Garlic fried rice is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the savoury flavours of garlic and soy sauce with the satisfying texture of well-cooked white rice.
This delicious rice dish, crafted by our in-house Dainty chef Jonathan Cheung, is easy to follow and perfect for a quick meal. It can serve as a standalone dish or a side to complement your favourite rice recipe, making it a must-try for any garlic lover.
Cultural Variations of the Garlic Fried Rice
Garlic fried rice is a versatile dish enjoyed in various forms across different cultures. While the basic ingredients—garlic, rice, and soy sauce—remain consistent, regional twists add extra flavours and textures.
Filipino Style
In the Philippines, garlic fried rice, known as “sinangag,” is a breakfast staple. It often incorporates leftover rice and is commonly paired with fried eggs and a side of protein like cured meats or fish. The Filipino version tends to be simpler, focusing on the robust flavour of garlic with a hint of salt, making it a comforting and hearty start to the day.
Japanese Style
Japanese garlic fried rice, or “garlic chahan,” features short-grain rice, which is stickier than the long-grain varieties used in other cultures. This version might include additional ingredients such as diced vegetables, seafood, or even a splash of sake or mirin for additional taste and depth. The Japanese style often emphasizes a delicate balance of flavours, with a slightly crispy texture achieved by allowing the rice to sit undisturbed in the hot pan for a brief period.
Thai Style
Thai garlic fried rice recipe stands out for its bold and vibrant flavours. In Thailand, jasmine rice is the preferred choice, offering a fragrant and slightly floral note. Thai versions often include fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, or even a squeeze of lime juice. Some variations may also incorporate fish sauce for an extra layer of umami, creating a dish that is both aromatic and richly flavoured.
Dainty Chef’s recipe
The recipe
Garlic Fried Rice
Step 1
To prepare the rice, cook according to package instructions. When done, pour onto a large baking sheet, spread out, and allow cooling. Alternatively, use 2 cups of day-old rice.
Step 2
Heat a large wok or frying pan over high heat. When hot, add in the oil and the sliced green beans. Sauté for 30 seconds and add in the garlic. Cook for 20 seconds more.
Step 3
Make a small well in the centre of the pan and pour in the egg. Scramble lightly, and when the egg is ½ to ¾ cooked, add the cooled rice into the pan and immediately stir together.
Step 4
Continue cooking over high heat until the rice is warmed back up. If the rice is clumped together, gently press out the clumps using the back of a spoon, and it’s cooking.
Step 5
When the rice is hot, stir in the soy sauce, sugar, and adjust with more salt if needed. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
- Use left-overs: Using leftover garlic, meat, or rice for example can reduce waste and enhance flavours in new dishes, providing an economical and tasty meal solution.
- High Heat: Cooking over high heat is essential for achieving the characteristic slightly crispy rice of this recipe. It helps to caramelize the garlic and ensures the rice absorbs the flavours quickly.
- Preparation is Key: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Fried rice comes together quickly, and having everything at hand ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Egg Integration: Creating a well in the center of the pan for the egg allows it to cook partially before mixing with the rice. This technique helps distribute the egg evenly throughout the dish without overcooking it.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of the cooking process. Soy sauce and garlic powder will add salty flavours. Additional salt can be added if needed, but do so cautiously.
- Tofu: Adding delicious tofu and sesame seeds to your dish introduces a nutty flavour and a boost of protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal. This combination is perfect for vegetarians looking for hearty, plant-based options.
- Frozen vegetables: It can bring a fresh flavour to your dishes. If vegetables are your favourite ingredients, using them from frozen ensures they’re a staple in your daily diet, providing convenience without sacrificing taste.
- Try other types of rice: Experimenting with different rice can transform your meals. Try using long-grain rice or Basmati to infuse distinct textures and flavours into your dishes, enhancing your culinary experience with their unique characteristics.
Garlic fried rice is a delightful and easy dish to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. You can use pepper, fresh garlic and chilli flakes if you want to spice things up.
By following this garlic fried rice recipe, you can create a delicious and aromatic dish that brings a taste of Asian food to your table. Whether you prefer the Filipino, Japanese, or Thai style, the versatility of this hearty meal ensures it can be adapted to suit your palate.
You can also add meat like shrimp to make shrimp fried rice, adobo chicken or beef to the skillet to step up your garlic rice. In terms of pieces of vegetables to add to your rice with a garlicky flavour, think of green onions or bell peppers to elevate the nutritional value of this plate.
Enjoy your culinary journey with this easy garlic fried rice recipe!
