Fast Fried Rice with Veggies

Name: Fast Fried Rice with Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (day-old is best); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Recipes for Busy Day

I absolutely love preparing Fast Fried Rice with Veggies, especially when I'm short on time! This dish not only comes together in under 30 minutes, but it also allows me to use whatever vegetables I have on hand. The rice becomes perfectly tender and infused with so much flavor from soy sauce and sesame oil. No more boring dinners—this vibrant, colorful meal is my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner, and it's delightful enough that my family looks forward to it every time!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:22:28.277Z

I began making fried rice out of necessity—using up whatever leftover veggies were in the fridge. Over the years, I learned that the key lies in not overcrowding the pan; this allows the rice to fry rather than steam. I also discovered that adding a splash of soy sauce at the end gives it an incredible umami kick that truly elevates this dish.

Every time I whip up a batch, I think about how versatile this recipe is. You can throw in any veggies, proteins, or even a sprinkling of nuts for crunch. One evening, I used some leftover chicken, and it was a game changer! It's all about being creative with what you have.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile recipe – customize with your favorite veggies
Satisfying texture that combines crispy and tender
Delicious umami flavor that brings the dish to life

Mastering the Rice

Using day-old rice is key to achieving the best texture in your Fast Fried Rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and clumps together, making it difficult to create that desirable fried rice texture. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to help it cool and dry out a bit before using it in the recipe.

When adding the rice to the skillet, use a potato masher or the back of a spatula to gently break apart any clumps. This ensures that each grain gets coated in the flavorful sesame oil and soy sauce. Stir-frying the rice for a longer period, around 3-5 minutes, allows it to absorb the flavors and develop a pleasing, slightly crispy texture.

Veggie Variations

One of the joys of making Fast Fried Rice is its versatility with vegetables. While the recipe calls for carrots, peas, and bell peppers, you can easily substitute these with other options like broccoli, zucchini, or even leafy greens like spinach. Just remember that denser vegetables like carrots might need a little more cooking time—about 5-6 minutes—before adding the rice.

If you’re looking to enhance the flavor even further, consider adding garlic or ginger to the oil before adding the vegetables. About one clove of minced garlic or a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger can elevate the dish, providing a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with the soy sauce. Just be cautious not to burn these aromatics, as they can turn bitter if cooked too long.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Fast Fried Rice with Veggies:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (day-old is best)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting the cooking process to make it easier!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious fried rice:

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the Eggs

Add the beaten eggs to the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-fry the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until just tender.

Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Finalize the Dish

Return the eggs to the skillet, add the soy sauce, green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Fast Fried Rice with Veggies!

Pro Tips

Use day-old rice for the best texture. It helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy during cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can chop your vegetables and even scramble the eggs a day ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. That way, when it’s time to cook, everything is ready to go, making your weeknight cooking a breeze.

If you plan to make a larger batch, consider doubling the recipe and refrigerating the leftovers. Fast Fried Rice can last up to three days in the fridge, and it reheats wonderfully in a skillet with a splash of soy sauce over medium heat, allowing it to retain its texture rather than becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Fast Fried Rice with Veggies can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside your favorite protein. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal. If you want to keep it vegetarian, try adding some diced firm tofu to the skillet when stir-frying the veggies for an extra protein boost.

For a fun twist, serve the fried rice wrapped in lettuce leaves or alongside some pickled vegetables. The crunch of the lettuce and the acidity from the pickles create a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the fried rice. You can also top it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for added texture and heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh vegetables can be used! Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and cook them slightly longer.

→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Long-grain rice, like jasmine or basmati, works well for fried rice as it tends to be less sticky.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra protein and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover fried rice?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.