If you’re searching for a way to transform day-old rice into a craveworthy delight, look no further than Garlic Fried Rice. It’s an aromatic and savory dish that’s deeply satisfying—each grain of rice expertly kissed by golden garlic and a whisper of butter. One bite and you’ll see why this simple Asian classic finds its way onto breakfast, lunch, and dinner tables alike, delivering garlicky comfort in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic Fried Rice is in its simplicity: just a handful of kitchen staples, yet each ingredient works its magic to bring out irresistible flavor and texture. Let’s look at what you’ll need, and how each part contributes to the dish’s signature yum.
- Cooked and chilled white rice (4 cups): Day-old rice is best—it holds its shape and gets perfectly toasted. Freshly cooked rice is often too soft and sticky.
- Garlic cloves (6, thinly sliced): The star ingredient! Slicing thinly ensures toasty, crunchy bits that deliver winsome flavor throughout every bite.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Neutral in taste, it’s the vehicle that crisps up the garlic and ensures the rice doesn’t stick.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Adds a delightful touch of richness and depth, making each grain extra luscious.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): For those who want a saltier, umami-packed kick. You can skip or add to taste.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for that finishing balance and just the right amount of warmth.
- Chopped green onions or fried garlic (optional): Freshness and extra crunch for your final flourish—totally optional but highly encouraged!
How to Make Garlic Fried Rice
Step 1: Crisp Up the Garlic
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté, watching closely so it doesn’t burn—about one to two minutes should do it. The slices will turn a beautiful golden brown and flood your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Scoop out the crispy garlic bits with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate, saving every last crunchy piece for garnishing glory!
Step 2: Infuse the Oil and Add Butter
Don’t touch that pan! The oil is now perfectly infused with garlic flavor. Drop in the unsalted butter and let it melt, mingling with the garlic-scented oil for a doubly rich base. Give the butter a quick swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add in your cold, day-old rice and break up any clumps with a spatula. Stir well to ensure every grain is glossy from the garlic oil and butter combo. Keep the rice moving and let it toast for five to seven minutes, giving it a chance to heat through and pick up those wonderful toasty spots that define great Garlic Fried Rice.
Step 4: Season and Add Garlic
If you love a little extra savoriness, add a splash of soy sauce at this step, and be sure to taste as you go. Sprinkle in salt and cracked black pepper, adjusting to your preference. Once seasoned, stir in half the crispy garlic so those tasty nuggets blend into the rice. Save the rest for the grand finale on top!
Step 5: Serve With Garnish
Spoon the Garlic Fried Rice into a serving bowl or platter and shower with the reserved garlic chips. Toss some chopped green onions over for a fresh pop of color. Serve hot and get ready for round after round of compliments!
How to Serve Garlic Fried Rice
Garnishes
Go big with finishings! Pile on those crispy garlic slices saved from step one, and sprinkle with plenty of chopped green onions for contrast. A dash of black pepper or even a sprinkle of fried shallots can add extra dimension if you love bold flavor.
Side Dishes
Garlic Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with fried or poached eggs, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or spicy sausage. It acts as a flavorful canvas that soaks up sauces and elevates basic proteins, making it both the perfect accompaniment and a star in its own right.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual bowls for comfort-food elegance, or pack into a small ramekin and invert onto each plate for a restaurant-worthy dome. For brunch, top with a runny-yolk fried egg or try mixing in sautéed seasonal greens. Heap into lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Garlic Fried Rice, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days—just enough time to plan a delicious encore meal!
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Flatten for quicker freezing and label with the date. Garlic Fried Rice freezes well for up to one month, making it an easy meal-prep staple.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice and microwave covered until hot, or toss in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to re-crisp and evenly warm the rice. Add a touch more butter or oil if you want to restore a just-cooked silkiness.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Fried Rice with brown rice or another grain?
Absolutely! Brown rice, jasmine rice, and even quinoa can be used. The key is that the grains are cooked and chilled so they don’t get mushy. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes—simply swap the butter for more vegetable oil or a plant-based alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so it’s easy to keep this meal plant-powered.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
Keep the heat at medium and watch closely after a minute or so. Stir frequently, and as soon as the garlic turns golden, remove it from the oil. Burnt garlic can quickly make the dish bitter, so vigilance wins here.
Can I add protein or veggies directly to the dish?
Definitely! You can add diced chicken, shrimp, peas, carrots, or bell peppers after the butter melts and before adding the rice. Just be sure to cook proteins through before combining with the rice.
Why does day-old rice work best for Garlic Fried Rice?
Day-old rice is drier and firmer, so it doesn’t clump or turn mushy when stir-fried. This results in beautifully separate, slightly chewy grains that soak up the flavors of garlic, oil, and butter—simply perfect every time.
Final Thoughts
I honestly can’t recommend trying Garlic Fried Rice enough—it’s fast, wildly flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making a feast or just cleaning out the fridge, this humble but mighty dish is bound to become a favorite. Give it a go and watch your leftover rice turn into the highlight of your meal!
Print
Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Fried Rice is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for using up leftover rice. With crispy garlic slices and a buttery flavor, this easy recipe is a great side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Rice:
- 4 cups cooked and chilled white rice (preferably day-old)
Garlic:
- 6 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
Oil and Butter:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or fried garlic for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until crispy, then set aside.
- Cook Rice: In the same pan, add butter, then rice. Cook until heated through and slightly toasted.
- Season and Serve: Add soy sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the crispy garlic. Serve topped with remaining garlic and green onions.
Notes
- Best made with day-old rice for the right texture.
- Serve as a side dish with eggs, meats, or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
