Burnt Garlic Fried Rice
Aromatic and savory fried rice with the intense, smoky flavor of crispy burnt garlic. This Indo-Chinese classic is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for using up leftover rice.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Fry the Garlic
- b.Heat sesame oil in a large wok or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat.
- c.Add all the finely chopped garlic. Sauté, stirring constantly, for 3-5 minutes until it turns a deep golden brown and becomes crispy. The key is slow and steady heat to prevent burning.
- d.Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove about two-thirds of the garlic and set it aside on a paper towel. This will be your garnish.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Vegetables
- b.Increase the heat to high in the same wok with the remaining garlic and oil.
- c.Add the spring onion whites and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the chopped carrots and french beans. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- e.Add the chopped green bell pepper and stir-fry for another minute.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Rice and Sauces
- b.Add the cooled, day-old rice to the wok. Use a spatula to gently break up any clumps.
- c.Pour the light soy sauce and rice vinegar over the rice. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Toss everything vigorously on high heat for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Fold in most of the chopped spring onion greens.
- c.Transfer the fried rice to a serving platter.
- d.Garnish generously with the reserved crispy fried garlic and the remaining spring onion greens.
- e.Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in sticky, mushy fried rice.
- 2Control the heat when frying garlic. It can go from golden brown to bitter black in seconds. Low and slow is the key.
- 3Use a wok if possible. Its shape allows for even heat distribution and makes tossing the ingredients easier.
- 4Do not overcrowd the pan. If doubling the recipe, cook in two separate batches to ensure everything stir-fries properly instead of steaming.
- 5Have all your ingredients chopped and ready ('mise en place') before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a very fast process.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Incorporate scrambled eggs, diced chicken, shrimp, or fried tofu for a more substantial meal. Cook the protein separately and add it back in with the rice.
Increase SpiceIncrease Spice
Add 1-2 finely chopped green chilies along with the vegetables, or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce with the soy sauce for extra heat.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like mushrooms, sweet corn, shredded cabbage, or broccoli florets.
Healthier GrainHealthier Grain
Substitute white rice with cooked and cooled brown rice or quinoa for a higher fiber option. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Garlic is a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly allicin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The 'burnt' or crispy frying process makes its flavor intense.
Source of Vitamins and Fiber
The variety of vegetables like carrots, beans, and capsicum provides essential vitamins (A, C, K), minerals, and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and overall health.
Provides Quick Energy
The base of rice offers a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for providing sustained energy to the body and brain.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Burnt Garlic Fried Rice (approximately 275g) contains around 375-425 calories, depending on the amount of oil and specific vegetables used.