This Mary Berry Fried Rice recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables. Made with simple ingredients and classic seasoning, this fried rice is light, colorful, and packed with fresh flavor.

What Is Mary Berry Fried Rice?

Mary Berry’s fried rice is a simple and wholesome dish combining cooked rice, fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a splash of soy sauce. Unlike heavier takeaway versions, this fried rice is lighter and less greasy, staying true to Mary Berry’s emphasis on fresh, balanced flavors.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes
Great Use for Leftover Rice – Perfect for avoiding food waste
Balanced and Fresh – Full of veggies and protein
Family-Friendly – Mild flavors that everyone can enjoy
Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, meats, or tofu

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Fried Rice

Cooked Basmati or Long-Grain Rice (about 300g / 2 cups, cold)
Eggs (2, beaten)
Frozen Peas (100g / ¾ cup)
Carrot (1 medium, finely diced)
Spring Onions (3, thinly sliced)
Garlic (1 clove, minced)
Soy Sauce (2 tbsp, light)
Sesame Oil (1 tsp, optional)
Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp, for frying)
Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-ins:

Cooked chicken pieces
Prawns or shrimp
Sweetcorn
Red bell pepper (finely diced)

Equipment Needed

Large non-stick frying pan or wok
Wooden spoon or spatula
Mixing bowl
Chopping board and knife

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Ensure the rice is cold—this prevents it from becoming sticky. Chop all vegetables finely so they cook quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Cook the eggs

Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and gently scramble until just set. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-fry the vegetables

Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry the carrot, peas, garlic, and half the spring onions for about 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened but still vibrant.

Step 4: Add the rice

Add the cold cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Season and combine

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Add the soy sauce, a drizzle of sesame oil if using, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together for another minute to heat through.

Step 6: Serve

Scatter the remaining spring onions over the top. Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Fried Rice

Grilled Chicken or Fish – Light and healthy pairing
Spring Rolls or Dumplings – For an Asian-inspired meal
Stir-Fried Greens – Like bok choy or spinach
Sweet Chili Sauce – For a touch of heat
Fresh Cucumber Salad – To add crunch and coolness

Expert Tips for the Best Fried Rice

Use Day-Old Rice – Cold rice separates easily and fries better
Keep Ingredients Moving – Stir frequently to prevent sticking
Cut Vegetables Small – Quick, even cooking
Use High Heat Briefly – For a slightly smoky flavor (restaurant style)
Don’t Over-Salt – Soy sauce adds saltiness already

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice – Add cooked shredded chicken
Prawn Fried Rice – Toss in cooked prawns at the end
Vegetarian Fried Rice – Load up with mixed vegetables
Spicy Fried Rice – Add a chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce
Pineapple Fried Rice – Stir in small chunks of pineapple for sweetness

Best Practices to Store Leftovers

Cool Quickly and Refrigerate – Within 1 hour after cooking
Store in an Airtight Container – Keeps fresh for up to 2 days
Reheat Thoroughly – Make sure the rice is piping hot before eating
Avoid Reheating Multiple Times – Only reheat what you will eat
Freeze if Needed – Fried rice can be frozen for up to 1 month

Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~280
Protein: ~8g
Fat: ~10g
Carbohydrates: ~38g
Fiber: ~2g

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice for fried rice?

Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky. It’s best to use day-old cold rice, which stays separate and fries beautifully.

What vegetables can I add to fried rice?

You can add peas, carrots, sweetcorn, red peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms. Small, quick-cooking vegetables work best for fried rice.

Can I make fried rice vegetarian?

Yes. Simply omit any meat and load up with extra vegetables or even add tofu for a protein boost.

How do I reheat leftover fried rice safely?

Reheat thoroughly in a pan or microwave until piping hot all the way through. Only reheat once and consume immediately after reheating.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Fried Rice is proof that simple ingredients, when cooked thoughtfully, can create something absolutely delicious. With its fluffy rice, colorful veggies, and light seasoning, it’s a versatile dish that can easily become a family favorite for busy nights or casual dinners.

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