The answer to how many calories are in a cup of fried rice depends on what ingredients you use. A typical plate of fried rice from a Chinese restaurant contains about 238 calories per cup, and adding meat like chicken, shrimp or beef ups the calorie count significantly. However, it is possible to make fried rice with a lot less sodium and calories by making it at home using fresh vegetables and lean proteins.
The first step is to prepare your ingredients. Start with a large saute pan or wok that is hot enough to crisp the bottom. You may need to heat it up several times before the oil gets sufficiently hot, especially if you’re using a nonstick skillet. Butter is essential for getting the crispy texture you want in fried rice, and it adds flavor as well. You can reduce the amount of butter used, or skip it completely, to save a few calories.
Next, prepare the eggs. Beat them and then pour into the hot pan, allowing them to cook until they begin to set but are still partially runny. The hot oil will help them set quickly. Once the eggs are set, transfer them to a bowl and then set aside.
Finally, it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients. Toss in frozen peas and carrots, or you can choose to cut up some other vegetables you love, such as bell peppers or bok choy. Then, pour in the rice, and stir it to break up any clumps that may have formed.