Guatemalan Fried Rice
Guatemalan Fried Rice offers a flavorful, savory dish with browned rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic garlic, perfect for a hearty, comforting meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat shortening in a pan.
- Add rice and fry until nicely browned, stirring constantly.
- Add chopped onion and chopped tomato, and cook slightly.
- Pour in water and add peas, chopped green beans, finely chopped carrot, chopped green pepper, and salt.
- Cover and bring quickly to a boil.
- Lower the heat and cook about 45 minutes or until done.
- Do not stir during cooking.
- When serving, remove with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use day-old rice, as it holds up better during frying. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil or butter can be used as alternatives. Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, for added color and nutrition. Adjust salt according to taste, especially if using broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Guatemalan Fried Rice is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve with a side of fresh avocado slices or a light salad for added freshness. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Wonton Chips for a crunchy texture contrast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the fried rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to its original texture, or microwave it with a damp paper towel covering the bowl.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Guatemalan Fried Rice contains roughly 432 calories, with 6g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (200% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 776mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will take longer to cook. Adjust the water and cooking time accordingly, as brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer simmering period than white rice.
What can I substitute for the peas and green beans?
You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables or any seasonal veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. This dish is versatile, allowing you to incorporate your favorite vegetables without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that you use vegetable shortening or oil, and feel free to add more plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh for added nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).