Chili Garlic Fried Rice

This Chili Garlic Fried Rice is a quick and easy recipe loaded with bold flavors and vibrant vegetables. Made with short-grain rice, spicy homemade chili garlic paste, and a mix of fresh veggies, this stir-fried rice dish is perfect for spice lovers seeking a flavorful meal. The addition of soy sauce, vinegar, and white pepper brings a savory, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with the heat from the red chilies and garlic. Ready in under 30 minutes, this spicy fried rice is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a delicious side dish for any Asian-inspired spread. Enjoy this easy, spicy fried rice packed with taste and texture!

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 1/2 cups short-grain rice, such as Jeera Sambar rice (yields about 4 cups cooked)
• Water, for boiling

For the Chili Garlic Paste:

• 5–6 whole dry red chilies
• 8–10 garlic cloves, peeled

For the Stir Fry:

• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1/4 cup finely chopped beans
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 3 Tbsp chili garlic paste
• 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 2 Tbsp chopped spring onion greens

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice:

• Rinse the rice 3 times in room-temperature water to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
• In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring enough water to a boil to submerge the rice fully.
• Add the rinsed rice and cook on medium heat until 95% cooked. Drain the rice using a strainer, tapping gently to remove excess water.
• Spread the rice on a tray to allow moisture to evaporate and bring the rice to room temperature.

2. Make the Chili Garlic Paste:

• Soak the dry red chilies in hot water for 10 minutes until softened.
• Drain and grind the chilies with garlic to a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed.

3. Stir Fry the Rice:

• Heat oil in a wok. Add the chili garlic paste and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
• Add the minced ginger, garlic, green chilies, and onions. Sauté for 1 minute, then add the beans, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3–4 minutes.
• Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Stir-fry on high heat for 2 minutes, tossing well to combine.

4. Serve:

• Garnish with spring onion greens and serve hot. Enjoy this flavorful, spicy fried rice!