Recipes
Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
Posted by Niel Neethling on May 24, 2024
Garlic fried rice is a flavorful twist on a classic dish. It's a simple, yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any time of the day.
This recipe combines the rich taste of minced garlic with the comforting texture of fried rice. The result is a dish that's both delicious and easy to make.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create your own garlic fried rice at home. Let's get started!
Why Garlic Fried Rice is a Must-Try
Garlic fried rice is a versatile dish. It can be a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a comforting dinner.
The star of this dish is the minced garlic. It adds a robust flavor that makes this fried rice stand out.
Moreover, this recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice. It's a practical solution that turns surplus into a tasty meal.
Lastly, garlic fried rice is a dish that you can easily customize to your liking.
Ingredients You'll Need
For this garlic fried rice recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Most of them are pantry staples, making this dish easy to whip up anytime.
Here's the list of ingredients:
2 cups of day-old rice
4 cloves of peeled Fave™ Garlic, minced
2 eggs
1 tablespoon of grated Fave™ Ginger
1 teaspoon of chile crunch
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of cooking oil
Fresh coriander and chopped spring onion for garnish
Remember, the key to a great dish is using fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it's crucial to prepare all your ingredients. This practice, known as mise en place, ensures a smooth cooking process.
Start by mincing your peeled garlic. The smaller the pieces, the more intense the flavor will be. Next, grate your ginger. This will add a subtle, spicy undertone to your fried rice.
The secret to great fried rice is using day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can result in a mushy dish. If you don't have leftover rice, cook your rice a day ahead and let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Remember, the rice should be dry and separate, not sticky. This will ensure it fries well and absorbs the flavors of the garlic and other ingredients.
Garlic is the star of this dish, so it's important to sauté it correctly. Heat your oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
The goal is to achieve a golden brown color. This will give your fried rice a rich, garlicky flavor without any bitterness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that your ingredients are ready, let's start cooking. Heat your pan or wok over high heat. This is key to achieving the "wok hei" or breath of the wok, a characteristic smoky flavor in fried rice dishes.
Add your sautéed garlic to the hot pan. Stir quickly to distribute the garlic and infuse the oil with its flavor. Next, add your day-old rice. Stir-fry the rice, making sure each grain is coated with the garlic-infused oil.
Adding Flavor with Egg, Chile Crunch, and Grated Ginger
Now it's time to add more flavors. Crack an egg into the pan and scramble it. The egg adds richness and protein to your garlic fried rice.
Next, add your chile crunch. This will give your dish a spicy kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
Finally, stir in the grated ginger. This will complement the garlic and add a refreshing note to balance the heat from the chile crunch.
Customizing Your Garlic Fried Rice
This garlic fried rice recipe is versatile. You can add vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal. For a vegan version, replace the egg with tofu or your preferred plant-based protein.
You can also experiment with different types of rice. Brown rice, for instance, can be used for a healthier version. Remember, the key is to use day-old rice for the best texture.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Garlic fried rice is best served hot, topped with green onions or sesame seeds for added crunch. A side of pickled vegetables or a clear soup can complement the rich flavors.
For a complete meal, pair it with your favorite Asian dishes. It goes well with stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or a simple omelet. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dish.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days.
To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry until hot. The flavors often deepen, making the leftovers just as delicious as when freshly cooked.