Cookbook:Riz Gras (West African Fried Rice)

Riz Gras (West African Fried Rice)
Category	Rice recipes
Difficulty

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Riz gras is a popular and flavorful rice dish enjoyed in West Africa. This versatile recipe typically consists of cooked rice stir-fried with an array of vegetables, meats, and aromatic spices. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers, etc.), diced
• 1 cup cooked meat (chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu; optional), diced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt
• Chopped green onions

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Bowls for ingredient preparation
• Whisk (for beating eggs)
• Stovetop

Procedure

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, add the rinsed rice and the appropriate amount of water, following the package instructions.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for the recommended cooking time (usually around 15–20 minutes or as per package instructions).
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
5. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in the skillet or wok over medium heat.
6. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the pan, and scramble them until cooked through.
7. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan, and set them aside.
8. In the same skillet or wok, add more vegetable oil if needed, and heat it over medium-high heat.
9. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
10. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked meat (if using) to the skillet, and stir-fry until they are tender and heated through.
11. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry with the vegetables and meat until everything is well combined.
12. Pour the soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture and mix well to evenly coat the rice.
13. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Drizzle the sesame oil over the fried rice and give it a final toss to enhance the flavor.
14. Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, and prepared scrambled eggs.
15. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy it hot.