The vegetable fried rice recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the comforting flavors of rice. This popular dish is a go-to option for anyone looking for a quick, simple, and healthy meal.
Vegetable fried rice is a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians because it provides an excellent balance of tastes and an excellent combination of textures, in addition to bursting with brilliant colors. Vegetable fried rice is a culinary pleasure that never fails to satisfy appetites and excite taste senses, whether it serves itself as a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish.
What is vegetable fried rice?
A wonderful and popular meal called “vegetable fried rice” is created by stir-frying cooked rice with a variety of fresh veggies. It is a flexible recipe that allows for many changes based on personal tastes and the ingredients that are on hand.
The dish typically includes vegetables such as carrots, peas, bell peppers, onions, and corn, but can also incorporate mushrooms, broccoli, or any other veggies of choice. Soy sauce, garlic, and other spices are used to season the rice, giving it a savory and delicious taste.
Served alongside other meals as part of a greater spread or savored on its own, vegetable fried rice is a filling and healthy supper.
What is in vegetable fried rice?
Vegetable fried rice typically includes the following ingredients:
- Rice: Long-grain or medium-grain rice is commonly used, although jasmine or basmati rice can also be used.
- Vegetables: A variety of vegetables are used in vegetable fried rice, including carrots, peas, bell peppers, onions, broccoli, corn, and mushrooms. You can use any combination of vegetables based on your preference.
- Garlic and ginger: These aromatic ingredients add flavor to the dish. Garlic is usually minced or finely chopped, while ginger is grated or minced.
- Soy sauce: This savory sauce adds a rich umami flavor and a dark color to the fried rice. You can use light or dark soy sauce, depending on your taste preference.
- Sesame oil: A small amount of sesame oil is often added for its distinct nutty flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs are commonly incorporated into fried rice. They are usually scrambled and mixed with the other ingredients.
- Vegetable oil: This is used for frying the rice and sautéing the vegetables. You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil.
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings are added to taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Optional ingredients can also be added to customize the fried rice, such as green onions, tofu, cashews, or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
What to serve with vegetable fried rice?
There are several options for what you can serve with vegetable fried rice to create a well-rounded meal. Here are a few suggestions:
- Stir-fried Vegetables: You can serve a side of stir-fried vegetables to add more variety and nutrition to the meal. Use a combination of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots, seasoned with soy sauce or your preferred stir-fry sauce.
- Sweet and Sour Tofu: Sweet and sour tofu is a flavorful dish that pairs well with vegetable fried rice. The tangy and slightly sweet sauce complements the savory rice.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing Asian slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing can provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the fried rice.
- Sesame Ginger Chicken: If you prefer a meat option, sesame ginger chicken is a delicious choice. The flavors of the chicken, sesame, and ginger work well with the vegetable fried rice.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting addition to your meal. It’s made with fermented soybean paste, tofu, seaweed, and sometimes mushrooms or green onions.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can mix and match according to your preferences. The key is to have a balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional elements to create a satisfying meal.
How many calories are in vegetable fried rice?
The number of calories in vegetable fried rice can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, I can provide you with a general estimate of the calorie content. Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and can vary:
On average, a serving of vegetable fried rice (about 1 cup or 200 grams) can contain approximately 200–300 calories. The calorie content primarily comes from the rice, vegetables, and any added oils or sauces used in the recipe.
The calorie content can be higher if the fried rice includes additional ingredients such as tofu, cashews, or eggs. It can also vary based on the cooking method and the amount of oil used for frying.
Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cups cooked and cooled white or brown rice
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup broccoli crowns and stems
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen shelled edamame or peas
- 1 tablespoon of peeled and chopped fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons of finely chopped garlic
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced white and light green parts, plus more for garnish
Instructions
Cook vegetables:
- Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon oil, then broccoli, carrots, cabbage, zucchini, bell pepper, and edamame.
- Stir frequently until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes (they'll have an extra few minutes to cook at the end of the stir-fry, so it's okay if they're still crunchy).
- Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Scramble the eggs:
- Season the beaten eggs with a little salt and pepper. In the same wok or pan, heat 1 more tablespoon of oil over high heat.
- Add the beaten eggs and mix quickly, about 1 minute. When they are just cooked, slide them onto the plate with the vegetables.
Cook the rice:
- Return the wok to the burner on high, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the cooled rice.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned in spots, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ginger and garlic to the rice and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and 1/2 cup scallions.
Finish the process:
- Return the vegetables and eggs to the wok with the rice.
- Cook, stirring often, until combined and heated through, and the vegetables are tender, about 3 minutes.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish and serve:
- Top with more scallions and serve immediately, drizzle with soy sauce for those who want a little extra.
Calories in Vegetable Fried Rice
Calories | 330.0 |
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Total Fat | 6.0 g |
Saturated Fat | 1.0 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g |
Monounsaturated Fat | 0.0 g |
Cholesterol | 32.0 mg |
Sodium | 1,174.0 mg |
Potassium | 0.0 mg |
Total Carbohydrate | 45.0 g |
Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g |
Sugars | 0.0 g |
Protein | 22.0 g |
Vitamin A | 20.0 % |
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Vitamin C | 11 % |
[…] Adds moisture and richness to the recipe. You can use any milk you prefer, whole, skim, almond, or soy […]