The sizzle of shrimp, the punch of ginger, and the warmth of garlic come together in this quick and flavorful fried rice dish. It’s everything you crave in a comforting Asian-inspired meal, all whipped up in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re in the mood for takeout vibes or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Perfect for using leftover rice and pantry staples, Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice delivers a mouthful of bold flavor with every bite. It’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or proteins, and fast enough to make any night feel special. Serve it piping hot and garnish with fresh scallions for that restaurant-style finish.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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8 oz large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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4 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 tablespoon ginger (finely minced)
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4 cloves garlic (minced)
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2 eggs (lightly beaten)
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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2 green onions (chopped)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
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Salt and white pepper to taste
Directions:
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Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Sauté the ginger and garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Push the aromatics to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble lightly and cook until just set.
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Add the rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula, and mix well with the egg and aromatics.
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Stir in peas and green onions, then add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix to evenly coat the rice.
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Return shrimp to the pan and toss everything together until heated through. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately with additional chopped scallions if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Introduction to Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice
Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is a beloved Asian-inspired comfort dish that brings together the aromatic intensity of ginger and garlic with the sweet succulence of shrimp. Perfectly balanced, this dish marries bold flavors with simplicity, resulting in a meal that’s as quick to prepare as it is satisfying. Whether you’re trying to recreate the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout or simply looking for a vibrant and nourishing meal, this fried rice delivers every time.
This recipe is built on the foundation of jasmine rice, known for its fragrant aroma and light, fluffy texture. When combined with stir-fried shrimp, freshly minced ginger and garlic, and a splash of umami-rich sauces, each bite becomes a symphony of flavor. What makes this dish so special is not just its taste but also its versatility—ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even casual dinner parties.
Aromatic Foundations: The Role of Ginger and Garlic
Ginger and garlic are more than just flavor enhancers in this recipe—they’re the essence of the dish. When sautéed in hot oil, they release their oils and create an unmistakable aroma that signals the beginning of something delicious. Ginger adds warmth and a slight spicy kick, while garlic provides a depth of savory flavor that clings to every grain of rice and piece of shrimp.
This duo is a staple in Asian cuisine for a reason. Both are known not just for their culinary contributions but also for their health benefits. Ginger has been used for centuries for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, while garlic supports cardiovascular health and boosts immunity. Together, they transform a simple stir-fry into a healing, flavorful meal.
Shrimp: The Star Protein
Shrimp plays the starring role in this dish, offering a light yet meaty protein that cooks in just minutes. Their natural sweetness pairs exceptionally well with the ginger and garlic, creating a contrast that’s both savory and slightly sweet. When cooked properly—just until pink and opaque—shrimp remain tender and juicy, adding a luxurious feel to the fried rice.
One of the advantages of using shrimp is how well it absorbs flavor. It takes on the garlic, ginger, and soy-based sauces like a sponge, ensuring every bite is loaded with umami. Moreover, shrimp is low in fat and high in protein, making this dish a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.
The Importance of Day-Old Rice
If there’s one kitchen tip that can elevate your fried rice, it’s this: always use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and sticky, which makes it difficult to achieve that classic fried rice texture where every grain is separate and slightly crispy. Leftover rice, on the other hand, is drier and firmer—perfect for absorbing the sauces and searing well in a hot wok or pan.
Jasmine rice is particularly ideal for this dish because of its light, fluffy nature and subtle floral notes. It complements the punchy ginger and garlic flavors without overpowering them. When stir-fried, jasmine rice creates a toasty aroma that enhances the overall eating experience.
The Wok Factor: Why Cooking Equipment Matters
Traditionally, fried rice is prepared in a wok, which offers intense heat and fast, even cooking. The shape of the wok allows ingredients to be tossed quickly without overcooking, preserving the integrity of each component. The high heat also encourages caramelization, adding that slight smokiness known as “wok hei” that is highly sought-after in Chinese cooking.
While a wok is ideal, a heavy-bottomed skillet can also do the job if preheated properly. The key is to avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing each ingredient enough space to cook and sear instead of steam.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Preferences
One of the strengths of Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is its adaptability. You can add a variety of vegetables such as diced carrots, bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for more color and nutrients. If you’re looking to increase the protein content, scrambled tofu or diced chicken can be added along with or in place of the shrimp.
For a spicier version, chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can be incorporated at the end. Conversely, for a milder dish suitable for kids, reduce the garlic and omit spicy elements altogether. A vegetarian version can also be made by replacing shrimp with mushrooms or tofu and using vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce alone.
Nutritional Value and Balance
This dish is not only flavorful but also well-balanced in terms of nutrition. It provides lean protein from the shrimp, carbohydrates from the rice, and healthy fats from sesame and vegetable oil. The addition of peas or other vegetables introduces fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a complete meal in a single bowl.
With around 385 calories per serving, Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is satisfying without being overly heavy. It fits well into most dietary plans, especially those looking for low-fat, high-protein meals that don’t skimp on taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is a meal prep champion. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheats beautifully in a microwave or skillet. The flavors continue to deepen over time, making leftovers just as enjoyable—if not more—than the original dish.
To ensure the best texture upon reheating, use a splash of water or broth and warm it in a pan to re-crisp the rice and bring everything back to life. This makes it an excellent choice for busy professionals, students, or anyone managing a tight schedule.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
While this dish shines on its own, you can elevate it further with a few thoughtful additions. A wedge of lime adds brightness, chopped scallions bring a burst of freshness, and toasted sesame seeds offer a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, a fried egg on top transforms it into a deluxe rice bowl.
Pair it with light Asian-style soups, steamed vegetables, or simple cucumber salad for a full meal. Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice also works as a side dish at a larger gathering, complementing other main courses like grilled meats or roasted tofu.
Conclusion
Ginger Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice is the kind of dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and endlessly customizable, it’s an essential addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this dish offers simplicity without sacrificing depth.
Its balance of aromatic ginger, savory garlic, succulent shrimp, and fluffy rice makes it irresistible—and with the right techniques, it can rival your favorite takeout. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful cooking with humble ingredients can create something truly delicious. Keep this recipe in your regular rotation and it will never disappoint.