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Vegetable Fried Rice

This vegetable fried rice is a vibrant, comforting dish made by stir-frying leftover rice with a medley of odds and ends from the fridge. The process involves quick sautéing of vegetables, garlic, and ginger, then tossing everything together with soy sauce to create a glossy, flavorful dish with a slightly crispy texture. It’s a colorful, satisfying meal that transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, homely plate.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups day-old jasmine rice preferably chilled for better frying
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, odds and ends) thinly sliced or diced
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger peeled and minced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas no need to thaw
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil for aroma
  • 2 spring onions spring onions chopped, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

  1. Heat your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until you hear a gentle sizzle and smell a rich aroma.
  2. Toss in the sliced vegetables, stirring quickly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and turn vibrant, with a slight char at the edges. They should still retain some crunch.
  3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add a bit more oil if needed, then add the chilled rice. Break up any clumps and stir vigorously, frying the rice for 3-4 minutes until it warms through and takes on a slightly crispy, smoky appearance.
  4. Pour the soy sauce evenly over the rice and toss everything together. Continue stir-frying for another minute, allowing the rice to absorb the soy and develop a glossy, flavorful coating.
  5. Add the frozen peas and chopped spring onions, stirring well. Cook for another minute until the peas are heated through and bright green, and the onions are slightly wilted.
  6. Finish by drizzling the sesame oil over the rice, giving it a fragrant, nutty aroma. Toss one last time to evenly distribute the oil.
  7. Remove the fried rice from the heat and transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped spring onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.