Looking for a quick and tasty meal that pleases everyone? You’ve come to the right place! This Easy Vegetable Fried Rice packs flavor and nutrition into every bite, all in under 30 minutes. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever tricks, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying dish your family will love. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that transforms leftover rice into a colorful masterpiece!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
Additional Ingredients
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Optional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, sliced
– 2 eggs (for added protein)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Vegetable Fried Rice. Using day-old rice makes a big difference. It holds its shape better when frying. Fresh rice can be used, but cool it first. Fresh vegetables add color and crunch. You can mix and match any veggies you love.
The optional ingredients let you customize the dish. Adding eggs boosts protein and flavor. If you want a plant-based option, skip the eggs. This recipe is flexible, so have fun with it. Check out the Full Recipe for more details on cooking methods.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
– Cook jasmine rice ahead of time and let it cool.
– Chop all vegetables and mince garlic before starting.
Start with the rice. Day-old jasmine rice works best because it stays firm. Fresh rice can be used, but remember to cool it down first. Chopping your veggies and mincing garlic ahead of time saves you a lot of hassle later. This makes cooking smooth and quick.
Heat the Oil
– In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
– Sauté chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Next, heat your oil in a large skillet or wok. Medium-high heat is perfect for this. Add the onion and sauté it for 2-3 minutes. The onion should turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds a great base for your fried rice.
Cook the Vegetables
– Add minced garlic and mixed vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
– Incorporate diced bell pepper and stir-fry for 2 additional minutes.
Now, add your minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Stir them around for about 3-4 minutes. This helps soften the veggies while keeping them colorful. After that, toss in the diced bell pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes for a nice crunch.
Scramble the Eggs (Optional)
– Push vegetables to one side, crack in eggs, and scramble until fully cooked.
– Mix scrambled eggs with vegetables.
If you want to add eggs, this is the time. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Mix the eggs in with the veggies for extra flavor and protein.
Combine Rice
– Add day-old rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps.
– Stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
Now it’s time for the rice. Add your day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps so it mixes well. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is coated with the veggie mixture. This is where the magic happens!
Season and Garnish
– Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice; mix thoroughly.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste; top with green onions and sesame seeds.
Finally, drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Mix it all very well. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. For a beautiful finish, top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your colorful veggie fried rice! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Preparation
– Use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice can be too sticky.
– Pre-chop all vegetables for quick cooking. This saves time and keeps things simple.
Cooking Techniques
– Stir-fry at high heat for better flavor and texture. This keeps the rice from getting mushy.
– Avoid overcooking vegetables to maintain crunch. Aim for a bright color and firm bite.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve in large bowls or individual plates. This makes it easy for guests to help themselves.
– Add lime for a fresh side garnish to enhance flavors. A squeeze of lime brightens the dish.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can boost protein in your fried rice. Add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for more substance. If you prefer a plant-based option, use chickpea flour instead of eggs. This keeps the dish vegan-friendly and still tasty.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies. Zucchini and bell peppers work well. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale. These greens not only add color but also pack in nutrition.
Flavored Versions
Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors. Try different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique taste. You can also spice things up with ginger or chili flakes. This adds a nice kick to your meal.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your vegetable fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. When it’s time to eat, reheat it in a skillet for the best results. This method keeps the rice crispy and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the fried rice in single-serving portions. It stays good for up to a month. To use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This way, it retains its taste and texture.
Reheating Tips
You can reheat your rice in two ways: in the microwave or by stir-frying. If it seems dry, add a splash of water while reheating. This helps to bring back moisture and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
How long does it take to make Easy Vegetable Fried Rice?
It takes about 30 minutes to make Easy Vegetable Fried Rice. You need 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.
Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?
You can use fresh rice, but day-old rice is better. Day-old rice has a firmer texture. If using fresh rice, cool it down well before cooking.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly. Just skip the eggs and use plant-based ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to vegetable fried rice?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like. Use what you have on hand for more flavor and nutrition.
You can easily make delicious vegetable fried rice using simple steps and fresh ingredients. We covered the main and optional ingredients, cooking techniques, and variations to suit your taste. Remember to use day-old rice for the best texture and to prep ahead for quick cooking. Get creative with protein additions and seasonal vegetables. This dish is easy to store and reheat. Enjoy your tasty meal!
