Brown fried rice is a hearty, wholesome dish that combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with vibrant vegetables and savory seasonings. This vegan version is not only packed with nutrients but also full of texture and taste, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a flavorful side, this brown fried rice recipe will hit all the right notes. It’s easy to customize, budget-friendly, and comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover rice and veggies in your fridge.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make perfectly fried brown rice that’s fluffy yet slightly crispy on the edges, enhanced by fresh garlic, ginger, and a splash of tamari or soy sauce. You’ll learn the best cooking tips to keep the rice from getting mushy and how to add protein-rich edamame or tofu if you like.
Enjoy this wholesome vegan dish as a standalone meal or pair it with other plant-based delights for a complete feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan brown fried rice recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, fiber-rich meal without sacrificing flavor. Using brown rice instead of white rice adds more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to better digestion and sustained energy.
The combination of fresh vegetables and simple seasoning makes it a vibrant, colorful dish that satisfies your taste buds and your health goals.
It’s incredibly versatile — you can tweak the veggies based on your preferences or what’s in season. Plus, it comes together quickly and is perfect for batch cooking or meal prepping.
If you’re interested in more wholesome vegan recipes, check out our Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals for more inspiration.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably chilled overnight)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or any neutral cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell pepper, chopped)
- 1 cup cooked edamame (optional for protein)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater or microplane (for ginger)
- Knife and cutting board
- Bowl to mix sauce ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Use brown rice that has been cooked and cooled, ideally refrigerated overnight. This helps the grains separate and fry better without becoming mushy.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place your skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn.
- Cook the vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add the rice: Increase heat to high and add the chilled brown rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spatula and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes to allow the rice to toast slightly.
- Incorporate edamame and sauce: Add the cooked edamame (if using) and pour the sauce mixture over the rice and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Finish with green onions: Remove from heat and stir in the sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Transfer to serving bowls, sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy your delicious vegan brown fried rice!
Tips & Variations
“For the best texture, always use day-old rice that’s been chilled. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can turn mushy when frying.”
- Protein boost: Add cubed tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Veggie swaps: Try zucchini, mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for different flavors and textures.
- Spicy kick: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or diced fresh chili to spice it up.
- Nutty flavor: Toast some chopped cashews or peanuts and sprinkle on top before serving.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check all condiments.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Protein | 8g |
Fat | 7g |
Fiber | 5g |
Sodium | 600mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan brown fried rice is wonderfully versatile as a main or a side dish. Serve it with steamed or roasted vegetables for a nutrient-packed dinner.
It also pairs beautifully with other vegan favorites like Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or a fresh salad.
For a more filling meal, add a side of pan-fried tofu or tempeh. And if you want some sweet to balance the savory, check out the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert.
Conclusion
This vegan brown fried rice recipe is a fantastic addition to your plant-based recipe collection. It combines wholesome brown rice with fresh vegetables and flavorful seasonings to create a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
The recipe is simple to prepare, flexible enough to accommodate whatever veggies you have on hand, and perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
By incorporating this recipe into your routine, you’ll enjoy a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health. For more delicious vegan recipes that bring excitement to your kitchen, explore our collection of Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals and Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Brown Fried Rice Recipe Vegan
Description: A healthy and flavorful vegan brown fried rice packed with vegetables and savory seasonings. Perfect as a quick meal or a side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice (preferably chilled)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add crumbled tofu and cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cooked brown rice, soy sauce, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Stir-fry everything together for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and mix in sliced green onions.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds before serving, if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 45 g
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