Classic Tomato Pasta
25 minEasy
Vegetable Fried Rice
Day-old rice, crisp vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce tossed in a screaming-hot wok. The ultimate clean-out-the-fridge dinner.
- Prep time10 min
- Cook time10 min
- Total time20 min
- Servings4
- DifficultyEasy
- Calories450 kcal
Method
Instructions
- 1
Prep the rice
2 minIf your rice is clumped, break it up with your hands so it fries evenly. Day-old, cold rice is ideal.
Tip: Fresh rice turns mushy — spread freshly cooked rice on a tray to cool if you have no leftovers.
- 2
Scramble the eggs
1 minHeat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok over high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs, let them set for a few seconds, then scramble and push to one side.
- 3
Stir-fry the aromatics
2 minAdd another tablespoon of oil with the scallion whites and carrot, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the peas and cook 30 seconds more.
- 4
Fry the rice
4 minAdd the remaining oil and the rice. Toss constantly, breaking up clumps, until the rice is hot and every grain is coated, 3–4 minutes. The rice should sizzle, not steam.
Tip: A hot wok and constant tossing are the secret — this is what gives fried rice its wok hei.
- 5
Season and finish
1 minPour the soy sauce and sesame oil around the edges of the wok. Toss to combine, taste, and season with salt or white pepper. Fold in the scallion greens and serve.
Cook smarter
Cooking Tips
- Cold, day-old rice is non-negotiable for the right texture.
- Season from the edges — pouring soy sauce into the hot wok gives it a toasted depth.
- Add any leftover protein: shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu all work.
Make it yours
Ingredient Substitutions
No rice?
- Cauliflower rice
- Quinoa
Cauliflower rice needs only 2–3 minutes in the wok.
No frozen peas?
- Edamame
- Corn
- Broccoli florets
No soy sauce?
- Tamari
- Coconut aminos
Leftovers
Storage & Reheating
How to store
Store in an airtight container.
How long it keeps
Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to reheat
Reheat in a very hot wok or skillet with a splash of oil, or microwave with a damp paper towel.
Can you freeze it?
Freezes for up to 2 months — reheat in a hot pan straight from frozen.
Build the plate
Serving Suggestions
- A fried egg on top
- Chili crisp
- Pickled vegetables
- Steamed greens
Good to know
Common Questions
Why does my fried rice turn out mushy?
Almost always because the rice is too fresh or too wet. Use cold, day-old rice and make sure the wok is very hot.
Can I add meat?
Yes — leftover chicken, pork, or shrimp are classic. Stir-fry them first, set aside, then add back at the end.
Do I need a wok?
No — a large skillet over the highest heat works. The key is heat and not overcrowding.
Keep cooking
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