All of us wish for good health in 2022 and dietary considerations are a good place to start. Continue to ring in the New Year with a rice ring, filled with fresh stir-fried vegetables! Steamed rice works best, as it will mold to the shape of the ring to hold its shape. Since you want to serve it hot, plate the ring in a heat resistant dish. Also, individual rice rings are impacting and work well, too. You will need a wok pan to make this dish. For the stir-fry, prep the vegetables in advance to save cooking time. Wash and diagonally slice carrots, celery, and yellow squash. Broccoli florets work well, also. Bok choy holds up well in a wok and it provides a dark leafy taste and color to your vegetable mix. Snow peas are an additional “pop” of variety, just be sure to remove the string on the leaf in advance. Only use a small amount of oil on high heat. Begin with the vegetables that require the longest cooking time such as the carrots. The vegetables are cooked in short amount of time, reaching the brightest color enhancement. Fresh ginger can be added at the end of the last toss to develop the flavor. The sauce of your choice can be mixed and tossed with the vegetables, or served on the side. Another option is to provide a selection of sauces for your family. Favorite concepts include sweet and sour sauce, any vinaigrette sauce, any citrus sauce, or soy sauce glaze. Ladle the cooked vegetables to the center of the rice ring. The rice ring, with these outstanding vegetables, will send a resounding message that 2022 is most special as you and your family gather ‘round your table. © Kelly McBride Loft