If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a container of leftover rice, a day or two after it was first cooked, and you’re wondering how to spruce it up quickly, this post is for you!
Leftover rice is the perfect base for a quick, easy, and delicious meal.
This is my go-to recipe when I need something fast but still satisfying. It’ssimple, packed with flavor, and comes together in just 10 minutes or even less. Whether you’re making lunch, a quick dinner, or even a lazy weekend brunch, this dish will save you time and make the most of your leftovers.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups leftover rice (cold rice works best!)
- 1 tbsp oil or butter
- ½ cup chopped onions (or spring onions for extra flavor)
- ½ cup veggies (whatever you have—carrots, peas, bell peppers, spinach)
- 1-2 eggs (optional, but makes it extra filling)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp ginger (grated or powdered)
- ½ tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for spice)
- Protein of choice – shredded chicken, tofu, shrimp, or whatever’s in your fridge
- Sesame seeds & chopped green onions (for topping)
How to Make It:
Step 1: Heat It Up
In a large pan or wok, heat your oil or butter over medium heat. If you love that classic fried rice texture, go for butter—it adds an extra layer of richness.
Step 2: Sauté the Flavor
Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. If you’re using firmer veggies like carrots or bell peppers, throw them in now to give them time to soften.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Toss in your leftover rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir everything together so the rice gets evenly coated with the oil and aromatics.
Step 4: Make It Savory
Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and mix well. This is also where you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you want some heat.
Step 5: Scramble the Eggs (Optional)
Push the rice to one side of the pan and crack your eggs on the empty side. Scramble them quickly, then mix them into the rice once they’re cooked through.
Step 6: Add Protein & Final Touches
If you have cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, now’s the time to toss it in. Let it heat through for a minute or two. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that final touch.
Serve & Enjoy!
That’s it—done in 10 minutes with minimal effort. Serve it hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, add a fried egg on top.
The best part? This recipe is totally customizable. Use whatever veggies, sauces, or proteins you have on hand. No two batches ever have to be the same!
FAQ: Your Leftover Rice Questions Answered
Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of leftover rice?
A: You can, but leftover rice works best because it’s drier and fries up better. If you use fresh rice, spread it on a plate and let it cool for a bit before cooking.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftover rice safely?
A: Always store rice in an airtight container in the fridge and use it within 1-2 days. When reheating, make sure it’s piping hot to avoid bacteria growth.
Q: What other seasonings can I add?
A: If you want to switch it up, try adding hoisin sauce for sweetness, oyster sauce for depth, or even a splash of lime juice for brightness.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Just skip the eggs and use tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also add a dash of coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option.
Next time you have leftover rice, don’t let it sit in the fridge waiting to be forgotten. Turn it into this quick, flavorful meal that’s easy, filling, and totally stress-free.
Let me know in the Pinterest comments—what’s your favorite way to use up leftover rice?
