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Imagine a dish that brings together wholesome nutrition, vibrant colors, and an irresistible savory flavor, all in one bowl. The Best Quinoa Fried Rice is exactly that—a delightful twist on the classic fried rice you know and love, swapping traditional rice for protein-packed quinoa. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends. Each bite bursts with the fresh crunch of veggies, the silkiness of eggs, and the comforting umami from soy and sesame, making this recipe an instant favorite that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Best Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to create the Best Quinoa Fried Rice is easier than you think. The ingredients are straightforward and play their part perfectly—each adding a special touch to the taste, texture, or color of this vibrant dish.

3 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for sautéing and frying.
2 eggs, beaten: Adds fluffy, tender protein that binds the dish.
2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped: Brings sweetness and crunch to every bite.
1 small onion, chopped: Offers a mild sharpness that enhances overall flavor.
1/2 cup peas, frozen: Delivers a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all components.
4 cups quinoa, cooked and cooled: The star ingredient, a protein-packed alternative to rice.
3 green onions, finely sliced: Adds freshness and mild bite to finish the dish.
3-4 tablespoons soy sauce, adjust to taste: Offers a savory, salty punch that ties everything together.
2 teaspoons optional oyster sauce: Gives extra umami for a richer depth (totally optional!).
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, toasted: Adds a nutty, aromatic flourish for that authentic touch.

How to Make Best Quinoa Fried Rice

Step 1: Scramble the Egg

Start by heating just half a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it fully melts. Crack in the beaten eggs and cook slowly, stirring often to form soft, fluffy curds that melt in your mouth. Once cooked, set the scrambled eggs aside so they’re ready to join the rest of the dish at the perfect moment.

Step 2: Saute Vegetables

Next, add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once it’s warmed through, toss in the diced carrots, chopped onion, peas, and the finely minced garlic. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper to wake up those flavors. Let the vegetables soften and mingle in the pan for about five minutes—this step creates the base that makes every bite satisfying and colorful.

Step 3: Fry the Quinoa

Turn up the heat to high and melt the remaining one and a half tablespoons of butter. When the butter is ready, quickly add in the cooked quinoa, green onions, soy sauce, and the optional oyster sauce. Stir everything continuously to evenly coat the quinoa and prevent sticking, frying for about three minutes to develop a slight crispness and deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Combine with Egg and Add Sesame Oil

Now it’s time to bring it all together—fold the scrambled eggs back into the skillet with the quinoa and veggies. Stir to combine, then drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the mixture and give it one last toss. The sesame oil brings a wonderfully fragrant, nutty finish that really lifts the dish before you turn off the heat.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your fresh, steaming Best Quinoa Fried Rice to bowls or plates and serve right away. You’re in for a heartwarming experience where every forkful bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors, textures, and a satisfying depth that makes this recipe truly shine.

How to Serve Best Quinoa Fried Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped fresh cilantro instantly amps up the presentation and adds additional layers of crunch and aroma to your quinoa fried rice. A few thin slices of red chili or a drizzle of sriracha can spice things up beautifully for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with garlic stir-fried greens like bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, try serving alongside grilled chicken or tofu for protein diversity and extra satisfaction.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this for guests or want to wow your family, try shaping the quinoa fried rice in a small bowl before unmolding it onto a plate for a restaurant-style touch. Adding a lime wedge on the side also invites a fresh squeeze of citrus to brighten the whole dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Best Quinoa Fried Rice in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect meal prep option that won’t lose its deliciousness.

Freezing

You can freeze quinoa fried rice by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. For best taste and texture, consume within a month. When frozen, this meal remains a convenient and nourishing option for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by warming in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to re-fluff and distribute heat evenly. Alternatively, microwave it covered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming without drying out the quinoa.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative though quinoa’s nutty flavor and higher protein content make it stand out in this recipe. If using rice, just ensure it’s cooked and cooled before frying to get the perfect texture.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

Oyster sauce is optional but adds a lovely umami richness. You can skip it or substitute with a splash of hoisin sauce or more soy sauce if you prefer a vegetarian version.

Can I make this vegan?

Definitely! Skip the eggs and use a plant-based butter or oil. You can also add extra tofu or edamame for protein to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

How do I prevent quinoa from sticking to the pan?

High heat, enough butter or oil, and constant stirring are key. Also, using cooled quinoa helps keep the grains separate and prevents clumping during frying.

What’s the best way to cook quinoa for fried rice?

Rinse quinoa thoroughly, then cook according to package instructions, usually in a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio. Once cooked, spread it on a tray to cool quickly and dry a bit before using for best results in fried rice.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—the Best Quinoa Fried Rice that effortlessly brings together nutrition, taste, and comfort in one colorful, satisfying dish. Once you make this at home, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for quick meals or impressive dinners. Go ahead, give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite with all the warmth and joy it brings!

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Best Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 27 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Best Quinoa Fried Rice recipe offers a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional fried rice by using protein-rich quinoa instead of white rice. It’s packed with colorful vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a savory soy sauce blend, making it a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Instructions

Scramble the Egg: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Crack an egg into the skillet and cook it until scrambled, stirring occasionally to create soft curds. Once cooked, remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and transfer to a separate plate.
Sauté Vegetables: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet and heat until melted. Add diced carrots, chopped onion, peas, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until the onion and carrots are tender.
Fry the Quinoa: Increase heat to high and add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted. Add cooked quinoa, sliced green onions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce if using. Stir well to combine and continue frying for 3 more minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
Combine with Egg and Add Sesame Oil: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. Drizzle in toasted sesame oil, stir, and then remove from heat.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the warm quinoa fried rice onto serving plates or bowls. Serve immediately and enjoy the blend of textures and savory flavors in every bite.