I love quick meals that are both delicious and satisfying. That’s why my go-to dish is the 20 Minute Fried Rice Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and veggies, and it can be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes! Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for 20 Minute Fried Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 3 cups cooked rice (day-old works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
To make sure your fried rice turns out great every time, here are some handy tips:
- Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky. Day-old rice dries out a bit, making it easier to stir-fry.
- Prep your ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and faster.
- Cook on high heat: High heat gives the rice a nice texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
How to Make 20 Minute Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. I love hearing that sizzle when I add the ingredients. It means we are on the right track!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped green onions and minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté them for about a minute until they become fragrant. The smell will fill your kitchen and is simply irresistible.
Step 3: Add Mixed Vegetables
Next, toss in your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet crisp. You can use frozen mixed veggies to save time. They are convenient and taste great in this recipe.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble them gently until they are fully cooked. This step adds protein to your fried rice, making it a complete meal.
Step 5: Mix in the Rice
Now, it’s time to add the cooked rice. Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir everything together. The rice should distribute evenly among the veggies and eggs.
Step 6: Season the Fried Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. Mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The soy sauce adds a savory flavor that makes the dish come alive.
Step 7: Cook Until Heated Through
Continue cooking the fried rice for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures everything is heated through.
Variations of Fried Rice Recipe
The beauty of fried rice is its adaptability. Here are some variations you can try:
- Chicken Fried Rice: Add diced cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Toss in cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Keep it vegetarian by adding more veggies like bell peppers and broccoli.
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Fried Rice Recipe
Once your fried rice is ready, it’s time to serve! I love garnishing it with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. You can serve it alongside your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or tofu, or enjoy it on its own.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which rarely happens in my house), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Fried rice can be enjoyed for up to three days. Just reheat it in a pan or microwave, and it will taste just as good!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect per serving of this fried rice:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Making a 20 Minute Fried Rice Recipe is not only quick but also a delightful way to use up leftovers. I love how customizable it is, allowing for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you are cooking for yourself or a group, this dish is sure to please. Give it a try, and I guarantee you will be hooked!