Looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s packed with colorful veggies? This Vegetable Fried Rice recipe is the idealize arrangement. Not only is it easy to make, but it also makes excellent use of leftover rice, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Follow along to learn how to create this restaurant-style vegetable fried rice in the comfort of your home.
Table of Contents
Vegetable Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice preferably a day old for best results
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables e.g., carrots, peas, bell peppers, and green beans
- 2 tablespoons of oil preferably sesame oil for a richer flavor
- 1/4 cup of chopped onions
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce low sodium recommended
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Rice:
- If you’re using fresh rice, spread it on a tray to cool and dry for 15 minutes. Day-old rice works best for fricasseed rice since it's less sticky and retains flavors way better.
Heat Oil:
- In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
Add Vegetables:
- Stir in your mixed vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften but still have some crunch.
Add the Rice:
- Increase the heat and add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring everything together until the rice is heated through and coated with the oil.
Season:
- Pour within the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Continue stirring until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with soy sauce.
Garnish:
- Top with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Use Cold Rice: Fresh rice can be too sticky for fried rice. If you only have fresh rice, cool it in the fridge for 30 minutes before using. For more insights on why day-old rice is ideal, check out this guide to perfect fried rice by Serious Eats.
- Add Protein: For a complete meal, add scrambled eggs, tofu, or cooked chicken or shrimp to the rice.
- Experiment with Veggies: Customize your vegetable fried rice by adding broccoli, zucchini, or baby corn.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps to prevent the rice from getting mushy and gives it a nice, crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in vegetable fried rice. Just make sure to thaw them first to avoid adding excess moisture to the rice.
What kind of rice is best for fried rice?
Long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, is ideal for fried rice because it’s less sticky. Day-old rice is preferable, as it has a firmer texture.
Is vegetable fried rice healthy?
Vegetable fried rice is packed with nutrients from vegetables and can be made healthier by using brown rice and reducing the amount of oil. Use low-sodium soy sauce to limit sodium intake.
Conclusion
Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick, versatile, and delicious dish that you can make with pantry staples and leftover rice. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or as a side dish for a larger meal. Experiment with your favorite veggies and seasonings, and make it your own!
Explore more recipes on our recipes page for inspiration on easy and flavorful meals you can make at home.
