Egg Fried Rice Economics: Turning Day-Old Rice Into a Full Meal
Two eggs and a cup of leftover rice land under a dollar per serving at current grocery prices. Day-old refrigerated rice fries up better — and cheaper — than a fresh pot made the same night.
INGREDIENT UNIT LEDGER
SERVINGS:
2
INGREDIENT ITEM
QTY
UNIT COST
Day-Old Cooked Rice
3 cups
$0.60
Large Eggs
2 large
$0.50
Frozen Peas & Carrots
0.5 cup
$0.15
Soy Sauce
2 tbsp
$0.20
Green Onion, Sliced
2 stalks
$0.30
Neutral Oil
2 tbsp
$0.30
ESTIMATED TOTAL MATRIX:
$2.05
COST PER SERVING:
$1.03
Preparation Protocol
- Scramble the Eggs: Scramble eggs in a hot, oiled wok or skillet until just set, then remove and set aside.
- Fry the Rice: Add more oil to the pan, then add day-old rice, breaking up clumps. Fry over high heat for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine: Add frozen peas and carrots, soy sauce, and the scrambled eggs back into the pan. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Finish: Top with sliced green onion before serving.