Veg Fried Rice Recipe | Easy Homemade Vegetable Fried Rice

Fried rice is one of the most loved dishes around the world, and Veg Fried Rice is a special favorite for those who enjoy a healthy and tasty meal. It is a dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with fresh vegetables, a few spices, and sometimes a touch of soy sauce for extra flavor. It is believed that fried rice first started during the Sui Dynasty (around 589–618 AD) in China. People wanted to reuse leftover rice in a delicious way, so they mixed it with vegetables, meat, and seasonings in a hot wok. Over time, this simple idea spread to many countries and became one of the most popular Asian dishes. But instead of adding meat, many homes started making a vegetarian version using carrots, beans, peas, capsicum, and other fresh vegetables. This is how Veg Fried Rice became a household favorite in Indian kitchens. Today, it is enjoyed not only as a quick meal but also as a perfect dish to serve with tasty Indo-Chinese sides like Chilli Paneer, Gobi Manchurian, or other spicy gravies for a complete and filling meal.

 

What is Veg Fried Rice Recipe 

Veg Fried Rice is a simple, colorful, and tasty rice dish made with cooked rice and fresh vegetables. It is one of the most popular Indo-Chinese recipes enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and street food corners. This dish is made by stir-frying rice with vegetables like carrots, beans, peas, and capsicum along with light spices and sauces. The result is a flavorful, slightly crunchy, and aromatic dish that is healthy and filling at the same time.

To make Veg Fried Rice, first, rice is cooked and allowed to cool so the grains stay separate. Then, in a hot pan or wok, vegetables are stir-fried quickly on high flame to keep their crunch. After that, the rice is mixed with the veggies, along with soy sauce, pepper, and salt to add flavor. You can also add spring onions or other vegetables of your choice to make it more colorful and nutritious.

This Easy Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a quick and homemade Indo-Chinese meal. You don’t need many ingredients, and the steps are very simple to follow. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with dishes like chilli paneer or Gobi Manchurian, Veg Fried Rice will always be a satisfying and delicious choice.

 

How to Make Veg Fried Rice

A plate of  Veg Fried Rice is one of the tastiest and easiest meals you can make at home. It is colorful, full of fresh vegetables, and has a wonderful flavor that everyone loves. This dish is healthy, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner. The best part is, you don’t need any special ingredients, just rice, vegetables, a little oil, and simple sauces. With a few quick steps, you can prepare delicious Veg Fried Rice that tastes just like restaurant-style. In this guide, we will learn step by step how to make Veg Fried Rice in an easy and simple way.

Cook the Rice

Step 1:- Take 1½ cups basmati rice in a bowl. Wash it 3–4 times in water until the water looks almost clear. This removes extra starch and keeps the grains separate.

Step 2:- Add fresh water and soak for 20 minutes. Soaking helps the rice cook evenly and stay long and fluffy. After 20 minutes, drain all the water.

Step 3:- In a large pot, boil 4 cups water. Add ½ teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon oil (oil stops sticking). Use a big pot so the rice has space to move and not break.

Step 4:- Add the soaked, drained rice to the boiling water. Let it cook on medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes. Stir gently once or twice. Do not over-mix.

Step 5:- Test a grain: take one grain and press it between fingers. It should be soft outside with a tiny bite in the center (almost cooked, not mushy).

Step 6:- Pour the rice into a colander/strainer to remove all water (Optional) Splash a little cold water on the rice to stop further cooking.

Step 7:- Spread the rice on a wide plate/tray. Drizzle ½ teaspoon oil and gently fluff with a fork. Let it cool completely.

Step 8:- Optional: No-Drain (Absorption) Method:- Ratio: 1 cup rice : 1¾ cups water + a pinch of salt + a few drops of oil. Boil, then cover and cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes until water is absorbed. Turn off heat, rest 10 minutes, then spread and cool completely before frying.

Step 9:- Pressure cooker (stovetop): 1 cup rice : 1½ cups water. Cook on high to 1 whistle, then turn off. Let pressure drop naturally. Spread and cool.

Step 10:- Instant Pot: 1 cup rice : 1 to 1¼ cups water. Pressure Cook 5 minutes (High), 10 minutes natural release. Spread and cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

Step 11:- Wash all the vegetables well. Finely chop ½ cup carrot, ½ cup beans, ½ cup capsicum (bell pepper), ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen), and 1 small onion. Try to cut the vegetables into small, even-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.

Step 12:- Place a wok or large kadai on high flame. Add 2 tablespoons oil and let it get hot. A wok works best for fried rice because it cooks the veggies fast and keeps them crunchy.

Step 13:- Add 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger to the hot oil. If you like a little spice, add 1 chopped green chili. Stir-fry for just 30–40 seconds until they give a nice aroma.

Step 14:- Now add the chopped carrot, beans, peas, and capsicum. Stir everything quickly on high flame.

Step 15:- Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes only. The veggies should be slightly cooked but still crisp. This crunch gives fried rice its special taste and texture.

Fry the Rice

Step 16:- Once your vegetables are stir-fried and still slightly crunchy, reduce the flame to medium-high. Add the cooked and cooled rice to the wok or pan. Use a spatula or big spoon to spread it gently over the veggies.

Step 17:- Stir the rice and veggies together with light hands. Do not press or over-mix, or the rice grains may break. Toss gently so that the rice mixes evenly with the vegetables.

Step 18:- Optional: Pour in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon vinegar (add a few drops of chili sauce if you like it a little spicy). Stir quickly so the sauces coat every grain of rice.

Step 19:- Sprinkle ½ teaspoon black pepper powder and a little salt. Be careful with salt, because soy sauce already has some. Mix gently so the flavor spreads throughout.

Step 20:- Increase the heat to high flame and stir-fry the rice for 2–3 minutes. Keep tossing the rice and veggies quickly, just like in restaurants. This step gives the fried rice its smoky, restaurant-style taste.

Turn off the heat. This gives a fresh flavor and a nice look to the rice.

Serving Suggestion

1. Veg Fried Rice tastes best when eaten hot. After cooking, transfer it straight from the wok or pan into a serving bowl or plate.

2. Sprinkle some freshly chopped spring onions on top before serving. You can also drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for a nice aroma (optional).

3. Veg Fried Rice goes perfectly with dishes like:

 Chilli Paneer (gravy or dry)

 Gobi Manchurian

 Veg Manchurian (gravy)

 Chilli Mushroom

 Baby Corn Manchurian

 Chilli Potato

The spicy, tangy gravies balance the mild and flavorful rice.

4. If you want something light, you can also enjoy Veg Fri ed Rice on its own. Add a side of fresh salad or a simple soup (like hot and sour soup or manchow soup) for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Veg Fried Rice

Making Veg Fried Rice at home is simple, but if you want that perfect restaurant-style taste, a few expert tips can make a big difference. Small things like using the right type of rice, cutting vegetables evenly, or cooking on high flame can change the flavor and texture completely. These tips will help you make fried rice that is tasty, non-sticky, and full of flavor every single time.

✅ Use leftover or cold rice:- Freshly cooked hot rice becomes sticky when fried. Always use leftover rice or rice that has been cooked, cooled, and kept in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This keeps the grains separate and fluffy.

✅ Cook rice the right way:- Do not overcook the rice; it should be 90–95% cooked (soft outside, slight bite inside). Drain extra water and spread on a plate to cool before frying.

✅ Cut vegetables evenly:- Chop all vegetables into small, even-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and look neat in the rice.

✅ High flame is the secret:- Always stir-fry the vegetables and rice on high flame. This gives that smoky, restaurant-style flavor and keeps the veggies crunchy.

✅ Don’t overcook the veggies:- Vegetables should be slightly crunchy, not too soft or mushy. Stir-fry for just a few minutes to lock in flavor and nutrition.

✅ Add sauces carefully:- Soy sauce already has salt, so taste before adding extra salt. Vinegar adds a nice tang, but don’t add too much or it will make the rice sour.

✅ Stir gently:- When mixing rice with vegetables, toss lightly. Do not press or stir too hard, or the rice grains will break.

✅ Choose the right oil:- Use oils with a neutral taste (like sunflower or rice bran oil). For extra flavor, add a few drops of sesame oil at the end.

✅ Use a wok or wide pan:- A wok works best because it spreads heat evenly and makes tossing easier. If you don’t have one, use a large, heavy-bottom pan.

✅ Serve immediately:- Fried rice tastes best when eaten hot and fresh. Don’t keep it sitting for too long, as the rice may turn dry.

Follow these tips and your Veg Fried Rice will always turn out fluffy, colorful, and full of flavor, just like restaurant-style fried rice.

Recipe Card

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Veg Fried Rice Recipe | Easy Homemade Vegetable Fried Rice

Preparation Time 15 Minutes Cooking Time 20 Minutes Total Time 45 Minutes Servings: 4

1 Cup= 240 ml, 1 Tablespoon = 15ml, 1 Teaspoon = 5ml

Ingredients    

For Rice:

• Basmati Rice (or long-grain rice): 1 ½ cups
• Water:                                             4 cups
• Salt:                                                ½ teaspoon
• Oil:                                                  1 teaspoon

For Veg Fried Rice:

• Oil:                                                2 tablespoons (any cooking oil)
• Ginger (finely chopped):              1 teaspoon
• Green Chili (optional, finely chopped): 1
• Carrot:                                           ½ cup (finely chopped)
• Beans:                                           ½ cup (finely chopped)
• Green Peas:                                   ½ cup (fresh or frozen)
• Capsicum (bell pepper):                ½ cup (chopped)
• Spring Onion:                               2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
• Soy Sauce:                                    1 tablespoon
• Vinegar:                                        1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper Powder:                  ½ teaspoon
• Salt:                                               to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Rice

Step 1: Wash and soak rice for 20 minutes, then drain.

Step 2: Boil water with salt and 1 teaspoon oil.

Step 3: Add rice and cook until just done (not mushy). Drain and let it cool completely.

Prepare the Vegetables

Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok or large pan on high flame.

Step 5: Add ginger, and green chili. Sauté for a few seconds.

Step 6: Add carrot, beans, peas, and capsicum. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly cooked but still crunchy.

Fry the Rice

Step 7: Add the cooked rice to the pan. Mix gently with the vegetables.

Step 8: Pour in soy sauce and vinegar. Add black pepper and salt.

Step 9: Stir-fry everything on high flame for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend well.

Serve

Step 10: Serve hot with chilli paneer, gobi manchurian, or any spicy Indo-Chinese gravy.

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Tips:

• Always use cold rice (leftover rice works best) to avoid stickiness.
• Stir-fry on high flame for that perfect restaurant-style taste.
• Add your favorite vegetables like baby corn or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Adjust soy sauce and vinegar as per your taste.

Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade Veg Fried Rice.

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Nutrition Facts

Eating Veg Fried Rice is not just tasty but also filling and nutritious! This dish is made with rice, colorful vegetables, soy sauce, and light seasoning, making it a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. If you want a wholesome, quick, and satisfying meal that feels like restaurant-style food, Veg Fried Rice is a great choice. Let’s look at the nutrition facts for one serving (about 1 cup / 200–220 g).

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (Based on a 2,000-Calorie Diet)	Health Benefits
Calories	270–320 kcal	16%	Provides energy and keeps you active.
Protein	5–6 g	10%	From rice and vegetables; helps body repair and growth.
Carbohydrates	50 g	17%	Main energy source for daily activities.
– Dietary Fiber	4 g	16%	Aids digestion and keeps you full.
– Sugars	2–3 g	–	Naturally present in rice and veggies.
Total Fat	7 g	11%	From cooking oil; provides healthy fats.
– Saturated Fat	1.5 g	8%	Comes from oil or butter; best in moderation.
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%	A heart-healthy meal with no cholesterol.
Sodium	450–500 mg	20%	From soy sauce and salt; balance intake.
Potassium	230 mg	6%	Supports healthy muscles and heart function.
Calcium	70 mg	7%	Strengthens bones and teeth.
Iron	2.2 mg	12%	Helps carry oxygen in the blood and boosts energy.
Vitamin A	550 IU	11%	Supports healthy vision and immunity.
Vitamin C	8 mg	9%	Boosts immunity and improves iron absorption.
Vitamin D	0 IU	0%	Not naturally present; can be paired with dairy.
Vitamin B6	0.2 mg	12%	Supports brain function and metabolism.
Magnesium	40 mg	10%	Helps relax muscles and supports metabolism.
Phosphorus	120 mg	12%	Strengthens bones and supports energy production.
Zinc	1 mg	9%	Supports immunity and wound healing.
Selenium	4 mcg	7%	Acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid health.

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Veg Fried Rice is a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying dish that gives you the perfect balance of carbs, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It’s best enjoyed hot, with sides like chilli paneer, manchurian, or a simple raita for a complete meal.

Store and Reheat Process

Storing and reheating Veg Fried Rice the right way is very important to keep its taste and freshness. If not stored properly, the rice can become dry, hard, or even unsafe to eat. By following some easy steps, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor of your fried rice even after a day or two.


How to store veg fried rice

1) Cool the rice before storing:- After cooking, let the Veg Fried Rice cool down completely at room temperature. Do not pack hot rice directly, as steam will form inside the container and make the rice soggy.

2) Use an airtight container:- Transfer the cooled fried rice into a clean, airtight container. This keeps the rice fresh and prevents it from absorbing smells from the fridge.

3) Store in the fridge:- Keep the container in the refrigerator. Veg Fried Rice will stay good for up to 2 days. Do not keep it for too long, as cooked rice can spoil quickly.

4) Store in the freezer (for longer use):- If you want to keep it for more days, store the rice in small freezer-safe boxes or zip bags. Frozen Veg Fried Rice stays good for up to 1 month. Always label the box with the date so you know when to use it.


How to Reheat Veg Fried Rice

1) Reheat in a pan (best way):- Take out the rice from the fridge. Heat 1–2 teaspoons oil in a pan or wok. Add the cold fried rice and toss gently on medium-high flame for 3–4 minutes. This makes the rice hot and fresh again, almost like just cooked.

2) Reheat in the microwave (quick method):- Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle a few drops of water on top to keep it moist. Cover the bowl with a lid or microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1–2 minutes (stir once in between if needed).

3) Reheat frozen rice:- If the rice is frozen, first thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then reheat using the pan or microwave method. Do not re-freeze rice once thawed.


Extra Tips

• Reheat only the portion you need. Do not reheat the whole box if you are eating just a small amount.
• Do not reheat fried rice more than once, as it may lose taste and freshness.
• If the rice feels too dry after reheating, add a few drops of water or a drizzle of soy sauce while tossing.

By following these steps, you can store and reheat Veg Fried Rice safely, keeping it tasty, fluffy, and fresh even the next day.

Conclusion

Veg Fried Rice is one of the most loved and easy dishes you can make at home. It is colorful, tasty, and full of nutrition because it combines rice with a variety of fresh vegetables. In this recipe, we have seen how to prepare the veggies, fry the rice properly, and use the right sauces and spices to get that perfect restaurant-style flavor. By following the step-by-step process, you can easily cook this dish in your own kitchen without any difficulty.

Veg Fried Rice is not only delicious but also healthy. It provides energy, fiber, and essential nutrients that make it a complete and balanced meal. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it with manchurian, chili paneer, or even a simple raita. It is a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or even for packing in a tiffin box.

So, gather your ingredients, and start cooking this delightful treat today. Share your feedback and let us know how your Veg Fried Rice turned out.

FAQs About Making Veg Fried Rice

1. Can I use freshly cooked rice for Veg Fried Rice?
It’s better not to use freshly cooked hot rice, as it turns soft and sticky when stir-fried. Always use leftover or cooled rice that has been kept in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This keeps the grains separate and fluffy.

2. Which rice is best for Veg Fried Rice?
Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine rice works best because the grains remain separate and give a nice texture. Short-grain rice can become sticky and clump together.

3. Do I need a wok to make fried rice?
A wok is perfect because it spreads heat evenly and makes tossing easier, but if you don’t have one, you can use any large, heavy-bottom pan. Just make sure the pan is wide enough so the rice and veggies can stir-fry properly.

4. Why is high flame important while cooking?
Cooking on high flame gives Veg Fried Rice a smoky, restaurant-style flavor. It also keeps the vegetables slightly crunchy instead of turning them mushy.

5. What vegetables can I add to Veg Fried Rice?
You can add common veggies like carrots, beans, capsicum, peas, cabbage, and spring onions. You can also add corn, broccoli, or even mushrooms. The choice depends on what you have at home.

6. How do I stop the rice grains from breaking while stirring?
Always stir gently. Toss the rice lightly instead of pressing it down with a spoon. Using cold rice also helps keep the grains firm and separate.

7. Can I make Veg Fried Rice without soy sauce?
Yes! Soy sauce adds flavor and color, but if you don’t want to use it, you can add a little salt, pepper, and vinegar for taste. A splash of lemon juice can also give a fresh tangy flavor.

8. How can I make Veg Fried Rice healthier?
You can use brown rice or millet instead of white rice for extra fiber. Add more vegetables, reduce the amount of oil, and use low-sodium soy sauce to make it lighter and healthier.