🧄 Garlicky Fried Rice | Crispy, Golden, and Packed with Flavor!

Love fried rice? This garlicky twist takes it to the next level!

Whether you serve it as a side dish or top it with an egg and call it dinner, this is the kind of fried rice you'll crave again and again.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
Base:


3 cups cold, cooked white rice (day-old rice works best!)

4–6 garlic cloves, finely minced

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut)

1 tbsp light soy sauce

1 tsp toasted sesame oil

Salt & white pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup frozen peas, carrots, or bell peppers

2 green onions, finely chopped

½ cup cooked protein (shrimp, tofu, chicken, Spam, etc.)

1 tsp oyster sauce or fish sauce for extra umami

Instructions

Step 1: Prep

Break up cold rice into individual grains. Set aside.

Beat eggs with a pinch of salt.

Mince garlic, chop green onions, prep any extras now—this goes fast once the pan’s hot.

Step 2: Make Crispy Garlic
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant (1–2 min).

Remove garlic with a slotted spoon. Set aside. Leave garlic oil in the pan.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Pour beaten eggs into garlic oil.

Let them set slightly, then stir gently for soft, fluffy curds.

Push eggs to the side or remove temporarily.

Step 4: Fry the Rice
Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan.

Add cold rice, increase to high heat, and stir-fry 2–3 min. Press and toss to break up clumps and get some golden edges.

Return eggs to pan, breaking them up into rice.

Step 5: Season & Finish
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper.

Toss in peas, scallions, or protein if using.

Stir-fry 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated and well coated.

Step 6: Garnish
Top with crispy garlic bits, extra scallions, or a drizzle of chili oil.

🍴 Serving Tips:
Add a fried egg on top for extra flair 🍳

Pair with stir-fried veggies, grilled meats, or enjoy solo

Make extra and freeze portions for a 5-minute meal later