Before diving into the deliciousness of fried brown rice, let’s talk about what could accompany this dish. You want to make your meal an experience and pair it with some scrumptious options.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers, kissed by the grill, can bring a smoky flavor that fabulously complements brown rice.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Load up your plate with colorful stir-fried veggies. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add not just nutrition but a visual feast.
Egg Rolls: Crunchy, savory egg rolls bring a satisfying texture. Pineapple or sweet chili dipping sauce provides a punch of flavor to the ensemble.
You’ll Also Like These Recipes
- Tuna Egg Salad Recipe
- Bisteces a la Mexicana: A Mexican Beef Stew Recipe
- White Bean Turkey Chili Recipe
Welcome to the delightful world of fried brown rice! This dish is truly a kitchen superhero. It’s quick, versatile, and a surefire way to make meal planning easier. Just imagine sitting down to a bowl of steaming brown rice, stirred up with veggies and protein that tickle your taste buds.
Having cooked this dish countless times, I can say it sparks joy—not to mention it’s a great way to use leftovers. There’s something special about the sizzle when the rice hits the hot pan. The crackling of garlic, the color of fresh veggies, and the enticing aroma make it hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a gathering, fried brown rice allows you to experiment while keeping it simple.
What is Fried Brown Rice?
Fried brown rice is a stir-fry dish typically made with cooked brown rice, assorted vegetables, and protein. It’s usually seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and some aromatic spices. This nutritious twist on traditional fried rice embraces the nutty flavor of brown rice while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
When I set out to create a recipe for fried brown rice, I focused on a few critical elements that make it special.
Flavor-Packed: Brown rice has a rich, nutty taste. Adding layers of flavor through garlic and ginger only amplifies its appeal.
Nutrient Diverse: Incorporating a variety of vegetables makes this dish not just hearty but also packed with essential nutrients. Think vitamins and fiber all in one bowl.
Quick and Easy: In a pinch? Fried rice cooks up quickly, especially if you have leftover rice. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Customization: You can adapt it to your liking. Add whatever protein you have on hand—chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even eggs. The possibilities are endless.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To whip up a delightful bowl of fried brown rice, gather the following ingredients:
2 large eggs, beaten
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 medium green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon neutral vegetable oil, divided
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots (use directly from the freezer)
4 cups cold cooked brown or white rice, preferably medium-grain
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more if needed
¾ teaspoon ground white pepper, plus more if needed
¾ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
How to Make This Fried Brown Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the green onions, mince the garlic cloves, and grate the ginger. This easy prep work will make cooking much smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the beaten eggs. Scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil. Toss in minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant. Next, add the green onions and frozen peas with carrots. Stir it all together for about 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Now, it’s time to put the spotlight on the rice. Add the cold, cooked brown rice to the skillet. Stir it into the vegetable mix. Break up any clumps as you go.
Step 5: Flavor It Up
Incorporate the soy sauce, salt, ground white pepper, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Keep stirring everything together until all ingredients are combined and heated through.
Step 6: Finish It Off
Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Toss everything together for another minute or two. Serve it fresh from the pan for that piping hot comfort.
Tips & Tricks
Use Cold Rice: Freshly made rice can get mushy. Day-old rice works best because it’s drier.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. It helps maintain a good texture and prevents steaming.
Taste As You Go: This allows for adjustments to your seasoning.
Experiment with Proteins: Toss shrimp, chicken, or tofu into the mix to build on flavors.
Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh cilantro on top adds a beautiful touch and elevates the dish.
Nutrition Information
Fried brown rice is a well-rounded meal. Here’s a basic breakdown per serving:
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
If you find yourself with leftovers—or just want to prep in advance—you can easily store them. Place the fried brown rice in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to three days. To reheat, simply toss it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. You can also add a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back moisture.
What Sides Would Complement Fried Brown Rice?
Think about completing your meal with these side options:
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is light and comforting, adding a lovely umami flavor that pairs well with the rice.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a crunch that’s delightful alongside your dish. Filled with veggies or prawns, they enhance the overall dining experience.
Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, sesame dressing, and crispy vegetables brings a nice contrast to the warm rice.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Don’t fret if you find yourself missing an ingredient or two. Here are some alternatives:
Eggs: Try using tofu or chickpea flour for a vegan option.
Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos can substitute for soy sauce, especially for a soy-free option.
Brown Rice: If you’re out of brown rice, white rice or quinoa works well, though they have different textures and tastes.
Frozen Vegetables: Fresh vegetables can be diced and used in place of frozen ones. You may want to increase cooking time slightly to soften them.
Fried Brown Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan, non-stick frying pan
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 medium green onions
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon neutral vegetable oil
- 1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots
- 4 cups cold cooked brown or white rice
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ¾ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the green onions, mince the garlic cloves, and grate the ginger. This easy prep work will make cooking much smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the beaten eggs. Scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil. Toss in minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant. Next, add the green onions and frozen peas with carrots. Stir it all together for about 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Add the Rice
- Now, it’s time to put the spotlight on the rice. Add the cold, cooked brown rice to the skillet. Stir it into the vegetable mix. Break up any clumps as you go.
Step 5: Flavor It Up
- Incorporate the soy sauce, salt, ground white pepper, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Keep stirring everything together until all ingredients are combined and heated through.
Step 6: Finish It Off
- Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Toss everything together for another minute or two. Serve it fresh from the pan for that piping hot comfort.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover rice for fried brown rice?
Absolutely! In fact, leftover rice is often the best choice for fried rice recipes. It tends to be drier, which prevents clumping.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, which are gluten-free alternatives. Just make sure to select a gluten-free rice.
3. Is fried brown rice healthy?
Yes! Utilizing brown rice increases the fiber content and nutritional benefits. You’ll enjoy a meal rich in protein and vegetables that supports a balanced diet.
4. Can I freeze fried brown rice?
Certainly! Divide into portions and freeze in airtight containers. When you’re ready, reheat while defrosting in the microwave or on the stovetop.
5. Can I add more protein?
For sure! Adding any cooked proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu can enhance the dish and make it heartier.
6. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment. Bell peppers, bok choy, and mushrooms can also complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Fried brown rice isn’t just a meal; it’s a canvas. You can throw in whatever tickles your fancy. The flexibility it offers engrains it firmly in my recipe rotation. From easy weeknight dinners to hosting friends, this dish steps up to the occasion with flavor and nutrition. So fire up that skillet and let the colors dance! Your taste buds will thank you.
