Guyanese Vegetable Fried Rice

Fried rice is a universal favorite, a versatile dish that is loved across different cultures for its simplicity and ability to incorporate various ingredients. Guyanese vegetable fried rice stands out with its unique blend of spices and flavors, making it a hearty, colorful, and delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Let’s explore how to make the perfect Guyanese vegetable fried rice, with tips and tricks to elevate your dish. There are also different variations and vegetables that can be used. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe of vegetable fried rice!

What Makes Guyanese Fried Rice Different?

Guyanese cuisine is a beautiful fusion of African, Indian, Chinese, Amerindian, Portuguese and Creole influences, which gives its dishes a rich and diverse flavor profile. Guyanese fried rice, while sharing similarities with Chinese fried rice, has a distinct Caribbean twist. It often includes bold seasonings like thyme, garlic, and sometimes soy sauce or all-purpose seasoning. The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs makes it a vibrant and nutritious option for any meal.

Ingredients for Guyanese Vegetable Fried Rice

Before we get into the tips and tricks, here are the essential ingredients for making this flavorful fried rice:

Basic Ingredients:

• Long grain white rice or jasmine: It’s best to use leftover or day-old rice because it’s firmer and less likely to become mushy.
• Vegetables: bora(Chinese long bean), carrots, and cabbage are commonly used in Guyanese fried rice.
• Onions: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic and ginger: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor.
• Brown Sugar:  Adds a hints of sweetness which balances the dish.
• Chinese Sauce, Soy sauce and Chicken Bouillon: For that savory umami flavor.
• Green Seasoning: A key Caribbean blend that gives the fried rice a signature taste.
• Oil: Preferably vegetable or canola oil, for stir-frying the rice and veggies.
• Chinese 5 spice and black pepper: To add a spicy kick and robust flavor.
• Wiri wiri pepper (optional): For a true Caribbean heat, you can add some finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Guyanese Vegetable Fried Rice

Prepping

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Wash rice until water runs clear. Rinsing the rice grains before cooking removes excess starch, which can make the rice sticky.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

Chop your vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. You can experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or your preference. Cut bora into ¼ inch pieces and julienne or shred carrots.  Finely cut the cabbage.

Cooking

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Tip: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. You can grate them or finely mince them to infuse the oil more effectively.

Step 2: Add the Rice

Add the washed and strained rice to the pan.

Step 3: Season

Drizzle the Chinese sauce and soy sauce over the rice. Season with green seasoning, chicken bouillon powder, Chinese 5 spice, black pepper and salt to taste. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Tip: For a touch of heat, add a small amount of finely chopped wiri wiri pepper or pepper sauce.

Step 4: Steam the rice

Add water and mix to combine.  Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to low and cover pot.  Steam rice for 15 minutes if using jasmine rice and 20 minutes if using long grained white rice.

Tip: Avoid adding too much liquid or the rice will become soggy.  It is better to add too little water, than too much.  Keep hot water in an electric kettle or pot to add, if more water is needed.

Step 5: Cooling the rice

After the rice is cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet, and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before using.

Step 6: Sautee Vegetables

Add the chopped bora and carrots to the skillet and stir-fry them for about 3minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.

Tip: Avoid overcooking the vegetables so they retain their vibrant colors and texture. Stir-frying them at high heat ensures they don’t get soggy.

Step 7: Finishing the fried rice

Stir fry the rice with the vegetables for 3-5 minutes.  Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallion. 

Tip: Use a wide frying pan to fry the rice.  All it to sit for a minute or two so that the rice grains at the bottom toasts.  This gives the fried rice a smoky flavor.

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

Achieving the perfect fried rice can sometimes be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll be a pro in no time:

• Use Jasmine or Long grain white rice: This cooks quicky and makes for a fluffy fried rice.
• High Heat is Essential: Stir-frying at high heat helps the rice and vegetables retain their texture and develop a slight char, which adds depth to the dish.
• Prep Ingredients in Advance: Since fried rice cooks quickly, have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to stir-fry in batches to ensure everything gets evenly cooked.
• Customize the Vegetables: You can easily swap out the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just make sure they are cut into small, even pieces for even cooking.

Vegetable Variations for Guyanese Fried Rice

One of the great things about fried rice is how customizable it is. While these are not what is traditionally used in Guyanese fried rice, here are some vegetable options you can use in this recipe to keep things interesting:

• Broccoli: Adds a nice crunch and is packed with nutrients.
• Snap peas: Their sweetness pairs well with the savory rice.
• Corn: For a pop of sweetness and color, add some fresh or frozen corn.
• Mushrooms: For an earthy, umami flavor, add sautéed mushrooms.
• Pak choi (bok choy): For a touch of greens, this Chinese cabbage is a great addition.

Protein Additions (Optional)

• Eggs: Scramble some eggs separately and fold them into the rice for added texture and protein.
• Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb or Shrimp: These are great additions and adds even more flavor.

Fried Rice recipes to try

While vegetable fried rice is delicious, there are other variations of this dish that you can explore:

• Guyanese Chicken Fried Rice: Add seasoned, diced chicken to the recipe for a more filling dish.
• Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice: Shrimp pairs beautifully with the soy sauce and thyme, making for a luxurious twist on this classic recipe.
• House Special Fried Rice: combination of fluffy rice, chicken, shrimp and lap cheoung cooked with peas and carrots flavored with ginger, garlic and soy sauce.
• Bacon and Chicken Fried Rice: It uses fully cooked rotisserie chicken and leftover rice which cuts back on cook and prep time.  Bacon adds an extra layer of flavor to an already flavorful dish.  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and a chewier texture to the dish. Just make sure it’s cooked properly and cooled before stir-frying.  Additional water will be needed and it will take longer to cook.

2. How long does vegetable fried rice last?
You can store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry it again in a hot pan.

3. Can I freeze fried rice?
Absolutely! Fried rice freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then stir-fry it to bring it back to life

---