Bang Bang Fried Rice offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it a favorite among home cooks. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of rice with a harmonious mix of proteins and vegetables, all brought together by a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner with friends, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Why We Love This Bang Bang Fried Rice
You will quickly fall for Bang Bang Fried Rice because it ticks all the right boxes for a satisfying meal. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The balance of flavors—from the slight heat of the sauce to the umami richness of the proteins—creates a dish that excites the palate. Moreover, the ability to customize the ingredients allows you to use whatever you have on hand, making it an adaptable go-to recipe.
It’s a one-dish meal that creates minimal mess while delivering an impressive presentation. Imagine a vibrant bowl of colorful grains topped with fresh veggies and protein, all slicked with a creamy sauce. Whether you enjoy it in a bowl or plate, Bang Bang Fried Rice becomes a conversation starter at the dining table. Plus, leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully, making it a smart option for meal prep.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup chicken or shrimp
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons Bang Bang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- Once hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken or shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
- Push the protein to one side of the skillet. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, mixing everything together well.
- Pour in the soy sauce and Bang Bang sauce, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Finally, toss in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
How to Serve Bang Bang Fried Rice
When it comes to serving Bang Bang Fried Rice, let your creativity shine. You can serve the fried rice in individual bowls or on a large platter for family-style dining. For a vibrant touch, consider garnishing each serving with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or extra chopped green onions.
Pair it with a side of crispy spring rolls or a refreshing cucumber salad to create a complete meal. If you enjoy a little crunch, you can also sprinkle crispy shallots on top just before serving. This dish is great for sharing, so have plenty of utensils on hand and encourage diners to dig in.
Feel free to enhance the meal with beverages, such as iced tea or sparkling water, which can help cleanse the palate between bites. Set your table with colorful dishes to match the vibrancy of your fried rice, making it an inviting feast that draws everyone to gather around.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Fried Rice
To make the most of your Bang Bang Fried Rice, consider a few expert tips. First, always use day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture, which can lead to clumping when stir-frying. Storing rice in the refrigerator overnight allows it to dry out and firm up, giving you better texture.
Next, feel free to adjust the protein to suit your preference. You can use chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Keep in mind that marinating your protein beforehand can infuse it with even more flavor.
Additionally, be careful not to overcrowd the pan while cooking. If you have a large batch, cooking in smaller portions will help everything cook evenly without steaming. Lastly, keep the heat high to achieve that coveted stir-fry texture, ensuring everything remains juicy and delicious without turning soggy.
How to Store Bang Bang Fried Rice
Storing Bang Bang Fried Rice is simple and convenient. Once cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety. Bang Bang Fried Rice can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days.
When reheating, you can use a skillet over medium heat or the microwave for quick convenience. If the rice seems a bit dry upon reheating, sprinkle a few drops of water before warming it up in the microwave to help steam it. Stirring occasionally will also promote even heat distribution.
For longer storage, you can freeze Bang Bang Fried Rice. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It’s best used within 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations of Bang Bang Fried Rice
Bang Bang Fried Rice is easy to adapt based on your taste and dietary needs. For a spicier version, you can add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili paste when cooking. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding charred vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant. These additions can bring new dimensions to your dish.
For a heartier meal, you can incorporate more protein like diced chicken thighs or sautéed mushrooms. On the vegetarian side, substitute the protein with chickpeas or edamame for a plant-based twist. You can also switch up the sauces and experiment with a sweet and sour sauce for a different backdrop to the flavors.
Add colorful veggies like shredded cabbage or snap peas for crunch and increased nutrition. With each variation, you’ll create a new take on this classic dish, keeping it fresh and exciting for every dining experience.
FAQ about Bang Bang Fried Rice
You might have some questions about how to make the best Bang Bang Fried Rice. One common query is about the flavor profile of the Bang Bang sauce. This rich and creamy sauce typically includes elements like mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha, offering a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. If you like it milder, you can reduce the sriracha or opt for sweet chili sauce alone.
Another frequent question is whether you can use any other rice types. While jasmine rice is traditional, you can also use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different types of rice have different textures and moisture content.
Lastly, people often want to know if this dish can cater to specific dietary preferences. The beauty of Bang Bang Fried Rice lies in its versatility. You can easily make it gluten-free by opting for tamari instead of standard soy sauce or keeping it vegetarian by eliminating meat entirely. The options are limitless!
Bang Bang Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice Use day-old rice for best texture.
- 1 cup chicken or shrimp Protein can be adjusted based on preference.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers) Feel free to vary based on what you have.
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped For garnish and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a robust flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated Enhances flavor and aroma.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Can substitute with tamari for gluten-free option.
- 3 tablespoons Bang Bang sauce Store-bought or homemade as preferred.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or cooking oil For stir-frying.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- optional sesame seeds for garnish Sprinkle before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- Once hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken or shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
- Push the protein to one side of the skillet. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, mixing everything together well.
- Pour in the soy sauce and Bang Bang sauce, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Finally, toss in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
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