Introduction
Fried rice is a beloved dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures in one satisfying bowl. It is incredibly easy to make at home and can be customized with various ingredients. This recipe from Love and Lemons makes use of fresh vegetables and pantry staples to create a delicious and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish, let’s dive into this easy fried rice recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons plus ½ teaspoon neutral oil (such as avocado or vegetable oil)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– ½ medium white onion, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 3 garlic cloves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped
– 4 scallions, chopped (dark green tops reserved for garnish)
– 4 cups cooked and chilled white rice
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
– 1½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes
Cook Time
Around 20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your homemade fried rice!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Scramble the Eggs
Heat ½ teaspoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and cook, stirring often, for about 1 minute until scrambled. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
Wipe out the pan and return it to medium heat. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil, then add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and frozen peas. Cook, stirring often, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until softened.
Add Aromatics
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan along with the chopped garlic, ginger, and the white and light green parts of the scallions. Stir to combine.
Fry the Rice
Add the cooked and chilled rice to the pan along with the soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of the toasted sesame oil. Stir to coat the rice evenly, then press it into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. Cook, stirring only occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the rice to become lightly crisp and browned.
Combine and Serve
Stir in the remaining ½ tablespoon sesame oil, the rice vinegar, and the scrambled eggs. Season to taste. Garnish with the reserved dark green scallion tops before serving.
Notes
Oil Selection
Using neutral oils like avocado or vegetable oil helps to highlight the flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.
Rice Preparation
It is best to use cooked and chilled rice for frying, as fresh rice can become mushy when cooked.
Customization
Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins, such as bell peppers, corn, or chicken, to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Fried rice can be served as a side dish, or as a main meal topped with your choice of protein.
Cook techniques
Egg Scrambling
Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, stirring frequently until just set.
Vegetable Sautéing
Use medium heat to warm oil in a skillet. Add chopped vegetables and cook while stirring until they soften, typically 3 to 5 minutes.
Aromatic Infusion
Add chopped garlic, ginger, and scallion parts to the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously to release their flavors into the oil.
Fried Rice Technique
Incorporate cold, cooked rice into the pan with seasonings. Press the rice into an even layer and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve a crispy texture.
Finishing Touches
Add flavored oils and any remaining ingredients at the end of cooking, combining everything gently to ensure even distribution without breaking the rice.
FAQ
Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover rice is ideal as it is drier and prevents clumping when frying.
What type of oil is best for frying rice?
Neutral oils like vegetable, avocado, or canola work best because they won’t overpower the flavors of the dish.
Can I add other proteins to the fried rice?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use more neutral oil or omit it, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
To make it vegetarian, omit the eggs or substitute with tofu. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
Homemade fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish that easily adapts to various flavors and ingredients. With this Easy Fried Rice recipe, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to make it your own!
Vegetarian Fried Rice
Swap out the eggs for extra tofu or use additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Protein-Packed Fried Rice
Add chicken, shrimp, or beef for a protein boost. Cook the meat first, then remove it from the pan and add it back after mixing in the rice.
Spicy Fried Rice
Incorporate sriracha or chili paste for a spicy kick. You can also add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
Pineapple Fried Rice
For a sweet and savory twist, mix in chopped pineapple, cashews, and some curry powder for a tropical flair.
Quinoa Fried Rice
Replace the white rice with cooked quinoa for a healthier alternative. Add in more vegetables and nuts for a nutritious take.
Curry Fried Rice
Stir in some curry powder or coconut milk to bring a rich flavor to your fried rice, along with veggies like broccoli and peas.
Egg Fried Rice with Veggies
Enhance the egg fried rice by loading it up with a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, and snap peas.
Herbed Fried Rice
Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end of cooking for a fresh and aromatic twist that brightens up the dish.
