It was another long day at work. I was tired, hungry, and desperate for something different than the usual take-out fare. So, when I saw a recipe for microwave fried rice on Pinterest, I decided to give it a try. Can I just say…game changer!
The rice came out perfectly cooked, and the veggies were just the right mix of crispy and soft. Plus, it only took about 10 minutes to make, which meant that I could actually enjoy my dinner instead of spending half an hour cooking it.
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal, microwave fried rice is the way to go. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients Overview
Rice
Any type of rice will work for this recipe, so feel free to use your favorite variety. Basmati rice is a good option, as it is long grain and has a fluffy texture. Long-grain rice will also work well, as will jasmine rice. Just be sure to follow the measurements and cooking instructions outlined in the recipe so that you end up with perfect results.
Rice is a grain that has been consumed for centuries, and it is still a popular food choice today. There are many different types of rice, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
Rice is a healthy choice because it is low in fat and calories, and it also provides important nutrients like thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B6. Additionally, rice is a good source of fiber and it can help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Eggs
The truth is that eggs are essential to getting the perfect texture in your microwave fried rice. The key is to whisk them well before adding them to the rice. This helps them to cook evenly and prevents them from clumping together. In addition, the egg provides a richness and depth of flavor that can’t be replicated with any other ingredient.
Eggs are a nutritious food that has many health benefits. They are a good source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, D, and B12, as well as iron, phosphorus, and selenium. Eggs are also low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
Studies have shown that eating eggs can help to improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, eggs are a good source of choline, which is important for brain health.
Water
Water is necessary for this recipe because it helps to keep the rice from drying out and becoming overcooked. It is important to use the right amount of water, as too much will make the rice mushy and too little will make it dry and hard. For most microwave-fried rice that I’ve made, I find that 1/2 cup of water is the perfect amount.
Oil
Oil is necessary for this recipe to cook the egg and to add flavor to the rice. I usually use olive oil, but any type of cooking oil will work.
Sesame oil
Sesame oil is a type of vegetable oil that is made from sesame seeds. It has a nutty flavor and is often used in Asian cuisine. To make delicious fried rice, you need sesame oil. It might seem like any oil would work, but sesame oil has a flavor that other oils just can’t replicate.
There’s something about its nutty taste that takes the dish to the next level. And while you could use a different type of oil, your fried rice just wouldn’t be the same. Trust me, it’s worth taking the extra step to buy sesame oil.
Sesame oil is a good source of antioxidants and it contains vitamins E and K. Additionally, sesame oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Soy sauce
One key ingredient that is often overlooked is soy sauce. Soy sauce adds both flavor and depth to the dish, and it helps to bind the ingredients together. without it, the dish would be bland and dry. In addition, soy sauce helps to brown the rice, giving it a more authentic fried rice appearance.
Soy sauce is more than just a delicious condiment – it also offers a number of health benefits. One of the most important is its high content of antioxidants. These nutrients help to protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
In addition, soy sauce is a good source of umami, a savory flavor that can enhance the taste of food without adding salt. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are trying to reduce their sodium intake. Finally, soy sauce is fermented, making it a probiotic food that can promote gut health.
Frozen peas and carrots
Frozen peas and carrots are a staple in my house because they are so versatile. I always have a bag in the freezer for quick meals like this one. You could also use fresh peas and carrots, but I find that the frozen ones work just as well.
Frozen peas and carrots are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
Fresh scallion
A fresh scallion is a type of onion that has a milder flavor than other onions. It is also known as a green onion or spring onion. Scallions are a common ingredient in Asian cuisine and they add a delicious flavor to this dish.
In addition to their flavor, scallions are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
Salt
Last but not least, you will need salt to taste. We will add a pinch of salt to the egg before cooking it.
Salt is an essential ingredient in any dish, but it is important to use it sparingly. Too much salt can be unhealthy and it can make food taste unpleasant. When used in moderation, however, salt can enhance the flavor of food and help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Now that we have all of our ingredients, let’s get started on the recipe!
Substitutions
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy fried rice dish, but don’t have all of the ingredients necessary, never fear – there are plenty of substitutions you can make.
For example, if you don’t have frozen peas and carrots, you can use fresh broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach. If you don’t have scallions, try using chives instead. And if you don’t have sesame oil, try using perilla oil instead.
There are also many different types of soy sauce that you can use in this recipe. I usually use regular soy sauce, but if you’re looking for a lower sodium option, you could try using light soy sauce or tamari sauce.
Finally, if you’re not a fan of salt, feel free to leave it out altogether or use a less salty variety. With so many substitution options available, there’s no need to worry if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand. Just choose the substitutes that work best for you and your taste buds!
Now that we have all of our ingredients, let’s get started on the recipe!
Recipe
Yield: 1 serving
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 egg
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 tablespoon fresh scallion
- salt to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to make a delicious and healthy microwave-fried rice dish.
- Add oil to a microwave-safe mug and add the egg.
- Add salt and break the egg into smaller pieces with a fork.
- Microwave for one minute.
- Transfer the egg to a plate and set it aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Stir well and microwave for 6-8 minutes.
- Mix the frozen peas and carrots into the rice.
- Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Mix in the egg.
- Garnish with scallion and serve.
Storage instructions
If you have any leftover rice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for 1 or 2 days. Leftover rice can also be frozen. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and it will keep for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just defrost the rice in the microwave.
When it comes to reheating fried rice, you need to add a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth first. This will help to prevent the rice from drying out and becoming overcooked. Once you’ve added the liquid, reheat the rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
What to Serve with Microwave Fried Rice
There are many different ways that you can enjoy this microwave-fried rice dish. Here are a few of my favorite ideas.
1. Egg Drop Soup
This simple soup is the perfect way to start your meal. Its delicate flavors won’t overpower the fried rice, but it will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to move on to the main event. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just whisk some eggs, broth, and cornstarch together, and voila! Egg drop soup in a snap.
2. Chicken Teriyaki
Who doesn’t love chicken teriyaki? It’s sweet, it’s savory, it’s delicious. Plus, it pairs perfectly with fried rice. The rice soaks up all of the delicious teriyaki sauce, making every bite even better than the last. And did we mention that it’s easy to make? Just throw some chicken, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar in a pan and let it cook until the chicken is cooked through. Easy peasy!
3. Hot and Sour Soup
This soup is the perfect way to add a little heat to your meal. It’s spicy and flavorful, but not so spicy that you’ll be reaching for a fire extinguisher. The acidity of the vinegar cuts through the richness of the fried rice, making each bite even more enjoyable. Plus, it’s super simple to make! Just whisk together some broth, vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and spices and you’re good to go.
4. Chinese Dumplings
These little guys are the perfect bite-sized addition to your meal. They’re packed with flavor and they pair perfectly with fried rice. Not to mention, they’re oh-so-satisfying to eat! Just pop them in the steamer for a few minutes and voila! Delicious dumplings that are sure to please.
5. Gyoza
These Japanese dumplings are similar to Chinese dumplings, but they have a slightly different flavor profile. They’re still packed with flavor and they pair perfectly with fried rice, but they have a bit of a kick thanks to the addition of ginger and garlic. Just throw them in the pan and let them cook until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Conclusion
This microwave fried rice is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried rice. It’s easy to make and it only takes a few minutes in the microwave. Plus, there are lots of substitution options so you can customize it to your taste. Give it a try today!
