The Best Ever Garlic Fried Rice

Related Fried Rice Recipes:

• Okra Fried Rice
• Brisket Fried Rice
• Shrimp Fried Rice
• Fried Brown Rice

In the realm of culinary symphonies, where flavors dance in harmony, there exists a dish that embodies the essence of my love affair with food – Garlic Fried Rice.

Just as Prince's song "When Two Are in Love" serenades the soul with its melodic embrace, the sizzling allure of garlic and the tender notes of perfectly fried rice come together in a culinary duet that is nothing short of magical. This humble yet heartwarming creation, much like the timeless ballad, captivates the senses and invites all to partake in the culinary celebration of love and flavor.

Join me on a journey where the aromatic whispers of garlic and the comforting embrace of fried rice converge, creating a melody that resonates on the palate and transcends the boundaries of ordinary dining.

Recipe Inspiration

I love a good fried rice dish! I'm that guy that buys extra rice from a Chinese takeout joint and saves the leftovers to make fried rice a few different nights.

During a trip to New York, specifically Harlem I had lunch at Chef JJ's rice based casual restaurant Field Trip. The rice bowls were so good, I bought a copy of his Rice book after seeing it in the restaurant. I saw his version of Sinangag which is a Filipino garlic fried rice. I decided to make my own adding a Caribbean spin on it by adding the coconut flavor plus spices like cinnamon and star anise.

Sinangag in Filipino cuisine, holds significant importance in Filipino meals for several reasons:

1. Flavor Enhancement: Garlic fried rice is prized for its ability to enhance the overall flavor of a meal. The aromatic and savory essence of garlic, when combined with the nutty taste of fried rice, creates a delicious and satisfying base that complements various Filipino dishes.
2. Economic Use of Leftovers: In Filipino households, where resourcefulness and minimizing food waste are valued, garlic fried rice serves as an excellent way to repurpose leftover rice. By transforming plain, day-old rice into a flavorful side dish, families can make the most out of their resources.
3. Versatility: Garlic fried rice is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with a wide range of Filipino main courses, such as adobo, tapa (cured beef), tocino (sweet cured pork), and more. Its adaptability makes it a staple accompaniment on Filipino dining tables.
4. Breakfast Staple: In the Philippines, garlic fried rice is commonly enjoyed as part of a hearty breakfast, often served with fried or sunny-side-up eggs, cured meats, and sometimes a side of atsara (pickled green papaya). It provides a substantial and flavorful start to the day.
5. Cultural Tradition: The preparation and enjoyment of garlic fried rice are deeply rooted in Filipino culinary traditions. The dish reflects the country's rich culinary history and the resourceful nature of Filipino cooking, showcasing the creativity in making simple ingredients shine.
6. Comfort Food: Beyond its practical and cultural significance, garlic fried rice holds emotional value as well. It is a comfort food that evokes a sense of nostalgia and home, providing both physical and emotional nourishment.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with garlic fried rice)

Immerse yourself in a culinary and musical journey by pairing the irresistible allure of garlic fried rice with the soulful sounds of Prince's "When Two Are In Love." As the rhythmic sizzle of garlic meets the pan, the melody of Prince weaves through the air, creating a symphony of flavors and emotions.

The garlic-infused aroma dances in harmony with the romantic notes, transforming the kitchen into a haven where the art of cooking and the magic of music come together. Allow the timeless ballad to serenade your senses as you savor each delectable bite, a perfect union of gastronomic delight and musical poetry.

Ingredients Needed To Make Garlic Rice

Leftover Cooked Rice - I prefer long grain white rice like a basmati or jasmine type

Fresh Garlic - Meticulously minced and sautéed to a golden perfection, the garlic infuses the cooking oil with its essence, creating a fragrant base that permeates every grain of rice.

Fresh Thyme - While fresh thyme might not be a traditional ingredient in a classic Garlic Fried Rice recipe, its addition can bring a delightful herbal twist, infusing the dish with aromatic notes that complement the robust flavor of garlic.

Green Onions - The inclusion of green onions in a Garlic Fried Rice recipe is a culinary flourish that elevates the dish, imparting freshness and a subtle oniony kick

Cinnamon Stick - Infusing coconut oil with cinnamon sticks for a Garlic Fried Rice recipe introduces a warm and subtly sweet undertone that complements the savory flavors of the dish

Star Anise - introduces a unique and aromatic twist, imparting subtle licorice-like undertones to enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Coconut Oil - I like my rice coconut flavored but feel free to use vegetable oil or olive oil

Kosher Salt

Black Pepper

How To Make This Fried Rice Recipe

Infuse the Oil

• Heat large skillet to medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise. Toast for 20-30 seconds then add the coconut oil.
• Add the fresh thyme plus garlic and saute, stirring frequently until the garlic begins to turn a nice golden brown color. This should take 1-2 minutes.
• Remove ½ the garlic with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel lined plate or bowl.

Cook the rice

• Add the leftover cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumping with a wooden spoon. Add the salt and mix the rice well.
• Transfer the rice to your preferred serving bowl. Add the remaining garlic back plus the green onions.
• Once everything is well-combined and heated through, transfer the garlic fried rice to a serving dish. Top with fried or scrambled eggs and garnish with additional chopped green onions.

What To Serve With Fried Rice

Garlic fried rice is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of other dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside garlic fried rice:

1. Fried or Sunny-Side-Up Eggs:
   • A classic choice, the rich and runny yolk of a fried or sunny-side-up egg adds a luscious texture that complements the savory notes of the garlic fried rice.
2. Filipino Breakfast Meats:
   • Enjoy garlic fried rice with traditional Filipino breakfast meats such as tocino (sweet cured pork), tapa (cured beef), or longganisa (Filipino sausage). The sweet and savory flavors of these meats harmonize well with the garlic-infused rice.
3. Grilled or Fried Fish:
   • Serve garlic fried rice alongside grilled or fried fish for a balanced meal. The crispy skin or smoky flavor of the fish complements the rice's nutty and savory notes.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables:
   • A colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch to the meal. You can use a simple soy sauce and garlic seasoning for the vegetables.
5. Teriyaki Chicken or Beef:
   • The sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki chicken or beef complement the neutral tones of fried rice. The caramelized glaze on the meat enhances the overall taste.
6. Honey Garlic Shrimp:
   • Succulent shrimp glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce pairs exceptionally well with fried rice. The contrasting textures and flavors create a delightful combination.
7. Soy-Glazed Salmon:
   • Grilled or pan-seared salmon with a soy glaze provides a rich and savory protein option that pairs beautifully with fried rice.
8. Crispy Spring Rolls:
   • Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables, shrimp, or chicken offer a delightful contrast to the soft and flavorful fried rice.

Flavor Maximizing Tips

1. Use Day-Old Rice:
   • Opt for day-old rice that has been refrigerated. This slightly dried-out rice absorbs flavors better and results in a better texture when stir-fried.
2. Quality Garlic:
   • Choose fresh, high-quality garlic for the best flavor. Mince the garlic finely to ensure its aroma infuses the entire dish without overwhelming it.
3. Proper Oil Temperature:
   • Heat the cooking oil to the right temperature before adding garlic. This helps release the garlic's flavors without burning it. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the garlic is added but not so hot that it burns quickly.
4. Sauté Garlic Carefully:
   • Sauté the minced garlic until it turns golden brown and aromatic. Be vigilant to prevent burning, as burnt fried garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
5. Balanced Seasoning:
   • Season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Achieving a well-balanced flavor profile ensures that the garlic and soy sauce complement each other without overpowering the dish.
6. Incorporate Aromatics:
   • Consider adding aromatic ingredients like green onions or shallots. These contribute additional layers of flavor and freshness to the dish.
7. Stir-Fry Techniques:
   • Stir-fry the rice over medium-high heat to create a slightly crispy texture. Constant stirring prevents sticking and ensures an even distribution of flavors.
8. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   • Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley. The brightness of the herbs adds a burst of freshness to the savory notes of the fried rice.
9. Experiment with Infusions:
   • Infuse the cooking oil with additional flavors, such as ginger or shallots, before adding the garlic. This extra step adds nuanced layers of taste to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice is best for garlic fried rice?

Medium to long-grain rice varieties like Jasmine or Basmati work well, providing a fluffy texture.

Can I add vegetables or protein to garlic fried rice?

Absolutely! Customize with your favorite veggies or protein like diced carrots, peas, shrimp, or chicken for a well-rounded dish.

What oil is recommended for frying garlic rice?

I preferred coconut oil for this dish cause I wanted that Caribbean vibe. However sesame oil or a combination of sesame oil and vegetable oil adds a rich flavor and could make a good alternative..

Can I make garlic fried rice without soy sauce?

While soy sauce adds depth I went without since I had other ingredients like Cinnamon and star anise to add flavor complexity. You can definitely go with soy or experiment with alternatives like tamari or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make This Garlic Fried Rice Recipe

In the soulful resonance of each grain, where the garlic-infused melody harmonizes with the rice, we find a culinary ballad akin to Prince's timeless "When Two Are in Love." In the culmination of flavors and fragrances, the Garlic Fried Rice emerges as a love letter to the palate, weaving a symphony of garlic's aromatic embrace and the subtle notes of perfectly fried rice.

As we conclude this culinary journey, remember that in every forkful, you're not just savoring a dish; you're embracing a tale of love and flavor. Much like the lingering refrain of a cherished melody, the essence of Garlic Fried Rice lingers, inviting you to revisit the magic of each flavorful encounter.

So, let the culinary chords resonate, and may your kitchen always be filled with the sweet serenade of garlic and rice, echoing the sentiment that when flavor and love dance together, every meal becomes a cherished celebration.

If you make this delicious chicken and fried rice recipe, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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