Vegetable Fried Rice
A quick and easy weeknight meal that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful dish packed with crisp vegetables and savory sauces. Better than takeout and ready in under 20 minutes!
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Eggs
- b.Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and cook, stirring gently, for about 1-2 minutes until they are softly scrambled.
- d.Remove the scrambled eggs from the wok and set them aside on a plate.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- b.Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the same wok over high heat.
- c.Once the oil is very hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and crisp-tender.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Rice
- b.Add the cold, cooked rice to the wok with the vegetables. Use your spatula to gently break up any large clumps.
- c.Spread the rice in an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to allow it to toast slightly.
- d.Stir and toss the rice with the vegetables until everything is well combined and the rice is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Season and Serve
- b.Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the rice. Sprinkle with salt and white pepper.
- c.Toss everything vigorously to coat the rice evenly with the seasonings.
- d.Return the cooked scrambled eggs to the wok, along with the green parts of the scallions.
- e.Remove the wok from the heat. Drizzle with the toasted sesame oil and give it one final toss to combine all the flavors.
- f.Serve immediately while hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use day-old, cold rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in mushy fried rice.
- 2Get your wok or skillet very hot before adding ingredients. This ensures a proper stir-fry and prevents sticking.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan. If you're doubling the recipe, cook in two batches for the best texture.
- 4Have all your ingredients chopped and measured before you start cooking (mise en place), as stir-frying happens very quickly.
- 5Add the toasted sesame oil at the very end, off the heat, to preserve its delicate, nutty flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
For a more substantial meal, add 1 cup of diced firm tofu, cooked shrimp, or shredded chicken. Sauté the protein separately and add it back in with the scrambled eggs.
Spicy VersionSpicy Version
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and ginger for a spicy kick.
Different VegetablesDifferent Vegetables
Feel free to use other quick-cooking vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli florets, or bean sprouts. Add them along with the mixed vegetables.
Low Carb OptionLow-Carb Option
Substitute the jasmine rice with an equal amount of cauliflower rice. Add the cauliflower rice after the aromatics and cook until tender-crisp before adding other ingredients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Fiber
The variety of vegetables like peas, carrots, and green beans provides dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Provides Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from the rice offer a quick and easily digestible source of energy, making this a great meal to refuel your body.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
This dish is packed with essential nutrients from its diverse ingredients, including Vitamin A from carrots, Vitamin C from peas, and B vitamins from the eggs and rice.
Contains Plant-Based Protein
The combination of eggs and vegetables like peas contributes a moderate amount of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall body function.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this Vegetable Fried Rice contains approximately 390 calories, making it a reasonably light yet satisfying main course.