Very Veggie Fried Rice Recipe

Very Veggie Fried Rice Recipe

This Very Veggie Fried Rice is a colorful, healthy, and delicious dish packed with vegetables, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. It’s quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, offering a great way to use up leftover rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or day-old)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1/2 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Use cold or day-old cooked rice for the best texture. Spread it out on a plate to remove clumps if necessary.
2. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are soft.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced carrots, bell peppers, peas, corn, and broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Scramble the Eggs (optional):
   • Push the vegetables to the side of the pan. Add the beaten eggs to the empty space and scramble them until fully cooked. Then mix them into the vegetables.
5. Add the Rice:
   • Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through and begins to crisp.
6. Season:
   • Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil (if using). Stir everything together to coat the rice and vegetables evenly. Season with black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Tips:

• Add Protein: You can add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.
• Use Leftover Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Customize the Flavor: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce for spice.

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Very Veggie Fried Rice!