My grandparents grew up during the Great Depression and learned at an early age that nothing should ever be wasted. They raised 5 children and passed down many of their smart and frugal ways down through the generations! They recycled, had solar panels, reused bags for the grocery store (before reusable bags were a thing), composted for their garden, and even washed and reused Ziploc bags (even though they smartly preferred to save leftovers in glass containers).
Everyone who knew my grandmother valued her cooking and baking skills (see her Chicken Salad recipe), and if I could perfect her pie crust, I would probably weigh 500 lbs! My grandfather also liked to dabble in the kitchen. I have seen him make meatloaf with every leftover vegetable they had in the refrigerator! It may not have tasted the best, but nothing was wasted.
My grandparents’ frugal ways live on in me. I’m a sucker for a bargain and hate to waste anything, especially food. Maybe it was hearing about all of the starving kids across the world while I was growing up and not wanting to finish my plate, or maybe I’ve actually learned the value of a dollar and don’t want to spend more than necessary, but I try to stretch my money wherever possible.
Making fried rice is my favorite “clean out the fridge” meal. It’s quick, easy, and everyone likes it! As you look at the recipe, feel free to adjust it to whatever meat and vegetables you have on hand!
Delicious “Clean Out The Fridge” Meal!
Easy Fried Rice
Ever wonder what to do with all of those leftover meat and veggies? Try this simple and delicious fried rice.
Ingredients
– 4 cups cooked rice
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon butter
– 2 to 3 cups chopped vegetables, like carrots, broccoli, peas (whatever you have on hand) or Frozen Mixed Vegetables
– 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1-2 cups of cooked pork, chicken, or beef, cut into small, bite-size pieces
– 2 Tablespoons Chicken Broth
– 2 Tablespoons Light Oil, like sesame, olive or grapeseed
– 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce (or more, to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Garnish
– Sesame Seeds
– Green Onion, chopped
– Cashews
Directions
- Cook rice according to directions if not already cooked.
- Heat skillet over medium heat and add butter. When butter is melted, swirl to coat pan. Add beaten egg and cook until egg is set (like an omelet). Place cooked egg on cutting board. Cool slightly, and cut into small pieces.
- Saute vegetables, including onions and garlic, if using. If vegetables are already cooked, heat in skillet. Add meat and heat through.
- Mix rice with chicken broth, oil, soy sauce, and ginger in rice cooker or large pot. Add veggie and meat mixture and toss until well-combined.
- Add chopped eggs and serve with garnish of sesame seeds, chopped green onion and/or cashews.
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