Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of *Easy Fried Rice* to make a weeknight dinner feel special! This dish is not only a breeze to whip up, but it’s also incredibly satisfying and delicious. I love it because it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and whatever veggies I have lurking in the fridge. Trust me, the possibilities are endless! You can throw in some chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to make it heartier, or keep it simple and vegetarian. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and the joy of a quick, tasty meal that everyone loves. You’re going to adore how easy this is!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for better texture)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen, like peas, carrots, and corn)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for that delicious finish)
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish and flavor)
How to Prepare Easy Fried Rice
Making *Easy Fried Rice* is so simple, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together! Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. You want it hot enough that a sprinkle of water sizzles when it hits the surface! This will ensure that your veggies get that perfect stir-fry sear.
Step 2: Cook Mixed Vegetables
Add in your mixed vegetables and stir them around for about 3-4 minutes. You’ll want them to be bright and tender, but not mushy. If you’re using frozen veggies, just look for that vibrant color to know they’re ready!
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Now, push the veggies to the side of the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and let them sit for a few seconds to start cooking. Then, gently scramble the eggs with a spatula, mixing them in with those lovely veggies as they cook. You’re looking for soft, fluffy eggs here.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Soy Sauce
Next, add your 2 cups of cooked rice right into the pan. Drizzle the soy sauce over it and stir everything together thoroughly. This is where the magic happens! Make sure the soy sauce is evenly distributed, so every grain of rice gets that delicious flavor.
Step 5: Add Sesame Oil
For the final touch, drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over your fried rice. This adds a nutty, rich flavor that really elevates the dish. Give it a good mix to incorporate it all in!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to serve! Transfer your fried rice to a large bowl or individual plates and sprinkle some chopped green onion on top for a fresh crunch. Wow, doesn’t it look amazing? Enjoy it hot, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Deliciously satisfying with a wonderful mix of flavors and textures.
- Versatile—use any veggies or proteins you have on hand.
- Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable for different diets; vegetarian, vegan, or add your favorite protein!
Tips for Success
To get your *Easy Fried Rice* just right, I recommend using day-old rice if you can. It’s drier and won’t get mushy when you fry it. If you want to add more protein, feel free to toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or even scrambled tofu! Just remember to adjust the cooking time a bit to ensure everything is heated through. Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference!
Nutritional Information
Now, I want to share a little note about the nutritional information. Please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving of *Easy Fried Rice*:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
This dish is not only tasty but also a balanced option that can fit into various meal plans. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?
While you can use freshly cooked rice, I highly recommend using day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be a bit sticky, which can make your fried rice clump together. Day-old rice is drier and will fry up beautifully!
What vegetables can I add?
You can really get creative here! I love using a mix of peas, carrots, and corn, but feel free to throw in bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply skip the eggs, or you can use a scrambled tofu substitute instead. It will still be delicious and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the soy sauce to a vegan-friendly option if that’s a concern!
How long does leftovers last in the fridge?
Your *Easy Fried Rice* will keep well in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again!
What can I serve with fried rice?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of spring rolls, dumplings, or even a simple salad. It’s such a versatile meal that goes well with many different flavors!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your *Easy Fried Rice*, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quick option—just add a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy your leftovers!
Print
Easy Fried Rice: 5 Reasons You’ll Fall in Love
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and quick fried rice recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Push vegetables to the side and scramble eggs in the pan.
- Add cooked rice and soy sauce. Stir well.
- Drizzle sesame oil and mix.
- Garnish with green onion.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for best results.
- Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Easy Fried Rice