Are you craving a delicious, satisfying meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further! This fried rice recipe skips the egg, making it a quick and easy weeknight dinner, perfect for busy individuals or families. It’s packed with flavor and customizable to your liking, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. This homemade cooking adventure is simpler than you think!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best!)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, broccoli, bell peppers – get creative!)
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional, for extra veggie goodness)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (fresh is best!)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional additions: Chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, make sure all your vegetables are prepped and ready to go. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Finely chopping the onion and garlic will allow them to cook evenly and release their full flavor.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add your chopped vegetables and frozen mixed vegetables (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
Step 4: Incorporate the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the wok. Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and ensure the rice is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Continue to stir-fry for another minute, until everything is heated through and well combined.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious fried rice immediately. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. This makes a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a busy weeknight!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- Day-old rice is key: Using day-old rice prevents it from becoming mushy when stir-fried.
- High heat is important: This ensures the rice cooks quickly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to prevent steaming instead of stir-frying.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Adjust the amount of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and other seasonings to your preference.
Variations:
- Add protein: Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef would be delicious additions to this recipe.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already naturally vegetarian; ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly for a completely plant-based dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on ingredients)
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
- Fat: 5-10 grams
This delicious and easy fried rice recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or simply a flavorful and healthy meal. Enjoy your culinary creation!