Traditional Vegetable Fried Rice

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

Traditional Vegetable Fried Rice is your go-to comfort food, bringing simple ingredients together in a delightful, savory way. It's perfect for using up leftover rice and veggies, making it both economical and satisfying. Let's dive into this flavorful, easy-to-make dish that's a staple in many kitchens.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Great way to use leftover rice and minimize food waste.
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
  • Perfect balance of flavors with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white rice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
2 eggs, beaten
3 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Ingredients Explained

Cooked white rice serves as the perfect base, absorbing flavors while adding texture. Vegetable oil helps to sauté the ingredients, giving them a slight crisp. A mix of peas, carrots, and bell peppers adds color and nutrients while contributing to the dish's overall flavor. The eggs provide a protein boost and a nice, fluffy element to the rice. Green onions offer a fresh, slightly sharp note that complements the other flavors. Soy sauce brings savory depth, while sesame oil adds a nutty aroma. Finally, a touch of salt and black pepper enhances the taste, making each bite deliciously seasoned.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use day-old rice for best results; it's drier and absorbs flavors better.
  • Cut vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of ginger or garlic when stir-frying the vegetables.

Detailed Instructions

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir them around for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their flavors.

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, creating a little space for the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into that space and scramble them until they're fully cooked. This should take just a couple of minutes.

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and the cooked rice into the skillet. Stir everything together—mixing the rice with those lovely veggies and fluffy eggs. This combination is already looking pretty tempting!

Now, drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, followed by a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly, making sure every grain of rice is coated with those delicious flavors. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and heated through.

For the final touch, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top just before serving. They add a burst of color and a fresh crunch to your dish.

Simplified Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the beaten eggs, scrambling until fully cooked.
4. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with vegetables and eggs.
5. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
6. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This fried rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or tofu for a more substantial meal. If you're looking for a lighter option, serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad. It also makes a great side dish for Asian-inspired mains like teriyaki salmon or sweet and sour pork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, just make sure it's cooked and cooled before using.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Omit the eggs and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or tofu for a plant-based protein alternative.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize with broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms—whatever you have on hand!

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