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Fried rice is a delightful dish that turns leftover rice into a satisfying, one-bowl meal. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s all about the balance of flavors—salty, nutty, and just a hint of sweetness. This Vibrant Sesame-Garlic Fried Rice recipe brings together crisp vegetables, fragrant garlic, and a bright sesame aroma for a plateful of comfort that’s both simple and scrumptious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups day-old cooked rice, preferably chilled
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or any cooking oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers), chopped
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
Warm the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, letting its aroma bloom without browning.
Toss in your chopped vegetables and sauté them until they’re bright and just tender. Slide them to one side of the pan, then pour in the beaten eggs, gently scrambling them until they’re fully cooked.
Add the chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula or spoon. Sprinkle in the soy sauce and gently fold everything together, ensuring each grain of rice gets a little sauce. If you’d like to add some heat, this is the moment to stir in the chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the rice is heated through and lightly toasted.
Finish by stirring in the optional grated ginger for added zest, then give one last taste to see if you’d like more soy sauce or spice. Serve your fried rice piping hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp touch.
The beauty of this recipe is how it turns basic ingredients into something comforting and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a reliable, worry-free meal, and it easily adapts to dietary needs: use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium or gluten-free option, or add your favorite protein—from tofu to chicken breast—for extra oomph. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this fried rice is sure to become a weeknight staple in your home.
