Nothing beats the simple joy of a warm, hearty bowl of Extra Vegetable Fried Rice packed with color, texture, and flavor. This dish is a celebration of fresh veggies and wholesome brown rice, stir-fried to perfection with aromatic garlic, ginger, and that perfect hint of heat. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for friends, this Extra Vegetable Fried Rice recipe delivers that satisfying comfort with a boost of nutrients and vibrant taste. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a rainbow of vegetables in every bite and feel good about what you’re eating.

Extra Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on fresh, simple ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. Every element adds texture, flavor, or color, making the final dish deliciously balanced and visually appealing.

Avocado or safflower oil: Using these oils adds a healthy, mild base for stir-frying without overpowering the other flavors.
Eggs: Scrambled and folded in for richness and a lovely soft protein element.
White onion: Adds sweetness and depth once cooked.
Carrots: Brings a natural sweetness and a bright orange hue to the mix.
Additional veggies (snow peas, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, bell pepper, peas): These provide a crunchy, colorful medley that elevates the dish’s freshness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
Fresh ginger: Offers a lively, zesty kick that’s essential for that authentic flair.
Garlic: Adds unmistakable aroma and savory depth.
Red pepper flakes: Bring just a touch of heat to brighten the dish without overwhelming.
Cooked brown rice: The wholesome, nutty base of this recipe that holds everything together.
Greens (spinach, baby kale, tatsoi): Optional, but a beautiful way to sneak in extra vitamins and brighten the color.
Green onions: They add a fresh, slightly sharp note that complements the other ingredients.
Reduced-sodium tamari or soy sauce: Provides umami and seasoning with a depth that ties all elements together.
Toasted sesame oil: This finishing touch imparts a slightly nutty aroma that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Chili-garlic sauce or sriracha: Optional for those who love a little spicy kick with their rice.

How to Make Extra Vegetable Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep and Heat Your Pan

Before diving in, make sure your ingredients are chopped, cooked rice is ready, and your workspace is organized because this recipe moves fast once the heat is on. Start warming a large skillet over medium-high heat until water droplets sizzle and evaporate quickly; this ensures the perfect temperature to create that signature slightly toasted rice texture.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Add a small amount of oil to the hot pan and pour in the whisked eggs. Swirl them around so they cook evenly into soft, lightly set scrambled eggs. This step is key because those tender eggs add wonderful richness and a lovely contrast to the crisp veggies later on. Once cooked, set the eggs aside in a bowl and wipe the pan clean to prepare for the next steps.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Carrots

Return the pan to the heat, add more oil, then toss in the finely chopped onion and carrots. Stir often as they soften and the onion turns translucent, releasing its sweetness. This forms a flavorful foundation for the other vegetables to blend with later.

Step 4: Cook the Additional Veggies

Now add the rest of your finely chopped veggies and a pinch of salt. Cook them with occasional stirring to get some nice golden edges without over-stirring. Those light caramelized bits bring incredible depth and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of this Extra Vegetable Fried Rice.

Step 5: Aromatics and Rice Time

Push the eggs and veggies to the side or transfer them to the bowl temporarily. Add more oil to the pan, then quickly cook freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until fragrant. This step wakes up your dish with bold, vibrant aromas. Next, stir in the cooked brown rice and mix everything together, letting the rice heat through and develop slight golden toasty edges.

Step 6: Add Greens, Eggs, and Season

Stir in any leafy greens and the chopped green onions, then fold the cooked veggies and eggs back into the pan. Remove from heat and mix in the tamari or soy sauce along with toasted sesame oil, carefully tasting and adjusting seasoning. This final blend gives the dish its signature savory-sweet-umami balance that makes every bite delicious.

Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Dish out the Extra Vegetable Fried Rice while steaming hot, and offer chili-garlic sauce or sriracha on the side for those who want an extra punch of heat. This will become your go-to for a healthy, comforting bowl anytime you need a satisfying meal in minutes.

How to Serve Extra Vegetable Fried Rice

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a dash of fresh cilantro really elevate the presentation and add delightful bursts of flavor to the dish.

Side Dishes

This fried rice pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed edamame, a crunchy Asian cucumber salad, or light miso soup. These companions keep the meal balanced and refreshing without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For something fun and unexpected, serve the Extra Vegetable Fried Rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or atop crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing hand-held bite. You can also turn it into a delicious stuffed omelet filling or use it as a base for grain bowls topped with your favorite protein or roasted nuts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Extra Vegetable Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for 3 to 4 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish in portions, tightly wrapped or in freezer-safe containers, for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the flavors and textures intact.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water or oil if needed, to restore its vibrant texture. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the rice and veggies from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! White rice works well for this recipe and will cook faster. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled before using to get the best texture in your Extra Vegetable Fried Rice.

What are the best vegetables to use?

Feel free to use whatever veggies you love or have on hand—snow peas, broccoli, bell peppers, and peas are excellent choices because they cook quickly and add great color and crunch.

Is this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

The recipe includes eggs, making it vegetarian but not vegan. To make it vegan, simply omit the eggs or replace them with tofu scramble for a similar texture and protein boost.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Adding red pepper flakes during cooking and serving chili-garlic sauce or sriracha on the side lets you control the heat level to suit your taste perfectly.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking together?

Cook the rice ahead of time and let it cool completely, preferably overnight in the refrigerator. Using day-old rice helps the grains stay separate when fried rather than clumping together.

Final Thoughts

This Extra Vegetable Fried Rice is one of those meals that never fails to bring comfort, nutrition, and a pop of vibrant flavor to the table. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and endlessly satisfying. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it might just become your new favorite weeknight staple.