Vegetable Fried Rice is one of those dishes that effortlessly turns a few humble ingredients into something comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Born from the practical need to use up leftover rice and veggies, it has become a staple in homes and restaurants around the world. And for good reason – it’s quick, adaptable, and absolutely delicious.
What makes vegetable fried rice so appealing is its versatility. You can throw in almost any vegetable you have on hand. Carrots, peas, bell peppers, onions, and corn are common choices, but broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, and even cabbage work beautifully too. Stir-fried together in a hot pan with cold, day-old rice, the ingredients develop a slightly crispy texture that’s both hearty and satisfying.
The key to great fried rice is using rice that has been cooked and chilled in advance. Freshly made rice tends to be too soft and sticky. Day-old rice, on the other hand, is firmer and separates easily, which is essential for that slightly chewy texture that fried rice is known for.
Flavor-wise, a simple combination of soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of sesame oil goes a long way. You can level it up with ginger, scallions, chili flakes, or a splash of rice vinegar. For added protein, toss in scrambled eggs or tofu. The dish also welcomes sauces like hoisin, sriracha, or even a drizzle of teriyaki if you want something sweeter.
Vegetable fried rice is a meal on its own, but it also makes a great side for dishes like grilled chicken, stir-fried beef, or crispy tofu. It’s also perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners, especially when time is tight.
Whether you’re cleaning out your fridge or intentionally planning a meatless meal, vegetable fried rice is always a smart, tasty choice. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and comes together in just minutes.

Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables peas, corn, green beans), carrots
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger grated
- 2 eggs beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs with a spatula until fully cooked.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and well-coated in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Too much ginger! Next time I’ll put less.
Do you have to use soy sauce? Im allergic to soy and wanna try it.
I think the soy sauce is kind of important for flavor, but maybe try a soy-free alternative like coconut aminos?
You can totally skip the soy sauce! Just add a bit of salt or some other sauce that suits you. Enjoy!
Why do you put ginger in this? I think it’s unnessecary. Just stick with the basics.
Ginger? Really? I thought it’s just fried rice, not some kinda ginger dish. No thanks.
I think ginger adds a nice zing! It really enhances the flavor. You should try it! 🍚
I tried this but it turned out mushy. I think I overcooked the rice. Oops!
Easy and quick! I used leftover rice, turned out great!
I always use leftover rice too! Such a time saver, right? Glad it worked for you!
Fried rice = life. This one is sooo good, I’m making it again tomorrow!
I think fried rice is good but gotta say, it’s not for everyone. What if someone doesn’t like veg? Can that be replaced with meat? 🤔
Absolutely! Fried rice is the best! I love adding extra veggies to mine. Can’t wait to hear how it turns out tomorrow!
This was super easy to make and tastes great! My family loved it!
This vegetable fried rice is the best! So easy and tasty, I make it all the time. Thanks!
I agree, it’s super easy! I often add extra veggies to mine, though. Makes it even better!
Yum! Only took me 20 minutes. I added chicken and it was a hit at the party! 🎉
Yummy! But I added some chicken too because I wanted more protein. It worked out!
Adding chicken sounds like a great idea! I often do that too for extra flavor. Glad it turned out well for you!
Chicken in fried rice? Huh, isn’t that not really fried rice then? But if you like it that’s cool, I guess.
This recipe is a fake! Fried rice cannot taste good without any meat!
Easy and delicious! Perfect for leftovers. My family loved it.
This recipe is truly a lifesaver! Quick dinner on a busy night. Thx!
I don’t like peas. Can I just leave them out? What would happen?
You can totally leave out the peas! It won’t ruin the recipe, just adjust the veggies you like. More carrots maybe?
Not bad but it needs more flavor. Maybe more soy sauce or some spices?
I totally agree! I always add more soy sauce and some chili flakes for a kick. It’s way better that way!
I don’t know, seems kinda bland to me. Needs more flavor.
This sounds legit but I don’t know about adding eggs. Can I skip that part?
Rice is just rice, not much to it. But it was okay I guess.
Ye, rice plain is boring. But with veggies and soy sauce, it’s a whole different thing! Gonna try it.
I actually think rice can be really tasty when you add stuff to it. This recipe sounds good!
I followed the recipe but it turned out kinda bland. Maybe I needed more soy sauce? 🤔
I think you might’ve needed to add more seasoning or even some chili flakes! It can be a little bland without some kick! 🌶️
2 cups rice? I used 3 and it was just too much rice!! I messed it up lol.
I forgot garlic at the store. Still turned out fine, but imagine if I’d added it! 4 stars!
Garlic does add a lot of flavor! I can’t imagine this without it. I’ll definitely try it with garlic next time!
Super simple and quick! I even added some sriracha for a kick! 🔥
Good but what’s with the ginger? It feels out of place. Just stick to the basics! 🥴
I think ginger adds a nice zing! It gives the dish a unique flavor. Don’t knock it till you try it! 😊
I liked it but my kids wouldn’t eat it. They are picky eaters. Any tips?
This was so delicious! My kids loved it. Will make again.
Eh, it was okay. Needed more flavor. I think it could use some hot sauce.
Nah, I don’t think hot sauce would help. It’s fried rice, not a taco! Just add more veggies next time.
I thought it was pretty good! The soy sauce added enough flavor for me. Maybe just try a different brand?
Quick and easy! I used leftover rice and it tasted great! Will make it again for sure!
I replaced the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce and it was bomb! 😋
Teriyaki sauce?! That’s a genius idea! Gonna try that next time. 😍
This recipe is super simple and delicious! Just made it for dinner and my whole family loved it! 😊
Nice and easy dish. Will make again, but next time with chicken!
Too much oil! My rice was sticky, I won’t try this again. 😤
I actually love this recipe! The oil gives it a great flavor. Maybe you used too much rice?
My rice got all mushy. What did I do wrong?? Can anyone help?