Fried Brown Rice and Vegetables

Even if you're a fan of Chinese restaurant-style fried rice, you'll find it strangely bland and unsatisfying after trying this hearty and colourful fried brown rice recipe at home. Packed with vitamins and minerals, you can add even more vegetables as desired; for example, add some sliced celery or chopped cabbage at the same time as the mushrooms go in.

If you're not using a wok, fry the egg in a small frying pan and the rest of the ingredients in a large stainless steel saucepan.

Fried brown rice and vegetables

3/4 cups brown rice
2 large egg
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
4 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1 bunch green onions, sliced, both white and green parts
2 tablespoons tamari sauce
1/8 cup dry red wine
dash of dry vermouth (optional)
1/2 cup frozen green peas, defrosted

Rinse the brown rice and soak overnight in a small saucepan in 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 30 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and refrigerate for at least an hour in a covered bowl.

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of the sesame oil in a large wok over medium heat. Lightly beat the egg and pour into the pan. Cook without stirring until the egg is dry. Remove to a plate and cut into small strips. Set aside.

Wipe down the wok with paper towel and return to the heat. Add the remaining sesame oil. When the oil is hot, add the onions and carrots and stir fry for 2 minutes.

Add the mushrooms, garlic and the white parts of the green onions and continue to stir for about 5 more minutes, or until the mushroom juices are flowing.

Stir in the cooked rice, tamari sauce, wine and vermouth (if using) and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15 or 20 minutes or until the liquid has boiled away and the rice is sticky.

Toss in the green parts of the green onions, peas and egg and stir to mix. Remove from the heat and serve while hot, with additional tamari sauce if desired.

Serves 6 to 8.