Instructions for Making Fried Rice with Vegetables
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
If you don’t have leftover rice, make sure to cook your rice ahead of time. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool. It’s important that the rice is cold or at least room temperature before frying, as this prevents it from becoming sticky or mushy in the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen vegetables, thaw them before cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure your pan is very hot before you add any ingredients; this will help everything cook quickly and evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs (Optional)
If you’re using eggs, beat them in a bowl and pour them into the hot pan. Scramble them quickly and cook until they are just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside for later.
Step 5: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan, and then toss in the garlic and onions. Stir-fry them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent. Add your mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, depending on the type of vegetables. The vegetables should be tender but still crisp.
Step 6: Fry the Rice
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the cold rice to the other side. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) over the rice. Stir-fry the rice, mixing it with the vegetables until everything is well combined and heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to break up any clumps of rice with your spatula.
Step 7: Combine and Season
Once the rice is heated, stir in the scrambled eggs (if using) and mix well. Taste the rice and season with salt, pepper, and additional soy sauce if needed. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red chili flakes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the fried rice from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations and Tips
- Protein additions: While this recipe is focused on vegetables, you can easily add cooked proteins like tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef for a heartier meal.
- Rice options: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Spice it up: For more heat, add sriracha, chili paste, or fresh chopped chilies.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
- Use fresh or frozen vegetables: Frozen veggies are convenient, but fresh vegetables add more texture. Just make sure to chop them evenly for quick cooking.
Health Benefits of Fried Rice with Vegetables
Fried rice with vegetables offers several nutritional benefits:
- Rich in fiber: Vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli are high in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Packed with vitamins: The variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
- Low in fat: By using minimal oil and lots of vegetables, this dish is lower in fat compared to traditional fried rice recipes that use more oil or butter.
- Customizable for dietary needs: This recipe can easily be made vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb, depending on the type of rice and ingredients you choose.
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