Perfectly Crisp Vegetarian Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you're craving something hearty for dinner or looking to use up leftover vegetables from your fridge, this vegetarian fried rice recipe offers a quick and satisfying meal solution. Perfectly crisp vegetables and fluffy grains come together in one pan with a little bit of soy sauce to tie it all together. Let's dive into how easy this dish is to prepare!

The key to making the most out of your favorite leftover vegetables or even just fresh ones from the market, is to have everything cut up and ready before you start cooking. This way, once the heat is on, you can simply add in each element as it’s needed without any delays.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked long grain rice (preferably cold)
2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn) – chopped into bite-sized pieces
3-4 eggs
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
1 onion, diced finely
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil if you prefer)
Salt and pepper to taste
(Optional) Green onions or cilantro for garnish

Cooking Time and Servings

Cooking time: 30 minutes.

This dish feeds approximately four people, but you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your household size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large frying pan or wok over medium heat, add the oil and once it is hot, crack in the eggs. Scramble until they are cooked through but still retain some moisture. This should take around 3 minutes. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
Add more oil if necessary to your pan and sauté the onions for about two minutes until soft and translucent. Then add in the garlic and cook for another minute stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.
Now, add your mixed vegetables into the pan along with a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari if desired. Stir-fry these until they are just beginning to turn tender but still have some crunch left.
Add the rice to the pan and mix thoroughly with everything else. Continue cooking for about five minutes, stirring frequently so that the rice heats through evenly without burning.
Once the grains seem heated enough, gently fold in your scrambled eggs back into the mixture. Mix well and season with salt and pepper according to taste. If you prefer more flavor, toss in some soy sauce or tamari here as well before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use leftover rice: For best results, use cold cooked long grain rice. If using fresh, it will require more cooking time to ensure it's properly heated through without becoming soggy.
Vary the vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas for a change in flavor and texture.
Add protein: If you're looking for extra protein, consider adding sliced chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu. Just cook these separately first before combining them into the fried rice mixture.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Top your dish off with some chopped green onions or cilantro just before serving to give it that extra burst of freshness and color.

Health Benefits of Vegetarian Fried Rice

Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of vegetables like those used in this dish can contribute significantly towards good health. Vegetables are rich sources of essential vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants which help protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Moreover, incorporating whole grains into your meal plan is beneficial for managing blood sugar levels because they release energy slowly over time instead of spiking them up quickly like refined carbohydrates do. Whole grains also contribute towards improving digestive health through their high fiber content.

Conclusion

Fried rice dishes are among the simplest yet most satisfying meals you can prepare at home. By mastering this basic recipe, you open yourself to endless possibilities when it comes to creating new versions of this classic dish. Experiment with different vegetables or proteins until you find a combination that suits your tastes perfectly.