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Vibrant Vegetarian Fried Rice – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Vibrant Vegetarian Fried Rice

Forget takeout! This vibrant, flavor-packed vegetarian fried rice is the best way to transform leftover rice and veggies into a spectacular meal in just 20 minutes. The secret is cooking each component separately to build layers of flavor and texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6 serving
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (150 g / 5.3 oz) fresh or frozen peas
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml) peanut or neutral oil (like grapeseed)
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, cored, seeded, and roughly chopped
  • 1½ cups / 12 oz / 340g cubed firm tofu
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) / 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) minced fresh ginger
  • 3 to 4 cups (960 ml) cooked and chilled white or brown rice (preferably basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional, omit for vegan)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml / 2 fl oz) Shaoxing wine, sherry, or vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) dark sesame oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup (15 g / 0.53 oz) minced scallion or fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • for Perfect Fried Rice
  • Use Day-Old, Cold Rice: This is the number one rule! Chilled, leftover rice is drier and firmer, which prevents it from getting mushy and helps the grains separate for that perfect restaurant-style texture.
  • High Heat is Your Friend: A screaming hot wok or skillet is essential. High heat quickly sears the , creating a delicious 'wok hei' (smoky flavor) and preventing the vegetables from steaming in their own moisture.
  • Get Creative with Variations: This recipe is a fantastic base. Try adding a teaspoon of Thai red curry paste with the garlic for a spicy kick, a cup of chopped pineapple for a sweet and savory twist, or even 2 cups (480 ml) of thinly sliced romaine lettuce at the very end for a surprising, delicious crunch.

Method
 

  1. Prep Your : If using frozen peas, place them in a bowl of cold water to defrost.
  2. Pat your cubed tofu dry to ensure it gets a crispy sear.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Place a wok or large, nonstick skillet over high heat.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of oil.
  5. Once shimmering, add the onion and bell pepper.
  6. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes until they soften and start to brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a separate bowl.
  7. Brown the Tofu: Add another tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet.
  8. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook over high heat, stirring only occasionally, until golden brown and crisp on all sides, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  9. Add the tofu to the bowl with the vegetables.
  10. Flash-Cook the Peas: Drain the peas and add them to the hot skillet.
  11. Cook, shaking the pan, for about 1 minute until they are bright green and heated through.
  12. Transfer them to the bowl with the other .
  13. Build the Flavor Base: Add the final tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
  14. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant—don't let them burn!
  15. Fry the Rice: Add the chilled rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps and toss it continuously with the aromatics until every grain is coated and heated through.
  16. Add the Egg (Optional): Push the rice to the sides of the skillet to create a well in the center.
  17. Pour the beaten eggs into the well. Scramble them until just set, then break them up and mix them into the rice.
  18. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked vegetables and tofu to the skillet.
  19. Add the Shaoxing wine (or stock) and stir everything together for about a minute.
  20. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, then toss to combine.
  21. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
  22. Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat, stir in the fresh scallions or cilantro, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 18g

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