Easy Budget Rice Bowl with Veggies and Fried Egg

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed frozen veggies
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let rest covered.
2. While the rice cooks, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion, diced bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften but remain slightly crisp.
3. Add frozen peas (or mixed veggies) to the skillet, sprinkle in garlic powder, and cook an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and transfer veggies to a bowl, keeping the skillet handy.
4. In the same skillet, crack the eggs and fry over medium-low heat until whites are set but yolks remain runny or cooked to your preference. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup to create a simple sauce.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide between two bowls. Top each bowl with the sautéed vegetables and one fried egg.
7. Drizzle the soy-sesame sauce evenly over each rice bowl. Garnish with sliced green onions if using.
8. Serve immediately while warm.

Chef tips

• Use leftover cooked rice or brown rice for a heartier and fiber-rich option.
• Substitute vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
• For a vegan version, replace the fried egg with pan-fried tofu slices or a scoop of mashed chickpeas.
• If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha in the sauce.