Cookbook:Riz Gras (West African Fried Rice)

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.