With the economy the way it is, everyone is cutting back on eating out — but that doesn't mean your taste buds have to suffer. Mark Bittman, New York Times food writer and author of “How to Cook Everything” and “Food Matters,” shares his easy-to-make fried rice recipe and tasty tips.
Recipe: Impromptu fried rice (on this page)
Put 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over high heat. A minute later, add the scallions and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to brown, about 3 minutes. Lower the heat if the mixture starts to brown too quickly. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl.
Add the green beans or asparagus and cook, again over high heat, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and just tender, about 5 minutes. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables. If you're using the peas, drain them if necessary and add them, along with the bean sprouts (if you're using them), to the skillet; cook, shaking the skillet, for about a minute, or until steaming. Add them to the bowl, too.
Put the remaining oil in the skillet, followed by the garlic and ginger. Just a few seconds later, begin to add the rice, a little at a time, using a spatula to break up the clumps, and toss it with the oil. When all the rice is added, make a well in its center and break the eggs into it if you're using them; scramble them a bit with the spatula, then stir to incorporate them into the rice.
Return the vegetables to the pan and use the spatula to fold everything until combined. Add the wine and cook, still folding, for about a minute. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, then taste and add salt and pepper if necessary. Turn off the heat, stir in the cilantro, and serve.
Quick vegetable fried grains: Instead of the rice, use quinoa, cracked wheat, oat groats or large-kernel grains like wheat berries or barley. Just make sure they're relatively dry before starting.
Other ingredients to try in fried rice:
Grated cabbage
Chopped carrots
Minced hot chilies
Snow peas or snap peas
Peeled shrimp or squid
Bits of smoked sausage or ham, or cooked pork or chicken
Makes: 4 servings; Time: 20 minutes, with cooked rice
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