Craving a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and sure to impress? Look no further! Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice is your answer. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a delicious dish that combines tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and colorful veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with taste. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice (or any preferred rice)
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
– 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Equipment Needed
– Medium saucepan
– Large skillet or wok
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Fork for fluffing rice
Gather these ingredients before starting. The shrimp adds protein and flavor. Jasmine rice makes the dish fragrant and fluffy. Unsalted butter and garlic create a rich base. Onions bring sweetness and depth. Peas and carrots add color and texture. Soy sauce and sesame oil enhance the umami taste. Add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
You will need basic kitchen tools too. A medium saucepan cooks the rice. A large skillet or wok helps fry everything together. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate amounts. A fork fluffs the rice to keep it light.
With all these items ready, you set the stage for a tasty meal. Enjoy the process and trust that this dish will delight your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Rice
– Combine uncooked rice and water in a medium saucepan.
– Bring to a boil, then simmer and cover for 15 minutes.
Cooking the rice is the first step. I like to use jasmine rice for its nice flavor. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking. This helps remove extra starch. After 15 minutes, check that all the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Sautéing the Shrimp
– Melt butter in the skillet and add garlic.
– Cook shrimp until opaque, then set aside.
Next, I melt two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet. The butter adds richness to the dish. Then, I add minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. This step fills your kitchen with a great smell! After that, I add the shrimp, seasoned with salt and pepper. I cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, I set the shrimp aside.
Preparing the Vegetables
– Sauté onions until translucent, then add peas and carrots.
– Heat through before combining with rice.
Now, I use the same skillet for the veggies. I add the chopped onions and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes. I wait until they become translucent. Then, I throw in the frozen peas and carrots mix. I cook everything for another 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are heated through. This step adds color and texture to the dish.
Final Assembly
– Mix cooked rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, shrimp, and green onions.
– Stir and adjust seasoning as needed.
It’s time for assembly! I push the veggies to one side of the skillet. On the other side, I add the cooked rice. I pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, and mix everything together. Next, I add the shrimp and half of the chopped green onions. I stir everything for about 2 minutes to make sure it all heats up and the flavors blend well.
Serving Suggestions
– Plate the dish and garnish with green onions.
Finally, I plate the garlic butter shrimp fried rice. I like to garnish it with the remaining green onions for a fresh touch. This dish looks beautiful and tastes even better!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Rice
– Use jasmine rice for best flavor. Its fragrant notes add a lovely touch.
– Fluff rice gently to avoid clumping. This keeps the grains separate and light.
Enhancing Flavor
– Add a splash of lime juice for brightness. It lifts the dish and adds freshness.
– Experiment with different vegetables or proteins. You can use bell peppers, broccoli, or tofu for variety.
Storing Leftovers
– Store fried rice in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents drying out.
– For reheating, use a skillet for best texture. This helps restore the rice’s original fluffiness.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make this dish meat-free. Replace shrimp with tofu or extra vegetables. Tofu soaks up flavor well. Try using firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. You can also add bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms. These options give you a colorful and tasty meal.
Spice It Up
Want more heat? You can add more than just red pepper flakes. Try adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for a fresh kick. You can also drizzle in your favorite hot sauce. Sriracha or chili garlic sauce can add depth and flavor. Adjust the spice to your taste for a perfect meal.
Different Rice Types
You don’t have to stick to jasmine rice. Explore other rice varieties like brown or cauliflower rice. Brown rice adds more fiber and a nutty flavor. Cauliflower rice keeps the dish low-carb. Each type gives a unique taste and texture, so feel free to experiment.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter shrimp fried rice fresh, store it in airtight containers. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Avoid letting the rice sit out too long. If you plan to eat it later, refrigerate it right away. For longer storage, freeze the fried rice. Make sure to cool it down first, then place it in freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating fried rice, keep the texture in mind. The microwave works, but it can dry out the rice. If you choose the microwave, add a splash of water before heating. Cover the container to trap steam. Heat in short bursts until warm. The skillet method is better for texture. Heat a little oil in a skillet. Add the rice and stir frequently until hot. This keeps it fluffy and tasty.
Shelf Life
Garlic butter shrimp fried rice lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious leftovers!
FAQs
Can I use cooked rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use cooked rice. Just make sure it is cold. If it’s fresh, the rice may be mushy. Heat the shrimp and veggies, then add the rice. Stir and cook for about 4-5 minutes. This way, you warm everything through without overcooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Coconut aminos is a great substitute. It adds a nice flavor without gluten. You can also look for brands that are labeled gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure safety.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed broccoli
– Asian-style salad
– Vegetable spring rolls
– Garlic green beans
These sides add color and texture to your meal. They also enhance the overall dining experience.
This blog post shows how to make delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice. You learned the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for better results. Remember to use jasmine rice for great flavor. Feel free to swap shrimp for tofu or add your favorite spices. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a yummy meal any day. Cooking should be fun and easy, so get started!
