VEGETABLE FRIED RICE

This vegetable fried rice surpasses takeout quality. While intended as a side dish, this vegetable rice is delicious enough to be enjoyed on its own. This dish will complement any seafood dinner. See my recipe for coconut and cereal-crusted swai fish.

Ingredients:

• Long Grain Rice 1 Cup

• Kosher Sea Salt 1/4 Teaspoon

• Chopped Green Onions 1/2 Cup

• Brussels Sprouts 1 to 1 1/2 Cups

• Sliced Cherry Tomatoes 1/2 Cup

• Minced Garlic 2 Teaspoons

• Smoked Paprika 1/2 Teaspoon

• Thyme (Freshly Chopped or Dried) 1/2 Teaspoon

• Ground Turmeric 1/4 Teaspoon

• Ground Black Pepper 1/8 Teaspoon

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3 Tablespoons

Vegetable Fried Rice

Instructions:

1. Wash and drain 1 Cup of rice. Boil the rice in water with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Let the rice cook until it's almost done; strain the rice with a sieve and set it aside. Use any long grain rice of your choice--jasmine, white rice, whole grain, and so on. 

2. Add enough oil (about 3 tablespoons) to your pan or wok to sauté your veggies. You may use any oil for sautéing, such as peanut or grape-seed oil. I opted for extra virgin olive oil. I like to use medium high heat; however, some cooks prefer high heat. 

3. Add the onions and garlic and cook for about 2 1/2 to 3 minutes. 

Add the other vegetables and cook for about 2 minutes. Feel free to include any *vegetables of your choice—Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, onions, bell peppers, carrots, spinach, mushrooms, etc. I chose Brussels sprouts, green onions, garlic, and cherry tomatoes, with the latter being sourced from our garden. The Brussels sprouts were oven-roasted in advance, as I appreciate the charred texture and enhanced flavor. 

4. Add in all the seasonings and continue cooking and stirring for another minute.

5. Add in the rice and continue stirring and frying for about 2 minutes. I added the sliced tomatoes at the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

Storage: The vegetable fried rice can be kept in a refrigerator for 3 or 4 days in an airtight container.

*Note: Always wash your vegetables before preparing and cooking. 

Always consult your healthcare providers and/or nutritionist concerning diet changes, proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, weight loss and/or exercise programs! Many blessings on your life's journey! OLG