Craving a quick, delicious, and healthy meal? Look no further! This vegetarian Indian fried rice recipe is your answer. Packed with vibrant vegetables and fragrant spices, it's a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. Forget takeout – this easy recipe lets you create restaurant-quality fried rice in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice (day-old rice works best!)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, beans, corn – your favorites!), chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro for garnish
- Optional: A squeeze of lime juice for extra zing
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Finely chop the onion, green chili (if using), and your chosen mixed vegetables. Grate the ginger and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process much smoother.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden. This takes about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices and Vegetables
Stir in the green chili (if using), ginger, and garlic. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Now add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice and Vegetables
Add the cooked rice and mixed vegetables to the wok. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Season with salt and soy sauce to your liking. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice (optional) before serving.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- Day-old rice is key: Using day-old rice ensures that it's not too sticky and will fry up perfectly.
- High heat is essential: Use medium-high heat to achieve that delicious wok hei (smoky flavor).
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of vegetables, it's better to cook them in batches to avoid steaming.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more green chili or a pinch of red chili flakes.
Variations:
- Protein boost: Add paneer (Indian cheese), tofu, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and cauliflower are all great additions.
- Egg Fried Rice: Add a couple of scrambled eggs during step 4 for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 45-55g Fat: 5-8g
This quick and easy vegetarian Indian fried rice recipe is a healthy and delicious meal option that's perfect for any day of the week. It's a great way to use up leftover rice and a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Enjoy!