Best Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Best Quinoa Fried Rice recipe offers a wholesome and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Using protein-packed quinoa instead of rice creates a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 tbsp butter (for scrambled eggs)
• 2 eggs (whisked until just combined)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
• Black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 1 small onion (diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
• Salt
• 3 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
• 2 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing vegetables)
• 3 green onions (sliced, white and green parts separated)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 4 cups cooked quinoa (completely cooled)
• 1 1/2 tbsp butter (for frying quinoa)
• 3 to 4 tbsp soy sauce (start with 3 tbsp and adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble, stirring occasionally to create soft curds. Once cooked, transfer the scrambled eggs to a separate plate.
2. Step 2: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet and heat until melted. Add diced carrots, onion, peas, and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion and carrots soften.
3. Step 3: Increase heat to high and add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until melted. Quickly add the cooked quinoa, the white parts of the sliced green onions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce if using. Stir well and fry for 3 more minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix everything together. Add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
5. Step 5: Serve the quinoa fried rice warm on plates or bowls. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures!

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old quinoa or ensure it is completely cooled to avoid soggy fried rice.
• Swap oyster sauce with vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a plant-based option.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and color.
• For more heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.

Storage

Store leftover quinoa fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute cooked brown rice for quinoa. The cooking process remains the same, but quinoa offers a lighter texture and higher protein content.

Is oyster sauce necessary for flavor?

Oyster sauce adds depth and umami, but it’s optional. You can omit it or replace it with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a similar savory flavor.

Best Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 85 reviews

This Best Quinoa Fried Rice recipe offers a wholesome twist on traditional fried rice by using nutritious quinoa instead of white rice. Featuring sautéed vegetables, fluffy scrambled eggs, and flavorful seasonings like soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, this dish is a quick, protein-packed, and vibrant meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian Fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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For the scrambled egg:

• 1/2 tbsp butter
• 2 eggs (whisked until just combined)

For the sautéed vegetables:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
• 1 small onion (diced into 1/4-inch pieces)
• 3 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
• 2 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp butter (unsalted preferred)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

For the quinoa fried rice:

• 4 cups cooked quinoa (completely cooled)
• 3 green onions (sliced, white and green parts separated)
• 1 1/2 tbsp butter
• 3 to 4 tbsp soy sauce (start with 3 tbsp and add more to taste)
• 2 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions

1. Scramble the Egg: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Crack the whisked eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, to form soft curds. Once cooked through and fluffy, remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and set aside on a separate plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet and melt over medium heat. Add diced carrots, diced onion, frozen peas, and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Fry the Quinoa: Increase the heat to high and add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter, melting it completely. Quickly add the cooked quinoa, sliced green onion whites, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir thoroughly to combine, and continue frying the mixture for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
4. Combine with Egg and Add Sesame Oil: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet with the quinoa mixture. Stir everything together evenly. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the top and give a final stir. Remove the skillet from heat.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the warm quinoa fried rice to serving plates or bowls and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and savory flavors in every bite!

Notes

• Ensure quinoa is fully cooled before frying to prevent clumping and achieve a better texture.
• Oyster sauce is optional but adds extra umami depth; you can omit it for a vegetarian version and substitute with mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce.
• Use unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the dish.
• Feel free to customize vegetables or add protein like tofu or shrimp to suit your preference.
• Stir frequently during frying to avoid sticking and scorching.

Keywords: quinoa fried rice, healthy fried rice, quinoa recipe, easy stir-fry, gluten free fried rice, protein packed meal