Garden Harvest Fried Rice

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Garden Harvest Fried Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that makes the most of fresh, seasonal vegetables. It's a perfect way to use up leftover rice, turning it into a wholesome, colorful meal that’s ready in no time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A great way to use up leftover rice and fresh veggies from your garden.
  • Full of bright, fresh flavors and a variety of textures.
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

2 cups of day-old cooked jasmine rice
1 tablespoon of canola oil
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
1/2 cup chopped asparagus
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/4 cup diced carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients Explained

Day-old cooked jasmine rice is ideal because it’s slightly dried out, which prevents it from becoming mushy when fried. Canola oil is used for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it perfect for stir-frying. The diced bell peppers and chopped asparagus add a burst of color and a slight crunch. Corn kernels bring a touch of sweetness, while diced carrots add texture and mild sweetness. Garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor. The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil delivers a balanced savory and slightly tangy taste. Green onions, basil, and cilantro are added at the end for fresh, herbal notes. Finally, salt and pepper are used to enhance all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use cold rice straight from the fridge to prevent it from clumping together.
  • Cut all your vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • A splash of lime juice before serving can brighten up the flavors even more.

Detailed Instructions

Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the canola oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it until it's fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.

Next, add the diced bell peppers, chopped asparagus, corn kernels, and diced carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry these veggies for around 5 minutes. You want them slightly tender but still vibrant and crisp.

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet so you have space to add the cooked jasmine rice. Pour the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil directly over the rice. Mix the rice well to ensure it's thoroughly coated with the sauces.

Now combine the rice with the vegetables, stirring everything together to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed. It’s important to keep everything moving so nothing sticks to the pan or burns.

Finally, stir in the chopped green onions, basil, and cilantro. These will add a fresh burst of flavor and a lovely fragrance. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the fried rice hot, and enjoy!

Simplified Instructions

1. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add diced bell peppers, asparagus, corn, and carrots; stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cooked jasmine rice to the other side.
5. Pour soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the rice and mix well.
6. Combine rice with vegetables, stirring to ensure even distribution.
7. Stir in chopped green onions, basil, and cilantro until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This fried rice pairs beautifully with a simple green salad for a light meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A dollop of sriracha or hoisin sauce on the side can add an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, any long-grain rice will work, but jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

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