Notebook of recipes

There are some recipes that happen by accident, and then there are some that happen out of necessity.

This Beetroot Fried Rice?

A little bit of both.

It started on a weekday evening when I was staring at the fridge, wondering how to make something quick, healthy, and most importantly—kid-approved. And there it was… a small box of grated beetroot looking at me like, “Give me a chance.”

And oh, did it shine.

This recipe is for all the parents whose kids run away from veggies, for all the busy working days when you need a one-pan solution, and for all the food lovers who enjoy simple flavors with a twist.

Today, I’m sharing my Beetroot Fried Rice—vibrant, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.

⭐ 

Why This Beetroot Fried Rice Works

• It uses very few ingredients—most of which you already have.
• It’s packed with colourful veggies your kids won’t even notice they’re eating.
• It has a subtle sweetness from beetroot and a gentle tangy-spicy kick from the sauce.
• It’s perfect for tiffin boxes, weekday dinners, or as a side for your Indo-Chinese meals.

This bowl is comfort, nutrition, and flavour—all in one.

🥕 

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the Veggies:

• 1 bowl beans (chopped)
• 1 bowl capsicum (chopped)
• 1 bowl carrots (chopped)
• 2 bowls cabbage (shredded)
• Less than ½ bowl grated beetroot
• 1 tablespoon chopped ginger
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 green chili (optional, skip for kids)
• 2–3 tablespoons cold-pressed groundnut oil

For the Sauce Mixture:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons red chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons green chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 2–3 tablespoons water (to make it runny)

Other Ingredients:

• 1 Maggi Masala Magic cube (dissolved in 2–3 tbsp warm water)
• 3–4 cups pre-boiled rice (preferably cold rice)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Green onions (for garnish)

🥄 

The Story Behind the Cooking Process

The magic of this fried rice lies in layering, not just mixing.

The beetroot sits on top and gently releases its colour and sweetness during the steam phase, turning every grain of rice into a beautiful shade of pink—without staining your hands!

This recipe is all about trusting the process.

For a few minutes, you do nothing.

No stirring. No tossing.

Just let the steam do the work.

👩‍🍳 

Step-by-Step Method (With My Little Tips!)

1. Heat the Base

Heat groundnut oil in a large wok.

Once warm, add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chili.

Let them sizzle until fragrant.

Tip: This base is what gives the rice that aromatic “restaurant-style” flavour.

2. Add the Veggies

Now add your:

• Beans
• Capsicum
• Carrots
• Cabbage

Sauté on high flame for 2–3 minutes.

We’re not overcooking anything—just giving the veggies a nice toss while keeping them crunchy.

Then add the grated beetroot.

It instantly makes the dish look cheerful.

Season with:

• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything gently.

3. Add the Rice (But Don’t Mix Yet!)

Spread your pre-boiled rice evenly on top of the veggies.

Resist the urge to mix!

This technique prevents the rice from breaking and allows even flavour absorption.

4. Layer the Good Stuff

On top of the rice:

1. Add the remaining grated beetroot.
2. Pour your prepared sauce mixture evenly.
3. Add the Maggi Magic Cube stock water.

This step is the soul of the dish.

Everything slowly melts into the rice, giving you that signature aroma and flavour.

5. Let It Steam (Dum Time!)

Cover the wok with a lid and allow it to cook on low flame for 5–10 minutes.

This is when the beetroot performs its magic—colouring and flavouring every grain beautifully.

6. Final Mix & Garnish

Open the lid and enjoy the aroma!

Add chopped green onions and gently mix everything together.

Your Beetroot Fried Rice is now ready—vibrant, nutritious, and totally irresistible.

🍽️ 

Serving Suggestions

You can pair this rice with:

• Manchurian
• Hakka noodles
• Chilli paneer
• Veg gravy dishes
• Or simply enjoy it as a wholesome bowl by itself!

This rice is also incredible for:

• Kids’ lunch boxes
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Meal prep
• Healthy snacking

💡 

Why Kids Love It

The beetroot gives a natural sweetness, the rice becomes pretty pink, and the veggies blend in beautifully.

Even picky eaters find it fun to eat!

Trust me—this is a “mom-approved” and “kid-approved” recipe.

❤️ 

Final Thoughts

Every time I make this Beetroot Fried Rice, I’m reminded that healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated, and vegetables don’t need to be boring.

Sometimes, all they need is a little colour, a little flavour, and a whole lot of love.

If you try this recipe, do share a picture and tag @notebookofrecipes.

I’d love to see your colourful bowls!