Save Bring the vibrant colors of spring to your table with this Veggie-Packed Fried Rice. Brimming with fresh peas, sweet carrots, and crisp red bell peppers, this Asian-inspired dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you're looking for a quick main course or a hearty side dish, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity, making it a perfect healthy choice for any day of the week.
Save This fried rice is a fantastic way to utilize seasonal produce while creating a meal that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of aromatic ginger and garlic, combined with the savory notes of soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile that rivals any takeout.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice (preferably day-old, cold)
- 1 cup spring peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (omit for vegan version)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Prepare all vegetables and aromatics. Have rice ready and chilled.
- Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add carrots and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 3: Add Aromatics
- Add garlic, ginger, and spring peas (and corn, if using). Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Scramble Eggs
- Push vegetables to the side of the pan. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just set, then mix with the vegetables. (Skip this step for vegan.)
- Step 5: Add Rice
- Add rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and toss well with vegetables and egg.
- Step 6: Season and Fry
- Drizzle in soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Season with black pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly coated.
- Step 7: Final Garnish
- Remove from heat, stir in green onions, and serve hot. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using leftover rice is crucial for the best texture; freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture and can become mushy. If you must use fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and air-dry it for a few hours or refrigerate it uncovered before cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra protein, you can add cubed tofu or tempeh—just sauté them before adding the rice to the pan. To make this dish strictly vegan, omit the eggs or substitute them with a seasoned tofu scramble. You can also swap in other seasonal vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas depending on what you have on hand.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this veggie-packed fried rice hot, straight from the wok. It looks beautiful when garnished with an extra sprinkle of fresh green onions and a drizzle of sriracha for those who like a bit of heat. It pairs exceptionally well with a simple side of steamed greens or as a base for grilled proteins.
Save With its balance of fresh vegetables and savory seasonings, this Veggie-Packed Fried Rice with Spring Peas and Carrots is a reliable and delicious staple for any home cook looking for a healthy, easy-to-make Asian-inspired meal.
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
Using day-old, chilled rice is best for stir-frying as it prevents clumping and excess moisture. Fresh rice can work but may result in a softer, less textured dish.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for added protein and a similar texture.
- → What vegetables can I substitute or add?
Feel free to swap or add seasonal vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- → Which oils work best for stir-frying?
Vegetable oils with high smoke points such as canola, peanut, or toasted sesame oil work well for stir-frying and infuse great flavor.
- → How can I increase the protein content?
Add cubed tofu or tempeh, sautéed beforehand, to boost the protein level while keeping the dish vegetarian or vegan.