Garlic Fried Rice is a savory, aromatic side dish that’s packed with flavor and crispy garlic goodness. This dish is quick to prepare, making it the perfect complement to any meal. Whether you’re craving a comforting side or a tasty snack, this easy recipe using leftover rice takes less than 20 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes

• Restaurant-quality taste from the comfort of your kitchen

• Quick and easy side dish

• Bursting with crispy, golden garlic flavor

• Versatile and pairs with many Asian and non-Asian dishes alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 6 large cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice

• 1 scallion, chopped

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce

• ¼ to ½ teaspoon salt

• ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Heat oil in a medium-sized sauté pan. Add chopped garlic and ⅛ teaspoon salt, cooking over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown. Remove the garlic from the pan, leaving the garlic-infused oil behind.

2. In the same pan, scramble the egg until partially cooked.

3. Add the cooked rice, chopped scallion, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and remaining salt. Stir-fry over high heat, mixing well.

4. Toss in the fried garlic and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce, if desired.

5. Garnish with extra chopped scallions and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3

• Prep Time: 8 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, toss in some veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers while stir-frying.

• Protein boost: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more filling main dish.

• Spicy twist: Spice it up by adding chili flakes or chopped fresh chili during the stir-frying process.

• Vegan version: Skip the egg and use a plant-based substitute to keep the dish vegan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a small drizzle of oil, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

How can I avoid making my garlic burnt or bitter?

To prevent burnt garlic, always cook it over medium heat and remove it from the pan once it turns golden brown. Overcooking garlic can lead to a bitter taste, so it’s essential to monitor it carefully.

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of leftover rice?

While it’s best to use cooled, leftover rice for the best texture, you can use freshly cooked rice. Just make sure to let it cool down a bit before using it, as freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and might result in soggy fried rice.

Can I use other oils instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like canola oil or peanut oil. Some people prefer sesame oil for a nutty flavor, but it can be quite strong, so use it sparingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

What type of rice is best for garlic fried rice?

Long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati, is recommended for the best texture. The grains are firmer and separate easily when fried.

Can I make garlic fried rice in advance?

It’s best to make garlic fried rice fresh for optimal flavor, but if you need to, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge.

How do I make my fried rice crispy?

To get crispy bits, make sure your rice is thoroughly cooled before frying. Stir the rice constantly and let it sit in the pan for a bit without stirring to develop crispy edges.

What can I serve with garlic fried rice?

Garlic fried rice pairs well with a variety of dishes like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even simple stir-fried vegetables. It’s also a great side for dishes like Bang Bang Chicken or Thai curry.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, if you prefer to avoid soy sauce, you can substitute it with coconut aminos or even fish sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze garlic fried rice?

Yes, you can freeze garlic fried rice. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Garlic Fried Rice is an incredibly versatile and flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with the rich taste of crispy garlic. Whether you’re using it as a side for Asian meals or just craving a quick, savory snack, this dish is sure to satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of technique, you can enjoy restaurant-quality fried rice right at home!