Beet fried rice is a vibrant, nutritious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for anyone looking to add a splash of color and a boost of vitamins to their meal. This vegan recipe marries the earthy sweetness of beets with the satisfying texture of fried rice, creating a dish that’s both visually stunning and deliciously wholesome.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Not only is beet fried rice packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to customize with your favorite veggies and proteins. Plus, it makes excellent use of leftover rice, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan beet fried rice recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s packed with nutrition thanks to the beets, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
The vibrant color of the beets naturally dyes the rice with a beautiful pinkish hue, making your plate look appetizing and fun.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap or add vegetables, grains, or spices to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
It’s also oil-friendly and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. The quick and simple preparation means you can enjoy a wholesome, restaurant-quality dish in less than 30 minutes.
Finally, it’s a perfect introduction to vegan cooking for those hesitant about plant-based meals, offering a familiar yet exciting flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
- 1 medium beet, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Grater or food processor (for grating beets)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Bowl for mixing
Instructions
- Prepare your rice: If you haven’t already, cook the rice according to package instructions and let it cool completely. Day-old rice works best because it’s dryer and fries up better without becoming mushy.
- Grate the beet: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the peeled beet into fine shreds. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir frequently and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add vegetables and beet: Toss in the grated beet and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften but still retain some crunch.
- Incorporate rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan. Use your spatula to break up any clumps, mixing everything thoroughly so the beet’s color starts to coat the rice.
- Season the dish: Pour in the soy sauce (or tamari) and sesame oil. Sprinkle with black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Cook through: Continue frying the rice mixture, stirring frequently for another 5 minutes. This helps the rice crisp up slightly and the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
“For the best texture, always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump and become mushy when fried.”
Customize Your Veggies: Feeling creative? Add diced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Roasted tofu cubes or tempeh also make a great protein addition.
Make It Spicy: Add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Nutty Aroma: Toast your sesame seeds before adding for a deeper flavor.
Use Beet Juice: For a more intense color and flavor, add a tablespoon of fresh beet juice during cooking.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
For more delicious plant-based inspirations, check out these recipes: Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals, Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals, and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 52 g |
Protein | 6 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Vitamin A | 15% DV |
Vitamin C | 18% DV |
Iron | 12% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This beet fried rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside crispy spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a light and refreshing meal.
For heartier options, try it with vegan Korean BBQ tofu or your favorite marinated seitan strips. You can also enjoy it as a flavorful base for a Buddha bowl topped with avocado slices and crunchy nuts.
Looking for more vibrant vegan meals? Explore Vegan Tomato Pie Recipe for a Fresh, Flavorful Meal or try Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert.
Conclusion
Beet fried rice is a fantastic way to brighten up your dinner table with a colorful, nutrient-rich dish that’s both vegan and delicious. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
The natural sweetness of beets combined with savory soy sauce and fragrant sesame oil creates a balanced, satisfying flavor that will appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike.
By using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe encourages experimenting with different vegetables and spices, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re a beginner in vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this beet fried rice offers a fresh, wholesome meal option that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting plant-based recipes on our site such as Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight and Raw Vegan Recipes PDF for Easy and Healthy Meals to keep your menu fresh and inspiring!
📖 Recipe Card: Beet Fried Rice Recipe Vegan
Description: A vibrant and healthy vegan fried rice made with grated beets, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 medium beet, peeled and grated
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add grated beet and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add cooked rice and mix well to combine.
- Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper; stir thoroughly.
- Cook for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 35 g
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