Easy Vegan Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout)

Quick and easy vegan fried rice with colorful veggies and leftover jasmine rice. A healthy, plant-based twist on your favorite takeout!

How to Make Fast and Flavorful Easy Vegan Fried Rice

Ingredients

2 cups Leftover Cooked Rice (jasmine or long grain, preferably cold, day-old rice works best)

2 Tablespoons Neutral Oil (like avocado or grapeseed oil)

1/2 cup Diced Onion

2 Cloves Garlic, minced

1/2 cup Carrot, finely diced

1/2 cup Frozen Peas (or corn, edamame, etc.)

1/2 cup Chopped Green Onions (optional but tasty)

2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (gluten-free)

1 tsp Toasted Sesame Oil (or to taste)

1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric or Curry Powder (optional, for color and flavor)

Salt and Pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

Scrambled Tofu or Just Egg

Chopped Baked Tofu or TVP Crumbles

A handful of Chopped Spinach or Kale

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes or Sriracha for heat

This fried rice is one of those recipes I go back to over and over again. It’s fast, uses whatever veggies I have in the fridge, and always tastes like comfort in a bowl. The best part? It’s the perfect way to revive leftover rice—just a splash of sesame oil and soy sauce and it transforms into something crave-worthy.

I love pairing it with crispy tofu or just eating it straight out of the pan when I’m in a hurry. It’s a real weeknight hero in my kitchen.

Instructions

If your rice is clumpy, break it up with a fork or your fingers so it’s loose and easier to fry.

Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly golden.

Add the garlic and carrots, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes. If using firm veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, add them now too.

Toss in the peas and cook for another minute.

Add the rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, letting it get slightly crispy in some spots. Press it into the pan to crisp up, then stir.

Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional turmeric or curry powder. Stir to evenly coat everything. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

Fold in green onions and any protein or greens you’re using. Cook for another minute.

Remove from heat and serve hot. Top with a squeeze of lime, extra sesame seeds, or chili flakes if desired!

Quick Tips

Cold rice is key! Warm or freshly made rice turns mushy.

Want a little sweetness? Add a tiny splash of maple syrup or hoisin sauce.

Want it spicy? Add chopped chilies or a spoonful of sambal.