
Shrimp fried rice is a beloved staple of Asian home cooking. This flavorful dish captures the essence of street food stalls with its perfect balance of ingredients. Based on traditional Khao Pad, this versatile recipe can be adapted with different proteins to suit any taste.
Ingredients for 2-3 Servings
- 250g basmati or Thai rice
- 250g fresh shrimp
- 3 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3cm fresh ginger
- 80g corn kernels
- 80g frozen peas
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon crispy fried onions
- Fresh chilies and cilantro to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions, preferably the day before to achieve ideal texture
- Peel and devein shrimp carefully
- Heat wok, stir-fry shrimp for 5 minutes until pink, then set aside
- Sauté finely chopped aromatics in same wok
- Add shrimp, chilies and vegetables, cook 5-7 minutes
- Incorporate cold rice, make well for eggs, scramble and mix through
- Season with soy sauces, garnish with cilantro and crispy onions
Serving Suggestions
Top each portion with a fried egg for authentic presentation. Serve with spicy soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat. The simple yet satisfying presentation mirrors authentic Asian street food style.

Chef's Tips
Day-old rice is essential for achieving perfect texture. Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or additional vegetables. Adjust chili level according to preference. This reliable recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort - perfect for impromptu meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you get perfectly stir-fried rice?
Make sure the rice has been cooked and cooled in the fridge beforehand. Using warm rice can make it sticky, but cold rice stays fluffy and separate.
- → Can this dish be prepped ahead of time?
Sure! Cook the rice a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Chop the veggies beforehand too, but cook the shrimp fresh before serving.
- → How do you control the heat level?
Start with a small amount of chili paste, then increase as you like. Alternatively, serve the chili sauce on the side so everyone can adjust their own plate.
- → Is there a substitute for shrimp?
Yes, try chicken, tofu, or even seafood. Just adjust cooking times since some ingredients take longer to cook than others.
- → Can I swap out the veggies?
Absolutely! You could use carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms. The key is to keep the veggies crisp for texture.