Fried Rice

I tried a couple recipes before I tweaked this one to my liking. :D I think it tastes just like Chinese take-out. So yummy! It's great because you can use any veggies you like; just dice them up and toss them in the pan with the rest. Another great thing: this recipe uses ingredients one usually has around the house. If you want to sweeten it, add 1 Tbsp of sugar. And I love that it works with any meat. Use as a main or side dish. Serves 4-6.

Fried Rice

2 Tbsp sesame oil
1 c mushrooms, sliced
4 stalks celery, diced OR 1 c bean sprouts
1 c frozen peas, defrosted
2 large carrots, diced
1 c cold cooked pork, chicken or shrimp, diced
2 green onions, diced
3 c cooked rice, cold
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 Tbsp olive oil (optional)
3-5 Tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp pepper

1. Heat sesame oil in large skillet or wok, between medium and med-high. Saute mushrooms for 2 minutes. Add celery or bean sprouts, peas, carrots, pork, onion and rice; cook and stir for 6 minutes.
2. Push rice to side of skillet. If mixture seems too dry, add the 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add beaten eggs; stir until eggs begin to firm then stir them into the rice mixture.
3. Stir in 3 Tbsp soy sauce, making sure to mix well. Taste a small, cooled bite. If it needs more flavor, add another Tbsp soy sauce up to 5 Tbsp (or more, if you'd like). It's important you stir the rice mixture very well each time. Serve hot.