If you’re searching for a knockout way to transform plain rice into a dish that’s savory, aromatic, and packed with personality, Garlic Fried Rice is your ticket! This humble yet irresistible staple has a special spot in my kitchen, thanks to its bold garlicky fragrance, golden edges, and satisfying bite. It’s the kind of recipe that comes together quickly but never fails to impress—whether you’re anchoring a family dinner or simply jazzing up leftovers. Plus, Garlic Fried Rice is endlessly adaptable, making it the sort of meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic Fried Rice is truly in its simplicity. Every ingredient here pulls its own weight, delivering just the right combination of flavor, color, and texture for the ultimate comfort dish.
- Jasmine Rice: Day-old, cold rice gives the best non-sticky, slightly crispy texture—always try to plan ahead!
- Vegetable Oil: Neutral in flavor and perfect for high-heat stir-frying; it helps the rice toast up beautifully.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): The star of the show, delivering upfront flavor and irresistible aroma—don’t skimp!
- Soy Sauce: Adds a rich, salty umami depth that ties everything together.
- Sesame Oil: Just a teaspoon is enough to infuse the dish with that nutty, unmistakably Asian touch.
- Green Onions: Offer a burst of freshness and pop of color for a restaurant-worthy finish.
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and lift all the flavors.
- Optional Garnish (Fried Egg or Scallions): Take it over the top with a sunny fried egg or extra chopped green onions for even more flair!
How to Make Garlic Fried Rice
Step 1: Prep and Heat
Start by gathering all your ingredients and having them chopped and ready to go. Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. The key here is to ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle the garlic without burning it—watch closely!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add your finely minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic turns golden and becomes wonderfully fragrant. This step is where most of the magic happens, but be vigilant so the garlic doesn’t cross over into bitter territory.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Tip your cold, day-old jasmine rice into the pan. Immediately start breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes, making sure all the rice gets a little contact with the pan for those coveted crispy bits.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
Drizzle in your soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir everything vigorously so each grain of rice is evenly coated and seasoned. Now’s the time to sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking—taste as you go and adjust until it’s just right.
Step 5: The Finishing Touch
Add the sliced green onions and toss for just another 30 seconds so they stay vibrant and crisp. Serve your Garlic Fried Rice hot, and if you’re feeling extra, top it off with a fried egg or a flurry of more scallions. Pure comfort!
How to Serve Garlic Fried Rice
Garnishes
That gorgeous fried egg on top isn’t just for looks—it oozes richness into the rice! Or sprinkle extra scallions right before serving for a fresh, zesty contrast to the savory base. A few toasted sesame seeds or crispy shallots can add more texture and color too.
Side Dishes
Garlic Fried Rice effortlessly pairs with pretty much any Asian-inspired main you love: think grilled chicken satay, teriyaki salmon, spicy tofu, or a crisp vegetable stir-fry. It holds its own as a side but can steal the show as a midnight snack or brunch base, especially when topped with a runny egg.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon the rice into individual bowls for a cozy vibe or press into a ramekin and invert for a neat restaurant-style mound. For gatherings, try serving on a big platter scattered with fresh herbs, or tuck Garlic Fried Rice into lettuce cups for a fun handheld bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Fried Rice keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
If you want to stretch your batch even further, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Garlic Fried Rice freezes surprisingly well for up to a month. To prevent clumping, spread it out and flatten before sealing so it thaws and reheats evenly.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a pan with a splash of water or a drizzle of oil, stirring as you go. The microwave also works in a pinch: cover loosely and heat in short bursts, fluffing in between. Either method brings the grains right back to life!
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice for Garlic Fried Rice?
Day-old rice is best because it’s drier and less sticky, but if you’re in a rush, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chill it quickly to replicate the effect—you want those grains to be separate, not mushy!
What’s the secret to making my fried rice crispy?
Letting the rice sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute or two during stir-frying allows it to get those irresistible crispy bits. Don’t overcrowd the pan and use high enough heat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check any other seasonings you may want to add. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add protein to my Garlic Fried Rice?
Absolutely—stir in cooked shrimp, diced chicken, tofu, or even bits of pork or beef. Just make sure any extra proteins are cooked before you add them to the rice.
Can I use other types of rice besides jasmine?
Yes! While jasmine rice gives the most fragrant, perfect texture, any long-grain rice will work. Avoid short or sticky rice, which won’t give you that signature fried rice feel.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t made Garlic Fried Rice at home yet, this is your sign to do it! It’s fast, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you serve it as a side or make it the star, you’re in for a seriously delicious treat—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your kitchen!
Print
Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Fried Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make Asian side dish that is perfect for a quick meal. With the aromatic essence of garlic and the umami richness of soy sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Additional:
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: fried egg or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown and fragrant.
- Stir-Fry Rice: Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up clumps. Stir-fry until heated through and lightly crispy.
- Season and Garnish: Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add green onions and stir briefly. Serve hot, optionally topped with a fried egg or scallions.
Notes
- For best results, use cold, day-old rice to prevent clumping.
- You can add vegetables like peas or diced carrots for extra texture, or stir in cooked protein like shrimp or chicken for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
