Looking for a quick and flavorful meal to spice up your weeknight dinners? This curry fried rice recipe is just the thing you need! Packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender rice, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're using leftover rice or starting from scratch, this recipe will guide you through the step-by-step process to create a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old, see rice recipes for inspiration)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers), diced
- 2 tablespoons of curry powder
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup of cooked chicken (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your vegetables and prepare your aromatics. It's crucial to have everything ready to go because once you start cooking, things will move quickly.
For the cooked rice, you can use a quality rice cooker for perfect fluffy rice.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Cook
Now, add the diced mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still retain a bit of crunch. This step can be modified based on the vegetables you prefer or have on hand.
Step 4: Incorporate the Curry Powder
Sprinkle the curry powder over the vegetables and stir well. The curry powder will infuse the vegetables with its warm, aromatic flavors, giving the dish its distinctive taste. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Next, add your cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with your spatula or a wooden spoon and make sure the rice is well combined with the vegetables and spices. Stir in the soy sauce and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Cook the Eggs
Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Once the eggs are done, mix them into the rice.
Step 7: Final Touches
If you are adding cooked chicken or any other protein, stir it in at this point. Season the curry fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice works best for fried rice recipes as it is drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you like or have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, and even corn can be great additions.
- Protein Options: This dish is versatile and can be made vegetarian or with your choice of protein such as shrimp, tofu, or beef.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like your food spicy, consider adding a bit of chili paste or freshly chopped chilies.
- Garnish Creatively: Besides green onions and cilantro, you can add crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
Explore More Recipes
Interested in more delicious recipes? Check out our Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe, Crusty Bread Recipe, and Rustic Bread Recipe.
For more rice recipes and ideas, consider visiting Taste of Home for inspiration.
Clean Your Cookware Properly
After enjoying this tasty dish, keeping your cookware in top shape is essential. Use a reliable Cookware Cleaner to remove any residue and a Cutting Board Oil to maintain your cutting board. Clean cookware ensures the longevity and maintenance of your kitchen tools.
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