Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a bowl and lightly season with:

• Salt
• White pepper

Allow the shrimp to sit for a few minutes while the skillet heats.

This simple step helps build flavor before cooking even begins.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp in a single layer.

Cook for:

• 1–2 minutes per side for medium shrimp
• 2–3 minutes per side for larger shrimp

The shrimp should become opaque and lightly golden.

Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Avoid overcooking, as shrimp continue cooking slightly after being removed from the heat.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the remaining oil to the skillet.

Add:

• Onion
• Garlic

Cook for approximately 2 minutes.

Stir frequently until fragrant and lightly softened.

The aroma at this stage is one of the defining characteristics of great fried rice.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add:

• Carrots
• Peas

Cook for 3–4 minutes.

The vegetables should become tender while maintaining some texture.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet.

Crack the eggs directly into the empty space.

Gently scramble until mostly cooked.

Once set, mix them into the vegetables.

This technique keeps the eggs soft and evenly distributed throughout the rice.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Add the cold rice to the skillet.

Use a spatula to break apart any remaining clumps.

Spread the rice across the surface of the skillet.

Allow it to cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes before stirring.

This helps develop the slightly toasted flavor that makes fried rice so delicious.

Step 7: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the rice.

Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients.

Make sure every grain of rice receives some seasoning.

This creates balanced flavor throughout the dish rather than concentrated pockets of sauce.

Step 8: Return the Shrimp

Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet.

Gently fold them into the rice mixture.

Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes.

This allows the shrimp to absorb some of the flavors without becoming overcooked.

Step 9: Final Stir-Fry

Increase the heat slightly if needed.

Continue tossing and stirring for another 2 minutes.

The rice should appear:

• Lightly golden
• Evenly seasoned
• Well combined

At this stage, the skillet should smell wonderfully savory and aromatic.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat.

Sprinkle with:

• Sliced green onions
• Additional sesame oil if desired

Serve immediately while hot.