Budget-Friendly Veggie-Packed Rice Bowl

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
3. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add diced carrot and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Stir in the thawed peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey or maple syrup.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, then pour the sauce over the mixture. Stir well to combine and heat for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top if using.
8. Divide the rice bowl into serving bowls or meal prep containers and enjoy warm or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Chef tips

• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for extra fiber and nutrients, but note cooking times will be longer.
• If you don't have fresh garlic or onion, substitute with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion flakes.
• To add protein on a budget, stir in canned chickpeas or black beans drained and rinsed during step 4.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the soy sauce mixture.