CBS Shrimp Fried Rice: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Shrimp fried rice is a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide. But what if you could elevate this classic dish with a touch of unexpected flavor? Enter CBS Shrimp Fried Rice, a recipe that incorporates the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes of chili-garlic sauce (often abbreviated as CBS) to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

This recipe isn’t just about adding heat; it’s about layering flavors. The chili-garlic sauce complements the savory shrimp and rice perfectly, adding depth and complexity that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s quick, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, CBS Shrimp Fried Rice is a winner.

## What Makes This Recipe Special?

* **The Chili-Garlic Sauce:** This is the star of the show. It provides the heat, tang, and sweetness that sets this fried rice apart from the ordinary.
* **Perfectly Cooked Shrimp:** We’ll show you how to achieve tender, juicy shrimp every time.
* **Fluffy, Separate Rice Grains:** Say goodbye to mushy fried rice! We’ll share our secrets for achieving the perfect texture.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to make it your own.
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, this is a perfect meal for busy weeknights.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **Cooked Rice:** 4 cups of cooked and cooled rice (day-old rice is best).
* **Shrimp:** 1 pound of medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
* **Chili-Garlic Sauce:** 2-3 tablespoons, depending on your spice preference.
* **Soy Sauce:** 2 tablespoons.
* **Sesame Oil:** 1 tablespoon.
* **Vegetable Oil:** 2 tablespoons.
* **Eggs:** 2 large.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced.
* **Carrots:** 1/2 cup, diced.
* **Peas:** 1/2 cup, frozen or fresh.
* **Green Onions:** 2-3, thinly sliced.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional Additions:** Diced bell peppers, bean sprouts, water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, chopped peanuts, sesame seeds.

**Ingredient Notes:**

* **Rice:** Day-old rice is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice will be too sticky and lead to mushy fried rice. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before using.
* **Shrimp:** You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, while larger shrimp will be more visually appealing. Choose based on your preference.
* **Chili-Garlic Sauce:** There are many brands of chili-garlic sauce available. Look for one that you enjoy the flavor of. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste. Sambal Oelek is a common and readily available option. Some brands may have varying levels of sodium so it’s important to be aware when adding soy sauce.
* **Soy Sauce:** Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
* **Vegetables:** Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables based on your preferences. Diced bell peppers, bean sprouts, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots all work well.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect CBS Shrimp Fried Rice:

**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**

1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels. This will help the shrimp brown properly and prevent them from steaming in the pan.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This will marinate the shrimp and add flavor.

**Step 2: Cook the Shrimp**

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp to the wok in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the shrimp from browning properly. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough and rubbery.
4. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.

**Step 3: Cook the Eggs**

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok over medium heat.
3. Pour the eggs into the wok and cook, stirring constantly, until they are lightly scrambled. Remove the eggs from the wok and set aside.

**Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables**

1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the wok and cook over medium heat until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the diced carrots and peas to the wok and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the carrots are slightly tender.

**Step 5: Add the Rice and Sauce**

1. Add the cooked rice to the wok and break it up with a spatula or spoon.
2. Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the chili-garlic sauce over the rice.
3. Stir-fry the rice for 2-3 minutes, or until it is heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.

**Step 6: Combine Everything**

1. Add the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the wok.
2. Stir-fry for another minute or two, until everything is heated through and well combined.

**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**

1. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (optional).
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

* **Use Day-Old Rice:** As mentioned earlier, day-old rice is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice will be too sticky and lead to mushy fried rice.
* **High Heat is Key:** Use high heat to stir-fry the ingredients quickly. This will help to prevent the rice from sticking to the wok and give it a slightly crispy texture.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook the shrimp and vegetables in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and prevent the ingredients from browning properly.
* **Stir-Fry Constantly:** Stir the ingredients constantly to prevent them from sticking to the wok and to ensure that they cook evenly.
* **Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste:** The amount of chili-garlic sauce can be adjusted to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste. You can also add other sauces, such as oyster sauce or fish sauce, for added flavor.
* **Get the Wok Hot:** Before adding any ingredients, ensure your wok is screaming hot. This helps prevent sticking and gives the rice that desirable ‘wok hei’ or ‘breath of the wok’ smoky flavor.
* **Prep Everything First:** The stir-frying process moves quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This includes chopping vegetables, measuring out sauces, and having the cooked rice ready.

## Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about fried rice is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique version. Here are a few ideas:

* **Vegetarian Fried Rice:** Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables, such as tofu, mushrooms, or broccoli.
* **Chicken Fried Rice:** Substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken, diced into small pieces.
* **Pork Fried Rice:** Use cooked pork, such as leftover roast pork or char siu, diced into small pieces.
* **Beef Fried Rice:** Substitute the shrimp with cooked beef, such as steak or ground beef, diced into small pieces.
* **Spicy Fried Rice:** Add more chili-garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
* **Sweet and Sour Fried Rice:** Add a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a sweet and sour flavor.
* **Pineapple Fried Rice:** Add diced pineapple for a tropical twist.
* **Kimchi Fried Rice:** Incorporate kimchi for a tangy and spicy Korean-inspired dish.

## Serving Suggestions

CBS Shrimp Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served as a side dish with other Asian-inspired dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Serve with Spring Rolls:** Crispy spring rolls are a perfect complement to the savory fried rice.
* **Serve with Egg Drop Soup:** A warm bowl of egg drop soup is a comforting addition to the meal.
* **Serve with Stir-Fried Vegetables:** Add some stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy, for a healthy and balanced meal.
* **Serve with a Side of Steamed Dumplings:** Dumplings add a different texture and flavor profile to the meal.
* **Serve as a Bento Box Meal:** Pack CBS Shrimp Fried Rice in a bento box with other small dishes for a convenient and delicious lunch.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover CBS Shrimp Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the fried rice in a wok or skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may not be as good. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Calories: 450
*Protein: 25g
*Fat: 20g
*Carbohydrates: 40g

_(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)_

## Conclusion

CBS Shrimp Fried Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of shrimp, rice, vegetables, and chili-garlic sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and get ready to experience a fried rice dish like no other! Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking and create your own signature version. Happy cooking!

Enjoy this flavorful twist on a classic! Let me know in the comments how you liked it!