Imagine transforming simple leftover rice into a mouthwatering, aromatic side dish that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! This Basic Garlic Fried Rice is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few quick techniques, you'll create a dish so delicious and easy, it'll become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Ensure the rice is cold and preferably day-old, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely, creating uniform small pieces to ensure even flavor distribution throughout the rice.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté quickly, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cook for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure even heating and coating with oil and garlic.
- Drizzle soy sauce evenly over the rice, continuing to stir and toss the rice to distribute the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking and stirring for 5-7 minutes, allowing the rice to develop slightly crispy edges and absorb the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve hot immediately as a side dish or base for other recipes.
Tips
- Rice Temperature Matters: Always use cold, day-old rice to prevent mushiness and achieve those coveted crispy edges.
- Garlic is King: Mince garlic finely and watch it like a hawk - golden and fragrant is perfect, burnt is a disaster.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Use a wok or large skillet and keep the heat medium-high to get that restaurant-style sear.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure rice has enough space to crisp up instead of steaming.
- Soy Sauce Technique: Drizzle evenly and stir constantly to distribute flavor and prevent burning.
- Bonus Flavor Hack: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of white pepper.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
