Discover the delightful blend of flavors in our amazing kielbasa shrimp fried rice recipe. This dish combines juicy kielbasa, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked rice, crafted to deliver a unique culinary experience. Easy to make and irresistible to taste, it’s the perfect meal to impress your family or friends no matter the occasion.
Growing up, our family had a tradition of trying out new recipes every weekend. I remember the first time we made this as an experiment — it was a rainy Saturday, and our pantry was looking quite sparse. A quick mixing and matching of available ingredients, like some leftover kielbasa and shrimp, led to the birth of this unexpected family favorite. Every time I prepare it, the flavors transport me back to that cozy kitchen and those spontaneous, heartwarming culinary experiments with my family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it also offers a symphony of flavors and textures that are bound to excite your taste buds. The smokiness of the kielbasa complements the sweetness of the shrimp, and the fluffy rice serves as the perfect base. Additionally, it’s a versatile dish suitable for any meal — be it a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Enjoy the satisfaction of an expertly cooked homemade meal with minimal effort.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the kielbasa into thin rounds and set aside. Peel and devein the shrimp and marinate it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the kielbasa and cook until browned and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove kielbasa and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and toss in the shrimp. Sauté just until they turn pink and are cooked through, roughly 2 minutes. Remove and set aside with the kielbasa.
Step 4
Add another splash of oil and stir in your cold, cooked rice. Stir-fry for a few minutes, ensuring every grain is heated through. A dash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce adds a punch of flavor here.
Step 5
Return the kielbasa and shrimp to the skillet, mixing them evenly with the rice. Toss in chopped green onions for an extra burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storage Options
To store leftovers, transfer the fried rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, allow the rice to cool completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet with a bit of oil or in the microwave until piping hot.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, you can substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa. Need a vegetarian option? Swap the kielbasa and shrimp for tofu and vegetables such as bell peppers or peas to maintain the protein balance. Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil to give it an aromatic twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them in advance by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running cold water over them. Pat them dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture.
What type of rice works best for fried rice? Day-old, cold rice is the best option for fried rice, as it’s drier and yields a better texture when stir-fried. It ensures that the grains don’t stick together, resulting in a fluffy and evenly cooked dish.
Is this recipe suitable for a large crowd? Certainly! This recipe can be easily scaled up by doubling or tripling the ingredients, including rice. Make sure to use a large enough skillet or work in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry.
Kielbasa Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups white rice cooked
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage sliced
- 0.5 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs beaten
- 3 green onions chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beaten eggs and scramble until cooked. Remove eggs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining vegetable oil. Cook kielbasa and shrimp until the shrimp is pink and the sausage is browned.
- Add peas and carrots to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
