Fried Rice is a classic dish that brings together the delightful flavors of rice, mixed vegetables, and savory sauces into one satisfying meal. This quick and flavorful recipe is not only ideal for busy weeknights but also a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Customize it with your choice of protein for a meal that suits your taste!
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and diced bell peppers)
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/2 cup cooked and diced chicken (optional)
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Scramble the Eggs:
Push the aromatics to one side of the skillet, then pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Scramble them until cooked through.
Add Vegetables and Protein:
Add the mixed vegetables and diced chicken (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through.
Incorporate the Rice:
Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps and mixing well with the vegetables and chicken.
Season the Dish:
Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture, stirring continuously to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and continue to stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Flavor: Top your fried rice with additional sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Pair with Sides: Serve the fried rice alongside protein dishes like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal. A side of spring rolls or a fresh salad can also complement the dish well.
Customize Portions: If serving as a main dish, portion out generous servings. For a lighter meal, serve it as a side alongside other dishes.
Serve Hot: Fried rice is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Consider preparing it just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze fried rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave. Make sure it’s heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Avoiding Reheating Multiple Times: It’s best to only reheat what you plan to eat to maintain the quality and safety of the food.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use any type of rice for fried rice?
Yes, while jasmine rice or long-grain rice is often preferred for fried rice due to its texture, you can use any type of cooked rice, including brown rice or even leftover sushi rice. Just ensure the rice is cold to prevent it from becoming mushy during cooking.
How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming mushy?
To prevent mushy fried rice, make sure to use cold, day-old rice. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool before using. Avoid overcooking the vegetables and ensure that the rice is added to the hot skillet or wok to quickly stir-fry.
Can I add other proteins to my fried rice?
Absolutely! Fried rice is highly customizable. You can add cooked shrimp, beef, pork, tofu, or any other protein of your choice. Just ensure the protein is already cooked and diced before adding it to the stir-fry.
What vegetables can I use in fried rice?
You can use a variety of vegetables in fried rice, such as peas, carrots, bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or green beans. Feel free to get creative and use whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer!
Conclusion:
This Fried Rice recipe is a fantastic way to create a delicious meal with minimal effort. Its versatility means you can enjoy it with a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Try this recipe today and discover how easy and enjoyable cooking at home can be!
📖 Recipe:
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Fried Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This quick and flavorful Fried Rice recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner! Made with cold rice, mixed vegetables, and a savory soy sauce, it’s a delicious and easy way to use up leftovers. Customize it by adding chicken or any protein of your choice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and diced bell peppers)
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/2 cup cooked and diced chicken (optional)
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Push the aromatics to one side of the skillet, then pour the beaten eggs onto the other side, scrambling them until cooked through.
- Add the mixed vegetables and diced chicken (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through.
- Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps and mixing well with the vegetables and chicken.
- Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture, stirring continuously to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and continue to stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
For best results, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated overnight.
Customize the vegetables based on what you have available.
Add any cooked protein of your choice to enhance the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 Kcal per serving
Keywords: Fried Rice, Quick Dinner Recipe, Easy Fried Rice, Leftover Rice Recipe, Vegetable Fried Rice, Chicken Fried Rice, Weeknight Dinner, Stir-Fry Recipe, Asian Cuisine, Healthy Fried Rice
