Bang Bang Fried Rice is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the comforting flavors of fried rice with a spicy twist. This meal is not just easy to prepare but also versatile, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The creamy sauce adds a unique touch, elevating ordinary fried rice into something truly special.
Why We Love This Bang Bang Fried Rice
This Bang Bang Fried Rice stands out for its incredible flavor combination. The rice absorbs the well-balanced spicy and savory sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience. You can customize it based on your preferences, adding any vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings, and it’s an excellent way to use leftover rice. The dish is not only delicious, but it also offers a chance to experiment with different ingredients and spice levels, making each preparation unique. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it always pleases a crowd.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (cubed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil, stirring for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are tender and vibrant.
- If you’re using cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it to the skillet and stir everything together, heating for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the cooked jasmine rice, using a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the rice is heated through.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the fried rice, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Finally, stir in the chopped green onions and remove from heat. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Bang Bang Fried Rice
Bang Bang Fried Rice is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with various sides. For a simple meal, serve it straight from the skillet, allowing guests to take portions at their leisure. Consider adding some sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach for a fresh crunch. You might also serve it alongside crispy spring rolls or dumplings for a more substantial feast.
Plating can make a difference, so use a large serving dish and garnish the rice with extra chopped green onions and cilantro for color. A lime wedge on the side adds a delightful zing and a refreshing balance to the dish’s richness. Incorporate a dipping sauce, such as extra sweet chili sauce or even a soy-based sauce, for those who prefer an extra layer of flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together, your Bang Bang Fried Rice will surely impress.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
To make the most of your Bang Bang Fried Rice, consider these expert tips. First, use day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky and clump together during frying. Day-old rice has dried out slightly, making it easier to stir-fry and achieve that perfect texture.
Next, don’t overcrowd the skillet. When cooking, ensure you have enough space for all ingredients to fry evenly and develop flavor. If you’re making a large batch, cook in smaller portions. Adjusting the heat is also crucial; too high can burn the rice, while too low won’t give you that nice char.
For those who love experimenting, try incorporating different proteins or vegetables based on seasonal availability. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with extra tofu or tempeh. Don’t hesitate to play with the spice levels either; adding fresh chilies or reducing the sriracha can tailor the dish to your preference. Lastly, make sure to stir continuously to avoid adhering to the skillet, ensuring you maintain that lovely crunch.
How to Store Bang Bang Fried Rice
Storing Bang Bang Fried Rice is straightforward and can extend the life of your dish. Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Proper storage is essential for retaining flavor and texture. Place the container in the refrigerator where it can last for up to four days.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, portion the rice into zip-lock bags, squeezing out excess air before sealing. Bang Bang Fried Rice can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot. Always check for freshness; if there’s any off smell or unusual appearance, it’s best to discard it.
Variations of Bang Bang Fried Rice
The beauty of Bang Bang Fried Rice lies in its versatility, allowing you to create delicious variations based on your tastes or available ingredients. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with extra veggies, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas. You could also add chickpeas or edamame for a protein boost.
For a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding spices like turmeric or curry powder to the rice while cooking, giving it a warm color and unique taste. If you’re a fan of seafood, sauté shrimp or scallops in place of chicken for a seafood twist. Combining rice with different sauces, such as teriyaki or hoisin, will create completely new flavors.
Another variation includes adding nuts or seeds for crunch; toasted cashews or sesame seeds can elevate the texture and add a delightful nutty flavor. If you enjoy heat, experiment with different chili sauces or fresh chilies. Lastly, consider using different types of rice like brown rice for a healthier option or a blend of grains like quinoa for added nutrition.
FAQ about Bang Bang Fried Rice
You’re likely wondering what makes Bang Bang Fried Rice so unique. The dish’s signature flavor derives from the blend of sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of sriracha, combining creaminess and spice in each bite.
Another common question relates to using leftover rice. Yes, using day-old rice is recommended! It helps achieve the perfect texture, preventing the dish from becoming mushy. You might also ask if it’s possible to make Bang Bang Fried Rice vegetarian. Absolutely! Simply replace the meat with your preferred vegetables or plant-based proteins like tofu.
If you’re curious about spice levels, always feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha according to your taste. Those who prefer a milder dish can start with less and gradually add more. Lastly, you might want to know how to customize it further. Feel free to add in whatever veggies or proteins you enjoy, making it truly your own!
Bang Bang Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old) Day-old rice is recommended for better texture.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers) Use any combination of your favorite vegetables.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (cubed) Choose your preferred protein.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped For garnish and flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated Fresh ginger enhances flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce Adjust for saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha Adjust according to spice preference.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
- fresh cilantro for garnish Optional but recommended.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender and vibrant.
- If using cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it to the skillet and stir everything together, heating for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the cooked jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the rice is heated through.
Adding Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the fried rice, stirring to coat evenly.
- Taste the rice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Final Steps
- Stir in the chopped green onions and remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!