Radish Fried Rice

I'm here to admit that radishes are one of the veggies that are always at the bottom of my produce drawer...waiting to be used. I confess that they aren't one of my favorites, but, I was determined to find a way to prepare them that changes my mind; because radishes are awesome! On a recent camping trip, I discovered how delicious sautéed radishes are and behold this recipe. The radishes add a little peppery taste and somehow buttery consistency to the dish and who doesn't love a fried rice?! 

• Halee Jones

Ingredients

• 1/2 bundle radishes*, diced into 1~cm cubes

• 2 eggs*, whisked 

• 2 cloves garlic*, minced

• 1 tbs fresh ginger, grated

• 1 cup cooked/leftover rice (it is better if the rice is a couple days old)

• 2 tbs butter

• ~ 1 tsp sesame oil (I like toasted sesame seed oil)

• ~ 1-2 tsp soy sauce

• Salt and pepper

• Optional toppings: fresh squeeze of lime, fried eggs, smashed avocado, and/or toasted sesame seeds, steamed broccoli

*These ingredients can be found at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market

Method

1. Prepare and chop all ingredients. 

2. Heat a small skillet over medium. Add 1 tbs of butter, and then the radishes. Season with salt, pepper, a dash of sesame oil, and a couple dashes of soy sauce. Sauté for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the radishes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning. 

3. Add garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for another minute or so. 

4. Add the rice to the pan along with 1/2 tbs of butter, another couple dashes of sesame oil, soy sauce and some black pepper. Taste and adjust to your preference. 

5. Smooth the rice to make a layer in the pan, let fry for about 2 minutes, and then flip. Continue to do so until the rice has reached your desired doneness. 

6. Make a few small wells for the egg, add the remaining butter and then add the egg to the pan. Reduce the pan to low and gently fold the mixture until the eggs are done.

7. Immediately remove from the heat and serve with optional toppings.