Basil Fried Rice

5 from 2 votes

This delicious basil fried rice is ready in under 15 minutes, and is the perfect side dish to grilled meat, fish, or curries.

Prep Time2

Cook Time10

Total Time12

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian, Thai

Diet: Vegetarian

Servings: Portions

Calories: 386kcal

Author: Elle John

Ingredients

2 cups Cooked Rice Cold
2 tablespoon Oil
2 Eggs
1 Red Onion finely chopped
2 Garlic Cloves peeled and minced
2-3 Red Chilies washed and sliced
15-20 Basil Leaves washed
1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce
½ tablespoon Fish Sauce optional
Salt and Pepper to Taste

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

This recipe is very quick, so keep all the ingredients at hand, ready to use.
Beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Heat a teaspoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until just set. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the pan. Sauté the finely chopped onion, garlic, and chili until the onion is translucent and soft.
Increase to high heat and add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice is heated through. You can break the clumps of rice before adding it to the pan, however, this is easier if your hands are wet with water or oil.
Add dark soy sauce and fish sauce. Mix well and cook for a further minute.
Reduce the heat again, stir in the scrambled eggs and basil leaves until the basil is just wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the basil fried rice immediately. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish or prawns, and you can place a few leaves of basil on top for garnish.

Notes

Fresh Basil: Choose the one you prefer or find. Each will bring something different to the table:

Thai Basil: Has a spicy, licorice-like flavor, perfect for adding a kick to this dish.
Holy Basil: Less sweet, with a peppery kick that enhances the heat from the chili.
Italian Basil: Sweeter and more subtle, best if you prefer a milder basil flavor.

Storing and Reheating: Basil fried rice, like all fried rice, is best when freshly prepared, however, leftover rice can be stored. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for up to one month. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the frozen rice in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet or wok over medium heat until hot throughout, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.

Nutrition