Garlic Rice – The Ultimate Savory Side Dish with Crispy
Garlic Rice is a fragrant and savory rice dish made with toasted garlic and cooked rice.It is quick to prepare and ideal for using leftover rice.Each grain remains fluffy and coated with rich garlic flavor.Crispy garlic bits add irresistible texture and aroma.Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with almost any main dish.Simple ingredients create an exceptionally delicious side.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cold cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 10 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Break up any clumps in the cold cooked rice using clean hands or a fork.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant.
- For extra crunch, remove a spoonful of crispy garlic and set aside for topping.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat with garlic oil.
- Add salt and pepper, stirring until the rice is evenly seasoned.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Top with the reserved crispy garlic and green onions if desired.
- Serve hot with eggs, grilled meats, or seafood.
Notes
- Day-old rice yields the best texture.
- Fresh garlic provides the strongest flavor.
- Butter creates a richer taste.
- Avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Jasmine rice works beautifully.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors if desired.
- Great for meal prep.
- Easily doubled for larger gatherings.