Simple Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables (Better Than Takeout)
Craving Chinese restaurant-style egg fried rice? This easy recipe with fresh vegetables is even better than your favorite takeout joint. You can skip the delivery and make your superior version of this classic fried rice recipe at home.
Are you tired of ordering takeout whenever you crave a delicious plate of egg-fried rice with vegetables? In this article, I will show you how to make an incredibly simple yet flavorful version of this popular dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a homemade version that is better than takeout and customizable to suit your taste preferences ☺️.
Why You’ll Love This Fried Egg Recipe
Egg-fried rice is a popular dish that originated in Chinese cuisine and is now enjoyed in various parts of the world. It has become a staple in many Asian countries and has evolved to include regional variations.
While there might be slight differences in preparation and ingredients across cultures, the essence of the dish remains consistent. Traditionally, egg fried rice is made using cold, leftover cooked rice, which helps prevent it from becoming mushy during the cooking process. The dish typically includes eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood.
- You’ll like this fried rice because it is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients (which you probably already have in your pantry), making it a perfect choice for a quick and hassle-free meal 😎. Just imagine the nights when you come home from work tired and decide to save money and not order takeout; this recipe is a perfect choice.
- This recipe is also budget-friendly, as the ingredients are generally affordable and readily available.
- Fried rice is a perfect balanced meal providing a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and nutrients. Exactly what you need if you decide to follow a healthy diet. If you need help starting a healthy lifestyle routine, my post How to Plan to Start Eating a Healthier Diet (3-day Healthy Meal Plan) is a great start!
- This recipe is kid-friendly (at least in my house, it is!). Children often enjoy the mild flavors and familiar ingredients found in egg-fried rice, making it a hit with families.
- This dish is incredibly versatile. You can quickly adapt it to suit your taste preferences by adding various vegetables, proteins, or spices to make it uniquely yours. For instance, my son is allergic to green peas, so I make it without them so he can eat the rice, and I add green peas to the dish later for the rest of us.
Should You Use White Rice or Brown Rice?
White rice and brown rice are two common rice variations that differ in processing, nutritional content, and flavor. Here’s a comparison between the two:
- White rice is processed to remove the outer husk, bran, and germ layers, leaving only the endosperm. This process removes most of the vitamins, minerals, and fiber present in the original grain. Brown rice is less processed and retains its bran and germ layers, which are rich in nutrients and fiber.
- While white rice is a good source of carbohydrates, it lacks many essential nutrients due to the removal of the bran and germ layers. It is low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Brown rice is a whole grain and contains higher amounts of fiber, vitamins (B vitamins), minerals (such as magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium), and antioxidants than white rice. It is considered a healthier option due to its richer nutrient profile.
- White rice is low in fiber, which means it is quickly digested and can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Brown rice has a higher fiber content, which slows down digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes better digestive health.
- White rice has a higher glycemic index (GI), which raises blood sugar levels more quickly after consumption. Brown rice has a lower GI, leading to slower and more stable increases in blood sugar levels.
In summary, while white rice is a staple in many cultures and has a milder taste, brown rice is a healthier choice due to its higher nutritional content, fiber, and lower glycemic index. Incorporating brown rice into your diet can provide additional health benefits and improve overall nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Egg-Fried Rice
- 2 cups rice – you can use Jasmine rice, Basmati rice, or long grain rice. I never tried making it with short grain rice, so I can’t comment on the final result. You can choose either white or brown rice; adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – I prefer olive oil, but you can use vegetable oil, sesame oil, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil you choose.
- 1-2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables – I used carrots and green onions in this recipe, but you can add any other vegetable you choose (green peas and corn being the common ones in Chinese fried rice).
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust according to taste and add extra soy sauce if preferred) – I use reduced-sodium soy sauce from Whole Foods.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make the Best Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely. Chilled rice works best for fried rice as it doesn’t clump together. It is best to use day-old rice, so you should plan accordingly. If you are cooking the rice before making this fried rice, when rice is cooked, fluff it with the fork and add one tbs butter. Let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to chill.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the vegetables into small pieces for even cooking.
Step 3: Scramble the eggs
You have two options here. You can add oil in a separate pan, scramble the eggs and set them aside. Or, in a large skillet or large wok where you’ll be making fried rice, heat the oil over medium heat, pour the beaten eggs into the hot pan, and scramble them until they are fully cooked but still slightly moist. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the vegetables
Add the chopped vegetables to the non-stick pan or wok and stir-fry until they become tender-crisp. Start with the carrots and cook for several minutes, then add onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, then add green onions at the end. Add salt and black pepper for seasoning, and add minced garlic. Another option to scramble the eggs is to create a space in the center of the pan by pushing the vegetables to the sides. Pour the beaten eggs into the center of the pan and let them cook for a moment until they start to set. Once the eggs solidify, gently scramble them with a wooden spoon.
Step 5: If you scrambled eggs in step 3, add them to the cooked veggies and give it a good stir.
Step 6: Mix everything together
Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan, breaking up rice clumps. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the eggs and vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the rice.
Step 7: Season and Flavour
Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and continue tossing to coat the rice evenly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Some people like adding oyster sauce to the fried rice, so feel free to add it here. I typically don’t add it to mine.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Once the rice is heated through and evenly seasoned, remove it from the heat, and serve immediately. You can garnish the dish with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati, as they tend to have a firmer texture and are less likely to become mushy when cooked. Before cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Use the right amount of water to cook the rice (this will be different for white and brown rice). Follow the instructions on your rice package or rice cooker for the best results. When rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork, add 1 tbsp of butter, and mix well. For fried rice, it’s best to use cooled rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky. Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet or large plate and let it chill in the refrigerator. Using a wok or large skillet with high sides allows you to stir-fry the rice and other ingredients effectively without spilling them over the edge. Use soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other seasonings to flavor the fried rice. Be mindful of the salt content, especially if your soy sauce is already salty. I typically use reduced-sodium soy sauce.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to give the fried rice a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference. A slight drizzle of sesame oil can impart a wonderful nutty aroma to the fried rice. Be careful not to use too much, as the flavor can be overpowering. Chopped green onions (scallions) add color and provide a fresh and mild onion flavor to the fried rice. Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the rice for an extra touch of heat and a slightly smoky flavor. Always remember that the saltiness level may increase with some of these additions, so consider reducing the amount of additional salt in the recipe.
In conclusion, Simple Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that surpasses the taste of takeout options. By using simple ingredients and following a few steps, anyone can create a flavorful and nutritious meal in the comfort of their kitchen. Not only does this recipe allow for customization with various vegetables and protein options, but it also provides a healthier alternative to greasy and sodium-laden takeout versions.
So why settle for mediocre when you can whip up a better-than-takeout egg fried rice that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body? Try this recipe and experience the satisfaction of creating an authentic Asian-inspired dish right at home. You can enjoy it as a complete meal or a delicious side dish.
If you end up with some leftover rice from the day before, don’t throw it away! Prepare your favorite mix-ins of veggies, add a little bit of oil, scramble eggs, and give it a very quick stir fry. Season with your favorite sauce and enjoy the best-fried rice, just like Chinese restaurant style!
If you like this recipe, here are some other great options to try:
- Quick Steamed Broccoletti with Garlic (Broccolini or Baby Broccoli)
- Easy Baked Cod with Fried Rice
- Salmon Rice Bowl with Roasted Pepper Aioli Sauce
- Easy and Delicious Mediterranean Rice Recipe
- Simple Stir-Fry Broccoli without Meat
- Lemon Butter Chicken Risotto in a Dutch Oven
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice uncooked
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 2 eggs
- 1 carrots large, chopped
- 1 green onion chopped
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce reduced-sodium
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking it according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely. Chilled rice works best for fried rice as it doesn’t clump together. It is best to use day-old rice, so you should plan accordingly. If you are cooking the rice before making this fried rice, when rice is cooked, fluff it with the fork and add one tbs butter. Let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to chill.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the vegetables into small pieces for even cooking.
- Scramble the eggs: You have two options here. You can add oil in a separate pan, scramble the eggs and set them aside. Or, in a large skillet or large wok where you’ll be making fried rice, heat the oil over medium heat, pour the beaten eggs into the hot pan, and scramble them until they are fully cooked but still slightly moist. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped vegetables to the non-stick pan or wok and stir-fry until they become tender-crisp. Start with the carrots and cook for several minutes, then add onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, then add green onions at the end. Add salt and black pepper for seasoning, and add minced garlic. Another option to scramble the eggs is to create a space in the center of the pan by pushing the vegetables to the sides. Pour the beaten eggs into the center of the pan and let them cook for a moment until they start to set. Once the eggs solidify, gently scramble them with a wooden spoon.
- If you scrambled eggs in step 3, add them to the cooked veggies and give it a good stir.
- Mix everything together: Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan, breaking up rice clumps. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the eggs and vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the rice.
- Season and Flavour: Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and continue tossing to coat the rice evenly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Some people like adding oyster sauce to the fried rice, so feel free to add it here. I typically don’t add it to mine.
- Serve Hot: Once the rice is heated through and evenly seasoned, remove it from the heat, and serve immediately. You can garnish the dish with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Video
Notes
- The nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Rice – you can use Jasmine rice, Basmati rice, or long grain rice. I never tried making it with short grain rice, so I can’t comment on the final result. You can choose either white or brown rice; adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- Olive oil – I prefer olive oil, but you can use vegetable oil, sesame oil, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil you choose.
- Mixed vegetables – I used carrots and green onions in this recipe, but you can add any other vegetable you choose (green peas and corn being the common ones in Chinese fried rice).
- Soy sauce (adjust according to taste and add extra soy sauce if preferred) – I use reduced-sodium soy sauce from Whole Foods.
