Fried rice with eggs and vegetables

Fried rice with eggs and vegetables - a delicious recipe for a quick and healthy meal

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a bowl of fried rice with eggs and vegetables? This simple recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner or a hearty lunch. Fried rice with eggs and vegetables is not only tasty but also an excellent way to use leftover rice and vegetables you have in the fridge. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and available ingredients.

The history of fried rice is fascinating. It was created as a way to use leftover rice from previous meals, transforming it into a delicious dish. Over time, various cultures have adopted and adapted this recipe, adding their own ingredients and flavors. Today, fried rice is a popular dish worldwide, with each recipe having its own uniqueness.

Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 200 g basmati rice
- 400 ml water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 large eggs
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 150 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 200 g bacon or pancetta (optional)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil)

Step by step for perfect fried rice:

1. Preparing the rice: Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold running water to remove excess starch. Place the rice in a pot with 400 ml of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed. Turn off the heat and let the rice cool.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the rice is cooking, chop the onion finely, and dice the carrot and bell peppers into small cubes. If using frozen peas, make sure to drain them well. In a large frying pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until translucent, then add the carrot and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft.

3. Adding the peas: Once the vegetables are softened, add the drained peas and 50 ml of water. Cook everything over low heat until the water evaporates and the vegetables are well cooked but still retain a crunchy texture.

4. Preparing the eggs: In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the eggs to the pan over the cooked vegetables. Stir well to scramble the eggs, cooking until they are just set.

5. Finishing the fried rice: Once the eggs are cooked, add the cooled rice to the pan. Use a spatula to mix everything very well, ensuring the rice and vegetables are evenly combined. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Serving: If you choose to add bacon or pancetta, you can fry them separately until crispy and add them on top of the fried rice before serving. You can also drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh taste. Fried rice is served hot but is also delicious cold, so feel free to use it in salads as well.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add soy sauce or oyster sauce during cooking.
- For an extra kick, you can add spices like curry or sweet paprika.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use long-grain rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can use any type of rice, but basmati rice offers a fluffier texture.

2. Is the recipe vegan if I omit the eggs and bacon?
Absolutely! You can make a delicious vegan version by adding tofu or tempeh for protein.

3. What other sides can I serve with fried rice?
Fried rice pairs well with fresh salads, soups, or even grilled chicken.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in complex carbohydrates from rice, protein from eggs, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from vegetables. It is also a filling meal, easy to prepare, and perfect for a balanced diet.

Estimated calories per serving: 380-450 calories (depending on the addition of bacon or pancetta).

In conclusion, fried rice with eggs and vegetables is an excellent choice for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. Experiment with ingredients, adapt the recipe to your taste, and enjoy every bite!