Vegetable Fried Rice

A Quick and Delicious One-Pan Meal

Vegetable fried rice is one of those dishes that never gets old. It’s simple, flavorful, and comes together in just minutes. Whether you need a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a way to use up leftover rice, this recipe is a lifesaver. Plus, it’s packed with colorful veggies, making it both tasty and nutritious.

I love making this dish because it’s so easy. On busy weeknights, when I don’t have time for complicated meals, vegetable fried rice is my go-to. It’s also a great option when I have leftover rice in the fridge—it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in no time. If you enjoy homemade takeout-style dishes, this recipe is a must-try!

What makes this vegetable fried rice special is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, add protein like tofu or shrimp, and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

It’s budget-friendly, great for meal prep, and a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet. Even picky eaters will enjoy the delicious mix of flavors and textures!

About Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable fried rice is a classic Asian-inspired dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with vegetables, seasonings, and sometimes protein. It’s a staple in many households because it’s quick, satisfying, and easy to customize. Unlike plain steamed rice, fried rice has a delicious smoky flavor from being cooked in a hot pan with oil and seasonings.

What sets vegetable fried rice apart from other rice dishes is its simplicity and adaptability. While traditional fried rice often includes eggs or meat, this version focuses on fresh, vibrant vegetables. It’s lighter than meaty fried rice options but still just as flavorful. Plus, you can make it healthier by using brown rice or adding extra veggies.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
2. Customizable – Use any veggies you have on hand or add protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
3. Great for Leftovers – Works best with day-old rice, so it’s a great way to repurpose leftovers.
4. Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with colorful vegetables, fiber, and essential vitamins.
5. Tastes Like Takeout – Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without the extra cost or oil.

Ingredients

• Rice:
  • 3 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old, white or brown)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • ½ cup corn (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Aromatics & Seasonings:
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced (optional but adds great flavor)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or more to taste)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (for extra flavor)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust as needed)
• Other:
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional, for added protein)

Ingredient Notes

• Rice Matters! Using cold, day-old rice prevents it from becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice can be too soft, so if you don’t have leftovers, spread warm rice on a tray and let it cool in the fridge for 30 minutes.
• Soy Sauce Choices: I like using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, but you can also mix in a little oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for extra depth.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini work great, too.
• Sesame Oil Tip: Add sesame oil at the end to preserve its rich, nutty flavor. Adding it too early can make it lose its aroma.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Wok or Large Skillet – A wok is best for even heat distribution and that classic fried rice texture, but a large nonstick pan works too.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Essential for stirring and preventing rice from sticking to the pan. I love using a silicone spatula because it’s gentle on my nonstick pan!
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For chopping vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Small Bowl & Fork – If adding eggs, whisk them in a small bowl before cooking.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – Helps get the right balance of soy sauce, oil, and seasonings.

If you cook stir-fries often, I highly recommend investing in a carbon steel wok—it heats up fast and gives the best results!

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients (5 minutes)

• Chop all your vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger. If using eggs, beat them in a small bowl. Having everything ready makes cooking super quick!

2. Heat the Pan & Cook the Eggs (2 minutes)

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until just cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the eggs! They should be soft and slightly runny since they’ll cook a bit more when mixed into the rice later.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables (3-4 minutes)

• In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the carrots, peas, bell peppers, and corn. Stir-fry for 3 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender but still crisp.

4. Add the Rice & Seasonings (3-4 minutes)

• Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan and break up any clumps with a spatula.
• Pour in soy sauce, black pepper, and salt, then stir everything well to coat the rice evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the rice absorb the flavors.
• Pro Tip: Press the rice down gently with your spatula and let it sit for 30 seconds before stirring. This helps create those slightly crispy bits that make fried rice so delicious!

5. Mix in the Eggs & Finish with Sesame Oil (1-2 minutes)

• Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir to combine.Drizzle in the sesame oil and give everything one last good mix.

6. Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness.
• Serve hot and enjoy your homemade vegetable fried rice!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – If you’re making a big batch, cook in smaller portions. Too much rice in the pan can make it steam instead of fry, which affects the texture.
• High Heat is Key – Cooking on medium-high to high heat gives fried rice that signature smoky flavor (also called “wok hei” in Chinese cooking). Just keep stirring to prevent burning!
• Add Sauce Gradually – Start with less soy sauce, then add more if needed. Too much at once can make the rice soggy.
• Taste and Adjust – Before serving, always give it a quick taste! Need more flavor? Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of salt. Want some heat? A dash of sriracha or chili flakes does the trick.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Rice Choices – Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa work well for a different texture and added nutrition.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives – Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a milder, slightly sweet taste.
• Protein Additions – Add tofu, shrimp, chicken, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. Just cook them first before adding the veggies.
• Extra Flavor Boosters – A drizzle of hoisin sauce adds sweetness, while a splash of rice vinegar brightens up the flavors.
• Spicy Version – If you love heat, add chili oil, sriracha, or diced Thai chilies for a fiery kick!

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish – This vegetable fried rice is filling on its own, especially when topped with a fried egg or served with tofu for extra protein.
• With a Side of Dumplings – Pair it with vegetable or chicken dumplings for a delicious takeout-style meal at home.
• Alongside a Stir-Fry – Serve it with a stir-fry like garlic butter shrimp or honey soy chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.
• With a Bowl of Soup – A warm bowl of egg drop soup or hot and sour soup goes perfectly with fried rice.
• Wrapped in Lettuce Cups – For a fun twist, scoop fried rice into lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy contrast!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If making a big batch, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating on the Stove: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or a little oil, and stir-fry until heated through.
• Microwave Method: Place the rice in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a little water (this prevents dryness), cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Pro Tip: If the rice feels dry after reheating, add a tiny bit of soy sauce or sesame oil to bring back the flavor and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

Yes, but it’s best to let it cool first! Spread it out on a tray and pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent mushy fried rice.

What’s the best oil to use for fried rice?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best since they have a high smoke point. Sesame oil is great for flavor, but it’s best added at the end!

Can I make this fried rice without soy sauce?

Absolutely! Try tamari (for a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos (for a slightly sweeter taste). You can also season with a pinch of salt and a dash of rice vinegar for balance.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes, sriracha, or diced Thai chilies while cooking. A drizzle of chili oil at the end also adds a delicious heat!

Can I add more protein to this recipe?

Definitely! Try scrambled eggs, tofu, shrimp, or shredded chicken. Just cook the protein first before adding the veggies.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being too salty?

Start with less soy sauce and add more if needed. If it gets too salty, mix in extra rice or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.

I’d love to hear how this vegetable fried rice turns out for you! Did you add any fun twists or extra veggies? Let me know in the comments! If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with a friend or save it for later. Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!