When I first created the Coconut Veggie Fried Rice recipe, I wanted to bring together the creamy richness of coconut with the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables. I remember my initial attempts, experimenting with different combinations of veggies and seasonings. Each trial brought me closer to the perfect balance, and when I finally nailed it, I couldn’t wait to share this delightful dish with my family and friends. Coconut Veggie Fried Rice quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, not just for its taste but also for its simplicity and wholesome ingredients.
Journey to the Perfect Recipe
The journey to perfecting Coconut Veggie Fried Rice was filled with small yet significant tweaks. Initially, I tried using different types of rice and found that jasmine rice, cooked with coconut milk, gave the best texture and flavor. Adding tofu for protein and roasted cashews for a bit of crunch made each bite a delightful experience. I still recall the excitement of that first bite when everything came together harmoniously. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a story of flavors, textures, and aromas that celebrated the joy of cooking.
Sharing with Loved Ones
One of my fondest memories is sharing Coconut Veggie Fried Rice with my family during a weekend gathering. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma caught everyone’s attention as soon as I brought it to the table. As we sat down to eat, the conversations flowed effortlessly, with everyone praising the dish. My little niece, who was usually a picky eater, asked for seconds, and that’s when I knew this recipe was a winner. It’s moments like these that make cooking such a rewarding experience.
Coconut Veggie Fried Rice isn’t just about great taste; it’s also about promoting healthy eating. With a mix of fresh vegetables, protein-rich tofu, and nutrient-dense almonds, this dish is a powerhouse of nutrition. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture without overwhelming the other flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate different dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for any meal.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Coconut Veggie Fried Rice
- Tofu Preparation: Make sure to press the tofu well to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a firmer, crispier texture when baked.
- Marinating Time: Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors of the tamari sauce. For even more flavor, you can marinate it for up to 30 minutes.
- Rice Cooking Tip: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Veggie Variations: Customize the veggies based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, and carrots all work well in this dish.
- Adding Crunch: Toast the raw almonds lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the dish. This enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch.
- Garnish Options: Top the finished dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, and add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of brightness.
- Serving Suggestions: This fried rice pairs excellently with a side of steamed broccoli, a simple green salad, or a bowl of miso soup.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for best results.
Coconut Veggie Fried Rice
Dive into the delightful flavors of Coconut Veggie Fried Rice! This dish combines the creamy richness of coconut-infused rice with vibrant veggies, crispy tofu, and crunchy cashews. Perfect for a vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy-to-make, wholesome meal!
4
servings15
minutes50
minutes568
kcal10
minutes1
hour15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the tofu
1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 tablespoons tamari sauce
For the coconut rice
1 ½ cups uncooked jasmine rice
1 can light coconut milk + water to make 3 cups of liquid
For the veggies
1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
1 medium white onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
2 teaspoons turmeric powder
1 cup raw almonds
½ cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
2 teaspoons tamari sauce
- Alternative Ingredients:
Tamari sauce: Soy sauce for non-gluten-free option
Jasmine rice: Basmati rice or long-grain white rice
Avocado oil: Olive oil or sunflower oil
White onion: Red onion or shallots
Green bell pepper: Yellow or orange bell pepper
Raw almonds: Roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds
Corn kernels: Green peas or diced carrots
- Alternative Ingredients:
Tamari sauce: Soy sauce for non-gluten-free option
Jasmine rice: Basmati rice or long-grain white rice
Avocado oil: Olive oil or sunflower oil
White onion: Red onion or shallots
Green bell pepper: Yellow or orange bell pepper
Raw almonds: Roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds
Corn kernels: Green peas or diced carrots
Directions
- Preparing the Tofu – Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C). Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into small cubes and marinate in tamari sauce for about 10 minutes until absorbed. Arrange the cubes on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cooking the Coconut Rice – In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice with coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Sautéing the Veggies – Heat avocado oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Sauté diced white onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add chopped green bell pepper and cook until onions are browned and peppers are tender.
- Adding Aromatics – Stir in finely chopped garlic, grated ginger, and turmeric powder. Sauté for an additional minute to release the flavors.
- Combining Ingredients – Mix in cooked rice, baked tofu cubes, raw almonds, corn kernels, and tamari sauce. Stir well to combine and heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Serving – Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Coconut Veggie Fried Rice!
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- baking sheet
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- vegetable peeler
- Nonstick Pan
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 568kcal
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 467mg
- Potassium: 631mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 720IU
- Vitamin C: 33mg
- Calcium: 104mg
- Iron: 6mg
FAQ- Coconut Veggie Fried Rice
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with basmati rice or long-grain white rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili when sautéing the garlic and ginger for an extra kick.
Is there a way to make this dish nut-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the raw almonds with sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely.
Can I prepare the tofu ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the tofu up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add it to the fried rice just before serving and heat through.
What can I use instead of tamari sauce?
If you’re not concerned about gluten, you can use regular soy sauce. For a soy-free option, coconut aminos work well.
