Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if preferred)
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice for the best texture)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the peas and carrots: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if using), and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until fully cooked. Once cooked, mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir everything together, making sure the rice gets evenly mixed with the veggies and eggs.
- Season the rice: Add the soy sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), and hot sauce (if using). Stir everything together to combine and coat the rice evenly with the seasonings. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Add the shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir them into the rice. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley, if desired. Serve immediately!
Tips:
- Spicy option: If you love heat, add more hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño to the mix.
- Veggie additions: Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to boost the veggie content.
- Shrimp substitute: You can swap shrimp for chicken, sausage, or even tofu for a different protein.
Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
