Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe

If you love a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that’s quick to whip up any time of day, you’re going to adore this Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe. It’s the ultimate Filipino comfort food staple, turning simple leftover rice into a savory masterpiece infused with golden fried garlic, a touch of soy sauce, and a delightful hint of pepper. Every bite bursts with that wonderful garlicky aroma and satisfying texture that makes you want just one more forkful. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this sinangag recipe will quickly become your go-to sidekick for meals or even as a satisfying main on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe is how straightforward and minimal the ingredient list is; each one plays a crucial role in building its rich taste and perfect texture. Using day-old rice is key, while fresh garlic and green onions bring in that iconic flavor and color contrast.

• 3 cups long grain white rice (cooked and day old): Using chilled rice helps prevent clumping and creates that perfect fried rice texture.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: This acts as the flavorful cooking medium and helps fry the garlic to beautiful golden crispiness.
• 15 cloves garlic (roughly minced): The star ingredient, garlic infuses the whole dish with delicious aroma and depth.
• 3 green onions (sliced): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together with perfect seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper: Offers a gentle heat and subtle spiciness without overpowering garlic’s boldness.
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or more to taste): Gives the rice a savory, umami boost and a beautiful golden-brown tint.
• Fried garlic: For garnish that provides extra crunch and an irresistible crispy finish on top.
• Green onions: Additional fresh garnish to brighten up the plate and balance flavors.

How to Make Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe

Step 1: Fry the garlic

Start by heating your vegetable oil in a wok or a large pan over medium to medium-low heat. Add the roughly minced garlic and let it cook gently until it turns a lovely golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Once the garlic reaches that perfect crispiness, use a slotted spoon to remove most of it from the pan, leaving the flavorful garlic-infused oil behind to cook the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Add the green onions

Next, toss in the sliced green onions and cook them for about 30 seconds just until they become fragrant. This step releases their mild, fresh aroma which complements the garlic beautifully and gives the dish a vibrant, inviting scent.

Step 3: Add the rice

Turn the heat up to medium-high before adding your cold, day-old rice. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break up any clumps and toss everything together. For those delicious crispy rice bits that make sinangag so beloved, spread the rice into a thin layer on the surface of the pan for about 30 seconds without stirring. This technique creates lovely toasted edges teeming with flavor.

Step 4: Season the rice

Now it’s time for the magic seasoning: add the kosher salt, white pepper, and soy sauce evenly over the rice. Toss everything well to ensure each grain is coated with that savory goodness. Then, mix back in about two-thirds of the fried garlic you set aside earlier, giving the rice a taste of garlicky crunch throughout.

Step 5: Serve

When your garlic fried rice is perfectly seasoned and piping hot, transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with the remaining fried garlic and fresh green onions for a pop of color and extra crunch. Enjoy this comforting and aromatic dish with your favorite Filipino favorites or just on its own!

How to Serve Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe

Garnishes

While the Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe is flavorful on its own, the crispy fried garlic and fresh green onions on top make it truly shine. These garnishes add a textural contrast and a burst of fragrant flavor that elevate each bite to a whole new level. Feel free to sprinkle a touch of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of soy sauce if you want a bolder kick.

Side Dishes

Sinangag is traditionally paired with hearty Filipino favorites like tapa (cured beef), tocino (sweet cured pork), or longganisa (Filipino sausage). But it’s equally fantastic alongside fried eggs, grilled fish, or even just with sautéed vegetables. This rice is a perfect blank canvas ready to complement whatever protein or veggies you’re craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to jazz up how you serve your garlic fried rice? Shape it into little mounds or dome shapes using a small bowl or a mold for a restaurant-style presentation. You can also try mixing in some finely chopped veggies like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. For a fun twist, top the sinangag with a sunny-side-up egg and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a breakfast plate that impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to maintain its fresh flavor and good texture. Cold sinangag is fine but reheating brings back that signature freshly fried charm.

Freezing

Garlic fried rice freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days. Portion the cooled rice into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It’s best consumed within 1 month for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, use a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat. Add a little oil if needed, then toss in the frozen or refrigerated rice, breaking up any clumps as it warms. Reheat until steaming hot and slightly crispy again, ideally reviving the delicious fried texture of the original dish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice for this Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe?

Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for fried rice, which can result in a mushy texture. Day-old rice that has been refrigerated works best because the grains dry out slightly, making it easier to separate and fry evenly.

What if I don’t have kosher salt? Can I use regular table salt?

You can absolutely use regular table salt if you don’t have kosher salt. Just use slightly less because table salt is denser. Start with about 1/3 teaspoon and adjust to taste as you cook.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use vegetable oil and soy sauce that is free from animal products. It’s a perfect vegan-friendly dish full of flavor.

Can I add protein directly into the rice while cooking?

You can, but it’s best to cook proteins like diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu separately to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure everything is cooked properly. Then serve the protein alongside or mixed in at the end with your garlic fried rice.

How do I get my rice extra crispy?

Spread the rice in a thin, even layer in your pan and let it cook undisturbed for 30 seconds to a minute before stirring. Using a high heat and good oil helps create those wonderful crispy bits that make sinangag so delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of garlic frying, especially when it signals a bowl of warm, flavorful Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe is ready to enjoy. It’s a humble yet irresistible dish that turns simple leftovers into a star attraction. Give this recipe a try and discover why sinangag holds such a beloved place in Filipino kitchens – it’s pure, garlicky joy in every forkful!

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