Curry Fried Quinoa Rice Recipe
Looking for a vibrant and hearty dish that’s full of flavor and loaded with nutritious ingredients? Our Curry Fried Quinoa Rice is a perfect fusion of traditional Indian flavors with a modern twist. This colorful, vegetable-packed fried rice uses quinoa and brown rice as the base, making it a healthier alternative to regular fried rice, while still delivering on taste and texture. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish for lunch or as a side, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Best of all, it’s quick, easy to make, and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa (cooked beforehand) | 2 cups | Ensure quinoa is fully cooked and fluffed before use. |
| Brown Rice (cooked beforehand) | 1 cup | Use leftover rice for an even quicker prep time. |
| Carrots (Gajjar) (finely diced) | 1/2 cup | Adds a lovely crunch and sweetness. |
| Green Peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup | Fresh or frozen peas work great. |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) (diced) | 1/2 cup | Offers a sweet, slightly smoky flavor. |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig | Essential for an authentic flavor. |
| Onions (chopped) | 1 cup | Yellow or white onions are ideal. |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing the veggies and eggs. |
| Garlic (finely diced or crushed) | 1/2 tsp | Adds depth of flavor. |
| Whole Eggs | 2 | Whisked for scrambling. |
| Curry Powder | 1 tbsp | Use a mild or hot variety depending on preference. |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tsp | Adds saltiness and umami. |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1/8 tsp | Balances the savory flavors. |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust according to preference. |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste | Freshly ground for a mild kick. |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice & Quinoa:
- Begin by mixing the cooked quinoa and brown rice in a large bowl. Use your hands to break down any lumps. If needed, grease your hands lightly with some vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Set this mixture aside.
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Scramble the Eggs:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the whisked eggs and scramble them quickly to break them into small bits. Once fully cooked, transfer the scrambled eggs to a plate and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Once the oil heats up, add the garlic and curry leaves, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onions and diced red bell peppers. Continue sautéing for another 30 seconds until the onions become soft and slightly translucent.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- Toss in the diced carrots and green peas. Stir fry the mixture over high heat for 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are half-cooked but still crisp.
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Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.
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Combine the Rice & Veggies:
- Add the quinoa and rice mixture to the wok. Stir-fry everything together, making sure the rice and vegetables are well combined and heated through. The rice should absorb all the wonderful flavors from the spices and seasonings.
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Finish with Scrambled Eggs:
- Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir them into the rice mixture. Cook for another minute, allowing everything to come together in perfect harmony.
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Serve:
- Turn off the heat and transfer the curry fried quinoa rice to a serving plate. Garnish with additional curry leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with refreshing side dishes like Pumpkin Raita or Lauki Raita (Bottle Gourd Raita). The coolness of the raita complements the spiciness and richness of the fried quinoa rice, making it a perfect combination for a satisfying and balanced meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp to the stir-fry. This will turn it into a more substantial main course.
- Vegetable Substitutes: Feel free to swap out the vegetables in this recipe. Broccoli, mushrooms, or even zucchini can be used in place of the carrots and bell peppers.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the eggs and substitute with a plant-based scramble or chickpea flour mixture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Nutrients: Quinoa and brown rice are high in fiber and protein, making this a filling and nutritious dish.
- Flavorful: The combination of curry powder, soy sauce, and fresh curry leaves provides an incredible depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and aromatic.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spices to suit your preference, making it as mild or as spicy as you like.
This Curry Fried Quinoa Rice is not only a delicious and healthy meal, but it’s also quick to prepare—making it the perfect lunch option for busy days. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of India in every bite!
Keyword Ideas: Curry Fried Rice, Quinoa Fried Rice, Healthy Fried Rice, Vegetable Fried Rice, Indian Fried Rice, Vegan Fried Rice, Quick Lunch Recipes, Easy Quinoa Recipes
