Fried rice recipe is designed for quick cooking, but it can feel tricky if there are multiple ingredients to put together. That’s when you make this five-ingredient leftover fried rice. As the name suggests, the dish only uses five ingredients: leftover rice (preferably a day old), eggs, chopped vegetables (you can use a mix of frozen vegetables like peas and corn, or keep the variety limited if chopping fresh), soy sauce, and oil. Each ingredient plays a special role, imparting just the right crunch and flavour to the dish!
This fried rice recipe is highly customisable. You can skip the egg for a vegetarian version, add more vegetables to the mix (like finely diced green beans, bell peppers, chopped, broccoli, cabbage, or bean sprouts), or flavour it with a hint of chilli oil for a spicy and smoky finish. Most changes won’t significantly alter the cooking time, but may require additional prep time.
The next time you are in the mood for a quick lunch, or want to raid your fridge for a sustainable and satiating meal, try this five-ingredient leftover fried rice recipe. Day-old, cold rice works best for fried rice as it is drier and prevents clumping, resulting in separate, well-coated grains when stir-fried on high heat. This is also a good dish to try for novice cooks because it does not need any complicated cooking techniques or extensive cooking steps. So, try this dish because there are few things as comforting as a low-effort, high-reward meal.
If using frozen vegetables, let them thaw. Else, dice the carrots and measure the peas and corn. Lastly, the rice should be cold and separated. Also, heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
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Step 2: Add the veggies
Add the veggies and sauté until tender (2-3 minutes). The vegetables should retain a little crunch. Now, push the veggies to one side.
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Step 3: Scramble the eggs
Add a little extra oil if needed, and scramble the eggs. To scramble, crack in the beaten eggs and let them sit for 5–10 seconds, then stir gently to scramble into soft curds before mixing with the vegetables.
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Step 4: Add the rice and season
Add the cold rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Toss and press the rice on high heat for 2–3 minutes until heated through and the grains are separated. Add the soy sauce, mixing well until evenly coated. Stir-fry for another 1 minute until lightly browned, then turn off the heat and serve hot.
Yes, you can make this fried rice vegetarian by skipping eggs or replacing them with tofu or paneer while keeping the vegetables, rice, soy sauce, and oil unchanged.
To increase protein in the fried rice recipe, add extra eggs, tofu, paneer, or cooked chicken. You can also include edamame or beans without significantly changing the flavour or cooking method.
Yes, but spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and cool it completely before using. Slightly dried rice helps achieve the right texture and prevents mushiness.
Fried rice becomes soggy if the rice is too fresh, overcrowded in the pan, or cooked on low heat. Always use high heat and avoid adding excess sauce.