Budget-Friendly Savory Rice Bowl with Veggies and Eggs

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (or any frozen vegetable mix)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or Sriracha for spice

Instructions

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff and let it cool slightly while preparing the other ingredients.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until carrots soften slightly. Then mix in frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the empty side and crack in the eggs. Scramble gently until just cooked through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the veggies and eggs. Pour soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture. Toss everything together well and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to blend. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
6. Divide the rice bowl mixture into serving bowls. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and optional red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
7. Serve immediately as a budget-friendly, filling meal that can be easily customized.

Chef tips

• Use leftover rice if you have it to save cooking time and prevent mushy texture.
• Substitute any seasonal or leftover vegetables you have—bell peppers, zucchini, or cabbage work well.
• For a vegan version, omit eggs and add extra tofu or chickpeas for protein.
• Toast the sesame seeds lightly and sprinkle on top for added crunch and flavor.