Seafood Fried Rice That Tastes Better Than Takeout

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seafood Fried Rice is one of those comforting dishes that feels familiar yet special every time you make it. I love how it transforms simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh seafood into a complete, satisfying meal. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve when guests are over. The combination of tender seafood, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings creates layers of flavor without being heavy. I have made this countless times when I needed a reliable dish that everyone would enjoy, and it never disappoints. What makes it truly special is its flexibility. You can adjust the seafood, vegetables, and seasoning based on what you have on hand. Once you master this recipe, it becomes a dependable go-to that rivals restaurant-style fried rice, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked rice is the backbone of this dish. Day-old rice works best because it is slightly dry, allowing each grain to stay separate and absorb flavor without becoming mushy.

Shrimp adds a sweet, delicate flavor and cooks very quickly. I prefer medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, for even cooking.

Calamari rings bring a tender, slightly chewy texture that balances the softness of the rice and shrimp when cooked properly.

Scallops provide a rich, buttery taste that elevates the dish and gives it a restaurant-quality feel.

Eggs are essential for classic fried rice flavor. They add richness and help bind the ingredients together.

Garlic infuses the rice with a warm, aromatic base that enhances the seafood without overpowering it.

Green onions contribute freshness and a mild onion flavor that brightens the entire dish.

Mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn add color, sweetness, and texture, making the dish more balanced.

Soy sauce delivers the salty umami depth that defines fried rice. Adjust it carefully to avoid overpowering the seafood.

Sesame oil adds a subtle nutty aroma and is best used sparingly at the end of cooking.

Neutral cooking oil such as vegetable or canola oil ensures high-heat cooking without burning.

Salt and white pepper help fine-tune the seasoning and enhance the natural flavors of the seafood.

Directions

Start by preparing all your ingredients before heating the pan. Fried rice cooks quickly, so having everything ready is important. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the shrimp, scallops, and calamari, cooking briefly until just opaque. Remove the seafood from the pan and set it aside to prevent overcooking.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then scramble the eggs until just set. Add the garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant. Stir in the vegetables and cook until heated through.

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for a few minutes, allowing the rice to heat evenly. Return the seafood to the pan and gently toss everything together. Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper, stirring continuously to distribute the seasoning. Finish with sesame oil and green onions, then remove from heat and serve immediately.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people generously. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, while cooking takes about 15 minutes, making it a 30-minute meal from start to finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Seafood Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a hot skillet with a small splash of water or oil to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may overcook the seafood.

Variations and Customizations

Seafood Fried Rice is incredibly adaptable, which is why I return to it so often. You can easily switch up the seafood based on availability or preference. Crab meat adds sweetness and a luxurious texture, while mussels or clams bring a briny depth. If you prefer a spicier dish, adding chili paste or fresh chopped chilies gives the rice a bold kick.

Vegetable choices are equally flexible. Bell peppers add crunch, while zucchini or snap peas introduce freshness. For a richer flavor, you can stir in a small amount of oyster sauce along with the soy sauce. I have also tried this recipe with brown rice for a nuttier taste, and it worked surprisingly well, though it requires slightly longer stir-frying.

For those who enjoy a smoky finish, a quick splash of toasted sesame oil right before serving enhances aroma beautifully. These variations allow you to personalize the dish without losing its comforting essence.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Seafood Fried Rice provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Seafood contributes lean protein and essential minerals, while vegetables add fiber and vitamins. Using moderate oil and controlled seasoning keeps the dish relatively light compared to takeout versions.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Rice Preparation
Using chilled, day-old rice prevents clumping and improves texture.

Seaparation of Seafood
Cooking seafood separately ensures it stays tender and juicy.

High Heat Cooking
Maintaining medium-high heat helps achieve authentic fried rice flavor.

Season Gradually
Add soy sauce in stages to avoid overpowering the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice such as jasmine is ideal for fluffy fried rice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated briefly.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add spice if desired.

Can I omit eggs?

Yes, the dish will still be flavorful without them.

How do I prevent soggy rice?

Use cold, cooked rice and cook over high heat.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

A small amount can be added for flavor, but oil is better for stir-frying.

What vegetables are best?

Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans work well.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable.

Can I add pineapple?

Yes, for a sweet and savory twist.

Conclusion

Seafood Fried Rice is a versatile, satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With the right technique and fresh ingredients, it becomes a reliable homemade favorite that easily outshines takeout. Once you try it, you will find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

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