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Easy Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe
Chinese · Lunch

Easy Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe

Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick and delicious Chinese dish made with stir-fried rice, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings. This easy recipe is perfect for a simple and satisfying lunch using leftover rice.

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Serves
3
Difficulty
Easy

Method

1

Rice Prep

Begin by preparing all the vegetables and ensuring the cooked rice is separated and not clumped together, as using cold, day-old rice gives the best texture for fried rice.
2

Garlic Sizzle

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until it becomes fragrant without burning.
3

Veggie Stir-Fry

Add the diced carrots, green peas, and chopped bell peppers into the pan, then stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender yet still crisp.

Stir-frying colorful vegetables for fried rice in a traditional wok
4

Incorporate Rice

Add the cooked rice into the pan, breaking up any lumps gently while mixing it with the vegetables to ensure even distribution.

Authentic Chinese fried rice being tossed in a professional kitchen setting
5

Seasoning Burst

Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle sesame oil over the rice, then stir thoroughly so that every grain is coated with the seasoning.
6

Heat Distribution

Continue stir-frying for several minutes, allowing the rice to heat evenly and develop a light, slightly crispy texture.
7

Taste Balance

Add salt and black pepper according to taste, then mix well to balance the flavors.
8

Final Garnish

Finally, add chopped green onions and give the rice one last gentle toss before removing it from heat.
9

Serving Warm

Serve the vegetable fried rice hot as a complete meal or as a side dish, enjoying its simple yet flavorful taste.

A steaming bowl of Chinese vegetable fried rice served with traditional chopsticks

Cook’s tips

  • Using cold, day-old rice is the secret to non-mushy fried rice grains.
  • Maintain high heat throughout the process to get that "wok hei" (breath of the wok) flavor.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, bok choy, or small cubes of tofu for more variety.

Recipe notes

Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick and delicious Chinese dish made with stir-fried rice, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings. This easy recipe is perfect for a simple and satisfying lunch using leftover rice.

Looking for more Asian lunch wonders? Try our Authentic Pad Thai Masterclass or roll up some fun with our Spiced Chicken Shawarma Wrap for a satisfying midday break!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use fresh rice?

You can, but it is best to spread it out on a tray and chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours before cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

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