Easy Fried Rice with Vegetables

Easy fried rice is always my go-to recipe when there is leftover rice sitting in the fridge. It is quick comforting and the perfect blank canvas to use up extra veggies and eggs for a speedy dinner or side dish.

The first time I made this version I only had a little leftover rice from takeout and some carrots. It was so good my family started asking for fried rice every week no matter what vegetables we had.

Ingredients

• Cooked white rice: Gives the best texture if your rice is a day old Fresh rice can be sticky but will work if cooled fully
• Butter: Adds richness to the final dish Go for unsalted if you want more control over saltiness
• Carrots: Add crunch and a hint of sweetness Use firm bright carrots for the best flavor
• Onions: Lend depth and a savory base Choose white or yellow onions for more classic flavor
• Frozen peas: A burst of color and subtle sweetness These cook quickly and keep the rice tender
• Minced garlic: Boosts the savory notes Use fresh garlic for the strongest aroma
• Garlic powder: Rounds out the flavor layer and works well with fresh garlic
• Eggs: Beaten eggs add protein and creaminess Choose large farm-fresh eggs if possible
• Vegetable oil: Prevents sticking and helps toast the rice Look for a neutral high-heat oil
• Soy sauce: Adds essential salt and umami Try to use a naturally brewed soy sauce
• Sesame oil: A few drops add deep nutty aroma Use toasted sesame oil for classic fried rice flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Carrots:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat Add the chopped carrots and cook for about five minutes Stir occasionally until they begin to soften and become bright in color

Add Onions and Garlic:

Toss in the chopped onions with a pinch of salt and pepper Sauté until everything is soft and translucent about three more minutes Add the minced garlic and stir for about one minute Take care not to brown the garlic

Cook the Eggs:

Push the vegetables to the edges of the pan Drizzle about one tablespoon of oil into the center Pour in the beaten eggs Let them set for about thirty seconds then gently stir through the vegetables Cook only until just set so the eggs stay tender

Add Rice and Peas:

Add the cooked white rice to the skillet Drizzle another tablespoon of oil over the rice Stir in frozen peas Mix everything together Spread the rice over the pan and allow it to cook for two to four minutes The rice should start to get golden in places

Season and Finish:

Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil evenly over the top Sprinkle in garlic powder Add a bit of salt and pepper if needed Stir and toss everything together so the rice soaks up all the flavor Let it cook for another two minutes

Plate and Enjoy:

Remove from the heat Spoon into bowls Let it cool slightly before serving This lets all the flavors settle

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My favorite part is always the crispy golden noodles of rice that stick to the sides of the pan I remember my kids fighting over those crunchy bits whenever I made this after swim practice

Storage tips

Keep leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days It reheats beautifully on the stovetop with just a splash of water to keep it moist You can also freeze the rice in single portions if needed but fresh tastes best

Ingredient substitutions

Swap in brown rice or cooked quinoa for a different texture Feel free to use bell peppers mushrooms snap peas or almost any vegetable you have Even leftover roast chicken sliced pork or tofu can be tossed in for extra protein

Serving suggestions

Easy fried rice goes well with grilled meats roasted tofu or as a quick lunch on its own Add chili crisp or extra soy sauce at the table for a kick I sometimes put a fried egg or avocado on top for extra richness

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Cultural context

Fried rice is a classic in many Asian cultures and each family has its own special version In this American style take I add a bit more butter and veggies as my family likes a softer flavor profile than the traditional high-heat wok fried versions

Recipe FAQs

→ Why use leftover rice for fried rice?

Leftover rice is drier, preventing the grains from sticking together and helping achieve the distinct, fluffy texture essential for fried rice.

→ Can I substitute vegetables in this dish?

Yes, feel free to use bell peppers, corn, or broccoli in place of peas and carrots, depending on what you have available.

→ Is butter necessary or can oil be used?

Butter adds richness, but you can use vegetable oil entirely for a lighter, more traditional flavor.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the eggs?

Gently whisk eggs with the vegetables until just set; remove from heat promptly so they stay soft and tender.

→ What's the purpose of sesame oil and soy sauce?

Soy sauce delivers saltiness and umami, while sesame oil imparts a toasted, nutty aroma to the dish.