Fried Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice -- day-old works best because it is slightly dried out

• 1 egg (optional but suggested)

• (optional) 1/4-1/2 cup cooked protein, chopped small -- chicken, pork, beef, shrimp

• 1/4 cup diced onion

• 1/4 cup diced carrot

• (optional) 1/4 cup other cooked vegetables, chopped -- broccoli, bok choy, peppers

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 TB soy sauce (or to taste)

• (optional) 1 tsp fish sauce

• sesame oil

• 2 TB sliced green onions

• Topping suggestions: sunflower seeds or chopped peanuts, sriracha, cilantro

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add some sesame oil and the egg. Stir the egg to scramble it. Once cooked, remove it to a bowl or plate.

2. Add more sesame oil to the skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and carrots. Stir and sauté for 2-3 minutes to soften the vegetables. If using additional vegetables or protein, add them for a minute or two. Remove the mixture to the same bowl or plate as the egg.

3. Wipe out the pan (it doesn't have to be perfectly clean but you don't want bits to burn).

4. Add a little more sesame oil (about 1 TB). Heat over medium heat. Add the cooked rice, breaking up clumps with the back of a wooden spoon or your fingers as you add it. Stir the rice in the oil to evenly coat the rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add the soy sauce (and fish sauce, if using). Stir to coat evenly and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Add the veggies, protein, and egg back to the rice. Stir to make an even mixture.

6. Remove the rice to a bowl or dish. Sprinkle with green onions or toppings of your choice.