How to Make Vietnamese Vegetarian Stir-Fried Rice
Vietnamese Vegetarian Stir-Fried Rice is a delightful, nourishing dish that combines fragrant rice with an array of colorful vegetables and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for gatherings, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Follow these steps to create your own Vietnamese Vegetarian Stir-Fried Rice at home.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (vegetarian version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Dice the vegetables, mince the garlic, and have your sauces within reach. Using day-old rice helps prevent clumping and gives the dish a pleasant texture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. A hot pan allows the vegetables to stir-fry quickly, locking in flavor and texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the sliced onion to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring constantly to prevent burning, for an additional minute. This step builds a great flavor base for your fried rice.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced bell pepper and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are bright in color and slightly tender but still crisp. Incorporate the bean sprouts in the last minute of cooking so they stay crunchy.
Step 5: Combine with Rice
Now it’s time to add the cooked jasmine rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with a spatula and mix thoroughly with the vegetables. This step is crucial for evenly distributing all the flavors.
Step 6: Season the Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce, stirring well to coat all the rice and vegetables. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from heat. Serve the Vietnamese Vegetarian Stir-Fried Rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side. The lime adds a refreshing kick that complements the dish beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Rice
- Use cold, day-old rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- For added protein, consider including tofu or edamame.
- Experiment with spices such as chili flakes or sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy this delicious and wholesome Vietnamese Vegetarian Stir-Fried Rice as a main dish or a side. With its vibrant colors and mouth-watering flavors, it’s bound to be a hit at your table!