Chilli Garlic Fried Rice: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meal
Craving a delicious and satisfying meal but short on time? Look no further than Chilli Garlic Fried Rice! This easy recipe packs a punch of flavor with simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for using leftover rice, it’s a great way to whip up a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and cooled rice (preferably day-old)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 dry red chilies, depending on spice preference (optional)
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned (optional)
- 1 cup chopped vegetables of your choice (peas, broccoli, bell peppers)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped spring onions (for garnish)
Cooking Guide:
- Heat oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add garlic and chilies (if using) and saute for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add onion and carrot (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened slightly.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the rice. Break up any clumps with a spatula.
- Increase heat to high and stir-fry the rice for 2-3 minutes, until heated through and slightly toasted.
- Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar, stirring constantly to combine.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Stir in chopped vegetables and cook for an additional minute, until heated through.
- Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.
Tips:
- Use day-old, cooked and cooled rice for best results. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky for fried rice.
- If you don’t have dry red chilies, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes for a milder spice level.
- Feel free to add your favorite protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more complete meal.
- For a richer flavor, drizzle with a touch of sesame oil before serving.