Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe | Vegan & Vegetarian Chinese Food

Region / culture: China | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Vegetable fried rice is a popular and delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with colorful vegetables and flavorful seasonings, this dish is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Fried rice has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, with each region putting its own unique twist on the dish. Vegetable fried rice, in particular, has become a favorite among those looking for a healthy and tasty meal option.

Ingredients

0.5 cup sliced celery
0.25 cup chopped onion
0.25 cup peas
0.25 cup chopped carrots
0.25 cup chopped corn, broccoli, peppers or mushrooms (optional)
2 cup boiled rice
1 tbsp worcestershire or soy sauce
0.25 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
2 tsp vegetable oil
Dash of pepper

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a pan. Add the celery, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
Add the peas and carrots, along with any optional ingredients.
Continue stir-frying, ensuring all the pieces are evenly cooked and tender, for about 4 minutes.
Add the rice, Worcestershire or soy sauce, and pepper.
Stir-fry for approximately 2 minutes.

Variations

Add scrambled eggs for extra protein.
Use brown rice for a healthier alternative.
Add shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use day-old rice for the best results, as fresh rice can become mushy when stir-fried.

- Cut your vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use high heat when stir-frying to achieve that classic fried rice texture.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or protein sources.

Serving Suggestions

Serve vegetable fried rice as a main dish or as a side to your favorite protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute olive oil for vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the vegetables and rice ahead of time for a quick and easy meal prep option.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair vegetable fried rice with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover vegetable fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 200

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Proteins

Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

Vegetable fried rice is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vegetable fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with colorful vegetables and flavorful seasonings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Vegetable Fried Rice. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl growing up in a small village in China. My family didn't have much, but we always made do with what we had. Our meals were simple, yet delicious, and my mother was a master at creating flavorful dishes out of basic ingredients.

One day, I was wandering through the bustling market in our village when I stumbled upon a stall selling all sorts of spices and seasonings. The aroma that wafted through the air was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist stopping to take a closer look. The elderly woman behind the counter smiled warmly at me and beckoned me closer.

"Would you like to try something new, young one?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I have a recipe for Vegetable Fried Rice that will surely delight your taste buds."

I was intrigued. I had never tried Vegetable Fried Rice before, but I had heard of it from some of the older women in the village. They all raved about how delicious it was, and I was eager to see what all the fuss was about. The woman handed me a small packet of spices and a handwritten recipe, then waved me off with a kind smile.

As soon as I returned home, I set to work in the kitchen. I carefully chopped up an assortment of vegetables - carrots, peas, bell peppers, and onions - and set them aside. I then cracked a few eggs into a bowl and whisked them together with a splash of soy sauce. The smell of the spices from the market filled the air, and I couldn't wait to see how they would transform my simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

I heated up a wok on the stove and poured in a drizzle of oil. The vegetables sizzled as I tossed them around in the hot pan, their colors brightening with each passing moment. I added in the eggs, stirring them into the mix until they formed soft, fluffy curds. Finally, I sprinkled in the spices and watched as the dish came together before my eyes.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly - a fragrant blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger that made my mouth water. I scooped the Vegetable Fried Rice onto a plate and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each ingredient complementing the next in a harmonious dance of taste and texture. I knew then that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, Vegetable Fried Rice became a staple in our household. I would make it for my family on special occasions, and they would always shower me with praise for my cooking skills. My mother, in particular, was impressed with how quickly I had mastered the recipe, and she encouraged me to experiment with different variations.

Over the years, I honed my skills in the kitchen, learning new techniques and incorporating fresh ingredients into my dishes. I discovered that the key to a perfect Vegetable Fried Rice lies in the balance of flavors - the sweetness of the peas, the crunch of the carrots, the umami richness of the soy sauce. Each bite is a symphony of tastes that never fails to bring a smile to my face.

As I grew older and ventured out into the world, I carried the recipe for Vegetable Fried Rice with me wherever I went. I shared it with friends and neighbors, spreading the joy of good food to all who crossed my path. It became my signature dish, a symbol of my love for cooking and my desire to bring people together through the simple act of sharing a meal.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in the market all those years ago, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me so much joy and fulfillment over the years, and I know that it will continue to do so for many more to come. I may have learned how to make Vegetable Fried Rice from a kind stranger in a bustling market, but it is the memories and moments that I have shared with my loved ones that truly make this dish special.