Get Your Daily Dose of Nutrients with This Vegan Fried Rice With Bok Choy!
Welcome, fellow culinary enthusiasts, to my latest vegan recipe discovery – Vegan Fried Rice With Bok Choy. This recipe is the perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients that will transport you to a different cuisine altogether. With its bold flavors and unique twist on the classic fried rice dish, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to step up their cooking game.
I must say, I was initially hesitant to explore vegan cuisine, but this recipe has completely changed my mind. It’s incredibly easy to make and turns out delicious every single time. Don’t just take it from me; try it yourself and taste the explosion of flavor that this dish provides!
What sets this recipe apart is the secret ingredient – miso. Miso is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and complexity to dishes while being loaded with health benefits. In combination with other ingredients, miso creates umami flavors that are sure to wow your taste buds.
This vegan fried rice with bok choy is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for lunch the next day. Not only is it delicious, but it can easily be customized based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. So, whether you’re a dedicated vegan or a curious foodie wanting to shake things up in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your apron and get ready for a culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fried rice is one of my favorite comfort foods. It reminds me of childhood meals with my family and friends. But what makes this vegan fried rice with bok choy recipe different than any other fried rice recipe? The secret ingredient is miso – it brings the perfect umami flavor to the dish, a taste that reminds you of your favorite Chinese restaurant!
But wait, there’s more! This vegan fried rice is healthy, easy to make and packed with umpteen veggies! You don’t have to be a vegan culinary explorer like I am to appreciate the flavors in this dish. Anyone looking for a healthier spin on traditional fried rice will appreciate the unique combination of ginger, garlic, and chili sauce.
What sets this vegan recipe apart from all others is the addition of fresh bok choy, mushrooms, cilantro, and lime zest. These ingredients marry together perfectly to create a meal bursting with fresh flavors! Top it all off with some crispy tofu or your preferred protein source and enjoy a nutritious yet satisfying meal.
Trust me when I say that this Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy recipe will leave you feeling full, happy and nourished. It’s a dish you can share with family and friends while showing off your cooking skills, or enjoy it all by yourself on your farmers market inspired dining table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make good food that tastes great and is worth sharing!
Ingredient List
Before we dive into making this vegan fried rice with bok choy, let’s first go over what you’ll need to have on hand. In this recipe, we’ll be using a variety of bold flavors to make a satisfying and filling dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Rice
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (see notes for an alternative)
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 4 cups chopped bok choy
- 2 cups chopped fresh mushrooms
- 2 cups chopped baby bok choy
- ½ cup frozen peas
Seasoning and Sauces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon miso
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped scallion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime zest
Note: You could use brown rice (brown or brown basmati) instead of jasmine rice in this recipe. For a fun variation, try thai fried rice with crispy tofu or vegan kimchi fried rice bowl with purple carrot.
The Recipe How-To
Are you ready to learn how to make this vegan fried rice with bok choy? Buckle up, because I’m going to take you on a ride through the recipe so you can create a delicious dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more!
Ingredients
First things first, let’s gather all of our ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 cup cooked rice (see tips for perfect results on how to cook perfect rice)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 cups mushrooms (basically whatever kind you like; we love shiitake and button), chopped
- 1 cup bok choy, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 4 ounces peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili sauce (optional)
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add some crispy tofu or purple carrot for extra flavor.
Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready to go, let’s start cooking.
Step 1: Cook the rice
Cook the rice according to package instructions. If you’re using day-old rice from the fridge, even better! It adds more texture to your fried rice.
Step 2: Prep the veggies
While waiting for the rice to cook, chop all your veggies and set them aside (see substitutions and variations for more veggie options).
Step 3: Heat up the oil
In a wok or non-stick pan over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil and sesame oil until hot.
Step 4: Add aromatics and sauté veggies
Add minced garlic and fresh ginger to the heated oil for about a minute until fragrant. Then add onions and carrots for another two minutes until softened. Next add mushrooms and bok choy until vegetables are soft but still have some crunch left. Throw in peas at the end for just enough time until they get nice and warm but not overcooked.
Step 5: Toss with rice
Add cooked rice into the wok with veggies and continue seasoning with soy sauce and chili sauce. Mix everything really well in the pan so that every spoonful of rice tastes like heaven!
Tips for Perfect Results
Here are a few tips for ensuring your vegan fried rice with bok choy comes out restaurant-style every time:
- Cook your rice just right – either fresh after boiling or hold on it overnight!
- Buy fresh veggies from local farmers market than imported ones from grocery stores.
- Add some crispy tofu or purple carrots if desired.
- In place of soy sauce or chili sauce try using a little bit of miso paste.
Conclusion
You have
Substitutions and Variations
Despite this recipe’s wealth of fresh flavors, it can be easily customized to fit your desired preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can make to switch things up:
– Rice: While jasmine or basmati rice are recommended for this recipe, you could use brown rice to make this dish even healthier. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try a different type of rice, such as black or red rice.
– Vegetables: The recipe calls for bok choy and mushrooms, but you could substitute with other vegetables of your choice. Pak choi, purple carrot or crispy tofu also make welcome additions here. Just remember that the vegetables should be chopped and diced evenly for the best results.
– Sauce: The soy sauce and chili sauce in this recipe are what give the fried rice its distinct flavor. However, you could experiment with different sauces, such as oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. You can also adjust the amount of chili sauce based on your personal preference for spice levels.
– Vegan Kimchi: To give your vegan fried rice a tangy twist, try adding vegan kimchi to your recipe. Make sure to remove any excess liquid before adding it into the pan so that it doesn’t turn your fried rice soggy.
– Cilantro: If cilantro isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can leave it out entirely or substitute with another herb such as basil or parsley.
Remember that cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to get creative with ingredients and see what delicious combinations you come up with!
Serving and Pairing
This vegan fried rice with bok choy is a wonderful dish to serve as a main course for lunch or dinner. The flavors of the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce meld perfectly with the tender bok choy and meaty mushrooms to create a mouthwatering Asian-inspired meal that will surely satisfy your cravings.
One great way to serve this vegan fried rice is by pairing it with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Doing so adds an extra pop of color and freshness to your dish while also complementing the flavors found in this recipe. Additionally, you could add some crispy tofu on top of the dish or even wrap it up in freshly steamed pak choi for an even more substantial meal.
If you’re looking to pair this vegan fried rice with something else, there are many options that would work well. You could serve it alongside some Thai-style fried chicken or purple carrot and mushroom fried rice bowls for a complete meal that will transport your taste buds straight to a bustling Asian farmers market.
Alternatively, if you’d like to keep things simple, you could pair this dish with a light salad made with fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. This would allow the flavors of the vegan fried rice to shine through while also providing you with a well-rounded meal.
No matter how you choose to serve this vegan fried rice with bok choy, one thing is certain: it tastes like something straight out of a restaurant. So sit back, relax, and enjoy every bite of this gingery-fried dish!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy recipe is the perfect dish to make-ahead for meal prep or to store leftovers. Cook a big batch on the weekend and reheat it throughout the week for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
To make-ahead, cook the rice according to the recipe instructions, then set it aside in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use. The stir fry itself can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and stir fry together in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Storing leftover Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy is easy. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. To reheat the rice, place it in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
For best results, try not to overcook the rice when reheating. If it’s too dry, add a bit of water or vegetable broth to moisten it up again.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking to store leftovers, this Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy recipe is a great choice. Just make sure you store it properly, reheat it carefully, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you know how to make the vegan fried rice with bok choy recipe successfully, here are a few tips to achieve perfect results.
Firstly, it is essential to use day-old cooked rice. Freshly cooked rice has more moisture and can turn mushy when stir-fried, ruining the texture of the dish. If possible, cook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice from the day before.
When stir-frying, it’s crucial to use high heat and a large skillet or wok. This will allow the ingredients to cook quickly and evenly while ensuring that they retain their crunchiness. Heat your skillet or wok well before adding the oil to prevent sticking.
Speaking of oil, peanut and sesame oils are excellent choices for frying as they have a high smoke point and impart a nutty flavor that complements the dish’s earthy flavors.
Next, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavorings and variations. You could try adding crispy tofu, farmers market vegetables like purple carrot or pak choi, or even vegan kimchi for an extra punch of umami.
Finally, once your fried rice is ready, serve it hot with garnishes such as cilantro, lime zest or chopped scallions for an added freshness and vibrant color. Remember, fried rice is a customizable dish; feel free to make it your own!
By following these simple tips, you’re sure to create perfect restaurant-style vegan fried rice every time.
FAQ
As with any recipe, questions and concerns may arise while preparing vegan fried rice with bok choy. That is why we have compiled the most frequently asked questions to ensure that you feel confident and comfortable making this dish at home. From substitutions to storage, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the FAQ section and get those answers!
What gives Chinese fried rice it’s flavor?
Fried rice can be elevated to a new level of deliciousness with the addition of three crucial sauces: soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. These sauces each have distinct flavors that enhance the savory taste of your dish. However, these powerful sauces should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming your taste buds. Always taste test your rice as you go to ensure the flavors of your meat and veggies are emphasized, rather than drowned in too much sauce. Remember, balance is key!
What is the secret ingredient to restaurant fried rice?
Add a touch of magic to your fried rice with my secret ingredient: butter! Take the taste and texture of your rice to the next level by incorporating this simple yet flavorful ingredient. Mimicking the culinary technique utilized in acclaimed hibachi restaurants, the butter aids in browning the rice and adding depth to its taste. Trust me, this small addition will make a major difference in the overall taste of your dish. So be sure to grab the butter next time you hit the grocery store!
How do you make fried rice taste like a restaurant?
For an authentic restaurant-style taste, it’s recommended to stir the rice in a pot over high heat for approximately five minutes before cooking. Doing so will help the grains of rice to remain separate, resulting in a delectable and less sticky texture. Keep this in mind when preparing your dish to achieve that perfect restaurant-style flavor.
What part of bok choy do you eat in stir-fry?
The vegetable in question is versatile in terms of its preparation, as its stalks and leaves can be used in various dishes. With a flavor profile reminiscent of cabbage, there is a sweetness that adds depth to its taste. Whether cooked or raw, this vegetable can add a unique twist to soups, stir-fries, and salads.
Bottom Line
As a culinary explorer, I wholeheartedly recommend trying this Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy recipe. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it will take your taste buds on a journey you won’t forget.
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make and versatile. You can use different types of rice, add in your favorite veggies, and even top it with crispy tofu or some vegan kimchi for extra flavor.
By using high-quality ingredients such as fresh ginger, miso, and soy sauce, you can recreate the flavors of a restaurant-style dish right at home. Moreover, this vegan dish is loaded with nutritious vegetables like bok choy and mushrooms that will give you the energy to explore more cuisine.
So why not step out of your culinary comfort zone and give it a try? Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this Vegan Fried Rice with Bok Choy recipe will take your cooking skills to the next level.
Remember, food is not just fuel for our bodies; it’s an experience that can enrich our lives. Take advantage of this delicious opportunity to explore new flavors and expand your culinary horizons.
Enjoy your gingery fried rice and share your experience with us. Bon Appetit!
Vegan Fried Rice With Bok Choy Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 1 cup scallion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon agave syrup
- 4 cups cooked rice, cold
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon miso
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 chili, as hot as you like, minced
- 4 cups bok choy, shredded
- 2 cups mushrooms, cut into quarters
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Place a large ovenproof platter in the oven set at about 150 – to keep it warm.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a wok or large fry pan. Add the scallions and paprika. Stir fry for 1 minute. Stir in the soy sauce, chili sauce and agave syrup. Add the rice and stir fry until the rice is completely coated with the scallion mixture: 3-5 minutes.
- Spoon the rice into the center of the warmed platter leaving about a 2 inch border all the way around. Return it to the oven.
- Heat another tablespoon of oil in the wok. Add the ginger, miso, garlic and chill. Stir fry for 1 minute. Add the bok choy, mushrooms, lime peel and cumin. Stir fry for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Spoon the bok choy mixture around the rice on the platter. Sprinkle the cilantro over all.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Meet Mishra Vikas
Mishra Vikas has been programming for many years and has developed a number of successful online businesses. He is passionate about helping others to use technology to make their lives easier and more enjoyable. He has created a number of tutorials and articles on his website to help teach people how to make money online, travel on a budget and cook delicious meals. He hopes to inspire others to take advantage of the amazing opportunities that technology can offer.