Thai Veggie Ribbon Fried Rice – Quick 20-Minute Stir Fry

Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons: A Delightful Asian-Inspired Dish

Overview

Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings together the bold flavors of Thai cuisine with the fresh, colorful appeal of vegetable ribbons. This quick and easy recipe, featured on lovewithrecipes.com, is perfect for a speedy yet satisfying meal, making it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners or a delightful lunch. It’s a versatile recipe that combines the subtle sweetness of honey and peanut butter with the tangy zest of lime juice, all beautifully balanced by the aromatic herbs of basil and mint. The result is a dish that not only looks stunning but also delivers a rich, layered taste that is sure to impress.

Recipe Breakdown

• Name: Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Description: Make and share this Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
• Category: Rice
• Keywords: Vegetable, Thai, Asian, < 30 Mins, Stove Top, Stir Fry
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 196.5 kcal

Ingredients and Nutritional Information

Ingredients

1. 1 Carrot – Peeled and cut into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler.
2. 1 Leek – Thoroughly cleaned and sliced into thin ribbons.
3. 1/2 Cup Snow Peas – Trimmed and sliced into thin strips.
4. 2 Cups Cooked Rice – Preferably jasmine or any long-grain rice for the best texture.
5. Juice of 2 Limes – Freshly squeezed for a zesty kick.
6. 1 Tablespoon Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness.
7. 1 Tablespoon Peanut Butter – Creamy for richness and depth.
8. 1/4 Cup Fresh Basil or Mint – Chopped, adds a fresh herbaceous note.
9. Optional: Hot Pepper Sauce – Adjust according to your spice preference.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 196.5 kcal
• Fat: 4.6 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.9 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 40 mg
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 1.7 g
• Sugars: 3.9 g
• Protein: 4.1 g

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables

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   • Set a strainer in the sink and place the carrot ribbons, leek ribbons, and snow pea strips in it.
   • Pour boiling water over the vegetables for about 12 seconds to blanch them lightly. This helps in softening the vegetables and enhancing their vibrant colors.
   • Immediately set the vegetables aside to drain.

2. Prepare the Stir Fry

   • In a large nonstick skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. You can use vegetable oil or a neutral oil of your choice.
   • Add the prepared vegetables, garlic (if using), and cooked rice to the skillet.
   • Sauté the mixture, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through and fragrant, which should take about 4 minutes.
   • Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the ingredients in two batches to ensure even cooking.

3. Mix the Sauce

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, honey, hot pepper sauce (if you like it spicy), peanut butter, and chopped basil or mint.
   • This mixture creates a sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.

4. Combine and Serve

   • Pour the sauce over the rice and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
   • Toss everything well to combine, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
   • Serve the fried rice hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Tips and Variations

1. Rice Choice: Use day-old rice if possible, as it tends to be drier and less sticky, which is ideal for fried rice. Freshly cooked rice can be used but ensure it’s slightly cooled to avoid clumping.

2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini ribbons, or broccoli florets. The key is to keep the vegetables thinly sliced for even cooking.

3. Protein Additions: For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu. These can be sautéed before the vegetables and set aside, then mixed in with the rice at the end.

4. Peanut Butter Substitute: For a nut-free version, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini, which will still provide a creamy texture and rich flavor.

5. Herb Choices: Both basil and mint add distinct flavors; basil gives a sweet and slightly peppery taste, while mint provides a fresh and cooling effect. You can use either or a combination depending on your preference.

6. Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Thai cucumber salad or a light, tangy slaw. It can also be served with a dollop of sriracha or a drizzle of soy sauce for extra flavor.

Health Benefits

• Low in Fat: With only 4.6 grams of fat per serving, this dish is relatively low in fat, making it a healthier option compared to traditional fried rice recipes that may use more oil or butter.
• Rich in Fiber: The inclusion of vegetables like carrots, leeks, and snow peas contributes to a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
• Protein Content: While primarily a vegetable-based dish, the peanut butter adds a small amount of protein, and additional protein sources can be incorporated if desired.

Culinary Notes

• Flavor Profile: The harmony of sweet honey, creamy peanut butter, and zesty lime juice creates a rich, balanced flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting.
• Visual Appeal: The colorful ribbons of vegetables not only add nutritional value but also enhance the dish’s aesthetic appeal, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Review Highlights

• Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
• Review Count: 2 reviews
• Comments: Reviewers appreciated the quick preparation time and the fresh, vibrant flavors. Some suggested adding more spices or herbs to intensify the taste.

Conclusion

Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons is a delightful and versatile recipe that marries the fresh, crisp textures of vegetable ribbons with the comforting, familiar elements of fried rice. It’s a dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and is perfect for those who appreciate quick, healthy, and flavorful meals. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to bring the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your table.

Enjoy making this delicious Thai Fried Rice with Vegetable Ribbons, and don’t forget to share your culinary creation with friends and family!