Quick & Easy Veggie Fried Rice (contains eggs)

This Veggie Fried Rice recipe is quick and easy to make and incredibly budget-friendly, costing less than $5 per serving. It's a great way to use leftover rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it economical and delicious.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best) ($0.70)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ($0.10)
• 1 medium onion, diced ($0.25)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.08)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, and green beans) ($1.00)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten ($0.40)
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce ($0.30)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional) ($0.15)
• Salt and pepper to taste ($0.05)
• Optional: green onions for garnish ($0.25)

TOTAL COST FOR INGREDIENTS: $3.28 (THIS MAY VARY SLIGHTLY DEPENDING ON LOCAL PRICES AND SERVING SIZES.)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the Rice: If you're not using day-old rice, spread your freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps to dry out the rice, making it ideal for frying.
2. Cook the Veggies: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and frozen mixed vegetables, and fry until they are just thawed and warm, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Scramble the Eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the other side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs in the skillet until fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
4. Fry the Rice: Add the cold rice to the skillet. Pour the soy sauce and optional sesame oil over the top. Fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is hot and slightly crispy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more soy sauce if needed.
5. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. If using, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for garnish. Serve the fried rice hot as a fulfilling meal on its own or as a side dish.

This Veggie Fried Rice is a cost-effective meal solution and a versatile dish that you can customize based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal without breaking the bank!