Why this bean sprout fried rice is so good
- Crunch: sprouts added at the end stay crisp.
- Fast: 15 minutes with leftover rice.
- Flexible: use any vegetables or protein you have.
Mung bean vs soybean sprouts
| Mung bean sprouts | Soybean sprouts | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Crisp, juicy | Crunchy, with a firm yellow bean head |
| Flavour | Mild | Nutty |
| Cooking | 2 minutes | Needs fuller cooking, about 5 minutes |
Read our guide to bean sprouts for more.
Bean sprout fried rice tips
- High heat gives fried rice its toasty flavour.
- Don't overload the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
- Season at the end so the soy sauce doesn't burn.
Grow your own bean sprouts
- Mung beans: soak 6 to 8 hours, rinse twice a day, ready in 2 to 4 days. See mung bean seed guide.
- Soybeans: see how to grow soybean sprouts.
For another quick dinner, try the mung bean sprout stir-fry.
Bean Sprout Fried Rice With Mixed Vegetables
Vegetarian · Asian
Ingredients
Fried rice
- 3 cups (about 450 g) cooked rice, preferably cold and a day old
- 2 cups (about 200 g) mung bean or soybean sprouts, rinsed and dried
- 2 tbsp neutral oil, divided
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (about 140 g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 scallions, sliced
Sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce or mushroom sauce (optional)
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- Pinch of white pepper
Method
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Scramble the eggs until just set. Move them to a plate.
- Add the remaining oil and the garlic. Stir for 15 seconds.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add the rice. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until hot and slightly toasty.
- Add the sprouts and scallions. Toss for 2 minutes until the sprouts are hot through.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, pepper and eggs. Toss to combine and serve.
Notes
- Soybean sprouts need full cooking. If using them, blanch for 5 minutes first, or stir-fry a little longer.
- Cold rice is key. Fresh rice turns mushy. Spread fresh rice on a tray and chill it for an hour if needed.
- Add protein: tofu, chicken or shrimp.
Seeds in this article
Frequently asked questions
When do you add bean sprouts to fried rice?
Near the end, for about 2 minutes. That keeps them crunchy while heating them through.
Can I use soybean sprouts in fried rice?
Yes. Soybean sprouts must be well cooked, so blanch them for about 5 minutes first or stir-fry them a few minutes longer than mung bean sprouts.
Why is my fried rice mushy?
Fresh, warm rice is too moist. Use day-old cold rice, and keep the heat high.
Can I make bean sprout fried rice vegan?
Yes. Skip the eggs, use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce, and add crumbled tofu for protein.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
