
This fried rice transforms leftover rice into a creamy, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and quick.
I developed this method to add richness without heaviness, using mayonnaise to coat each grain while keeping the dish light. The sweet corn and vegetables add texture and color, creating a balanced bite every time.
The wok-tossed technique ensures even cooking and a slightly crispy edge on some grains. It’s a simple way to elevate a classic dish with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy nights when you need something filling and flavorful in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients for Mayo Corn Fried Rice
A short list of everyday ingredients transforms into this rich, comforting wok-tossed dish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked White Rice 🍚 | 4 cups | Day-old, chilled preferred |
| Mayonnaise 🥛 | ½ cup | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Sweet Corn Kernels 🌽 | 1 ½ cups | Fresh, frozen, or canned |
| Large Eggs 🥚 | 3 whole | Beaten for scrambling |
| Green Peas 🌱 | ¾ cup | Fresh or frozen |
| Carrot 🥕 | 1 whole | Finely diced for texture |
| Green Onions 🧅 | 3 whole | Thinly sliced, green parts only |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 3 cloves | Minced for aromatic base |
| Soy Sauce 🫒 | 2 tbsp | Low-sodium preferred |
| Sesame Oil 🫒 | 1 tsp | Toasted for nutty flavor |
| Vegetable Oil 🫒 | 2 tbsp | High smoke point for frying |
| Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| White Pepper 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Ground, for subtle heat |
The rice is critical here—day-old, chilled white rice fries up fluffy and separate. Jasmine or basmati are ideal for their slightly sticky texture that grabs the creamy coating. Most grocery stores carry pre-cooked rice in the refrigerated section (look for Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods brands), but leftover takeout works perfectly. The mayonnaise should be full-fat—light versions won’t deliver the same luxurious mouthfeel.
No mayonnaise? Greek yogurt at one-to-one ratio works in a pinch (though it adds tang). Frozen corn and peas are perfect—no need to thaw. Want more crunch? Add diced bell peppers or snap peas. The soy sauce can be swapped for tamari if gluten-free is needed. For extra depth, a dash of oyster sauce (vegetarian version) deepens the umami.
Leftover fried rice keeps 3-4 days in the fridge—reheat in a skillet to revive texture. Freezing works for 2 months, but the creamy coating may separate slightly. Best eaten fresh, straight from the wok while the edges are still crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pan Magic: I just dump everything in—rice, mayo, corn, peas—and the eggs go right in the same pan.
- Creamy Corn Delight: That mayo makes the rice so rich, and the sweet corn bursts with every bite.
- Lunchbox Hero: I pack the leftovers for work the next day, and it tastes even better cold.
- Pocket Friendly: A handful of pantry staples and a few eggs stretch a long way without breaking the bank.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mayo Corn Fried Rice
This method ensures each grain stays distinct while delivering that signature creamy richness.
Step 1: Prepare and Scramble the Eggs
Beat the 3 whole Large Eggs in a bowl with a pinch of the 0.5 tsp Salt and 0.25 tsp White Pepper. Heat 1 tbsp of the 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Pour in the beaten eggs and let them set for 10 seconds before stirring gently with a spatula. Cook until just set but still slightly runny—this ensures they stay tender in the final dish. Remove the scrambled eggs and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tbsp of Vegetable Oil to the same pan. Add the minced 3 cloves Garlic Cloves and stir for 10-15 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add the finely diced 1 whole Carrot and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the 1.5 cups Sweet Corn Kernels and 0.75 cup Green Peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and the corn develops slight color. The pan should be hot enough to create a gentle sizzle but not so hot that the garlic burns.
Step 3: Incorporate Rice and Seasonings
Add the 4 cups Cooked White Rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Press the rice against the hot surface for 30 seconds to crisp slightly—this adds texture contrast to the creamy elements. Drizzle the 2 tbsp Soy Sauce evenly over the rice and stir to distribute the color uniformly.
Season with the remaining Salt and White Pepper. The rice should now be hot throughout with a light golden hue from the soy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, remembering that the mayonnaise will add richness but not saltiness.
Step 4: Finish with Mayonnaise and Garnish
Reduce heat to medium-low and add the 0.5 cup Mayonnaise in 2-3 stages, stirring vigorously between additions to emulsify it into the rice. This technique prevents the mayonnaise from separating and creates that signature creamy coating on each grain.
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and fold gently to combine. Stir in the 1 tsp Sesame Oil for its nutty aroma. The rice should now have a glossy appearance with visible flecks of egg and vegetables.
Remove from heat and fold in the thinly sliced 3 whole Green Onions, reserving a small handful for garnish. The green onions add freshness and color contrast to the rich dish.
Pro Tips For Making Mayo Corn Fried Rice
- Use Cold Rice: I learned this the hard way—fresh, warm rice turns mushy. Spread leftover rice on a tray and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the grains stay separate when fried.
- Scramble Eggs First: Push scrambled eggs to one side of the pan before adding other ingredients. This keeps them soft and distinct instead of disappearing into the rice.
- Add Mayo Last: Stir in the mayonnaise only after everything is heated through. Adding it too early can make the rice greasy and weigh it down.
- Skip Frozen Corn: Fresh or canned sweet corn has better texture and sweetness. Frozen kernels can turn rubbery and watery in the high heat of frying.
Common Mistakes When Making mayo corn fried rice
Overcrowding the Pan
Adding all ingredients at once drops the pan temperature too fast. I cook in 2-3 stages: eggs first, then vegetables, then rice. This ensures proper browning and that creamy coating we love. 🔥
Using Fresh Rice
Freshly cooked rice turns mushy in fried rice. Always use day-old, chilled rice—it fries up fluffy and separate. Spread hot rice on a tray to cool quickly if you’re in a hurry.
Skipping the Wok Toss
Stirring gently won’t create that signature texture. Use a spatula to press rice against the hot surface for 30 seconds to develop crispy edges. The contrast with the creamy mayo is what makes this dish special.
Adding Mayo Too Soon
Mayonnaise can separate if added to a too-hot pan. Wait until after the rice and vegetables are fully heated. Then reduce to medium-low heat and add mayo in 2-3 stages, stirring vigorously between each addition.
Overcooking the Eggs
Eggs should be just set but still slightly runny when removed from the pan. They’ll finish cooking when folded back into the hot rice. Overcooked eggs become rubbery and ruin the dish’s delicate texture.
Forgetting to Season
Mayonnaise adds richness but not salt. Taste after adding soy sauce and adjust with remaining salt and white pepper. The flavors should be balanced, not flat. 💡
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old?
Fresh rice will turn mushy when fried. For best texture, spread hot rice on a tray and chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours before cooking. This dries it out slightly for perfect results.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Full-fat Greek yogurt works in a 1:1 ratio, though it adds tang. For a lighter option, try 2 tbsp cream cheese mixed with 2 tbsp milk to maintain creaminess.
How do I prevent the eggs from becoming rubbery?
Cook eggs just until set but still slightly runny, then remove from the pan. They’ll finish cooking when folded back into the hot rice at the end. This keeps them tender.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Try diced bell peppers or snap peas. Sauté them with the corn and peas for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp before adding the rice.
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