Quick & Easy Vegetarian Fried Rice: Weeknight Dinner Ideas
Okay, let's make a delicious vegetarian fried rice! Here's a recipe focusing on vegetables and flavor:
Ingredients:
* Rice: 2-3 cups cooked rice (day-old is best)
* Vegetables: (Use about 2 cups total, feel free to mix and match)
* 1/2 cup diced carrots
* 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
* 1/2 cup chopped onions
* 1/2 cup frozen peas (or fresh)
* 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets (small)
* 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
* 1/4 cup bean sprouts (optional)
* Eggs (optional, but adds protein): 2 eggs, lightly beaten (If you want it strictly vegan, skip this and maybe add some diced tofu)
* Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
* Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced (optional, adds great flavor)
* Soy sauce: 2-3 tablespoons (or tamari for gluten-free)
* Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, adds a nice aroma)
* Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (or any neutral oil)
* Salt and pepper: to taste
* Green onions: chopped, for garnish
* Optional additions: A few drops of chili oil or sriracha for heat, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for texture.
Instructions:
* Prepare the rice: If using fresh rice, cook according to package directions and let it cool completely. Day-old rice is ideal.
* Scramble the eggs (optional): If using eggs, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and cook, stirring constantly, until scrambled. Remove and set aside.
* Stir-fry the aromatics: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger (if using) and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
* Stir-fry the vegetables: Add the carrots, bell peppers, and onions to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the broccoli and mushrooms (if using) and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes. Add the peas and bean sprouts (if using) in the last minute.
* Add the rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and break up any clumps. Stir-fry until heated through.
* Season the rice: Add the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir-fry to coat the rice evenly.
* Combine everything: If using eggs, add them back to the skillet and stir to combine.
* Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot.
Tips and Variations for a Vegetarian Version:
* Tofu: For extra protein in a vegan version, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Press out excess water, dice it, and pan-fry it until golden brown before adding it to the stir-fry.
* Mushrooms: Mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami flavor. Shiitake, cremini, or oyster mushrooms are all good choices.
* More veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, water chestnuts, or baby spinach.
* Flavor boosters: A dash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice at the end can add a bright note.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy vegetarian fried rice!
