unforgettable flavor profile. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary fusion!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?
- Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient and affordable option. Just make sure to thaw it completely before using it in the recipe. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help it brown better in the skillet.
- I don’t have fish sauce. What can I use as a substitute?
- If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with more soy sauce. Start with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and add more to taste until you achieve the desired savory flavor. Alternatively, a small dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a similar umami flavor.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- While this dish is best served fresh, you can certainly prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time during the cooking process. You can cook the rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also chop the vegetables and season the shrimp ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp and assemble the fried rice just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make this recipe spicier?
- If you like your fried rice with a kick, there are several ways to amp up the spice level. You can add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning and/or the stir-fry. You can also add a dash of hot sauce, such as sriracha or Tabasco, to the fried rice. Another option is to use chili oil, which will add both heat and flavor.
- What are some other vegetables that I can add to this fried rice?
- The possibilities are endless when it comes to vegetables in fried rice! Some great additions include diced bell peppers (any color), carrots (shredded or diced), peas (fresh or frozen), broccoli florets, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and bean sprouts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type of vegetable you’re using. For example, harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli may need to be cooked slightly longer than softer vegetables like peas and bean sprouts. Feel free to experiment and use whatever vegetables you have on hand!
