Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and quick to make? Then look no further! This basil fried rice recipe is your answer. It's a delicious fusion of Asian flavors, packed with fresh basil's bright, peppery aroma, and it's ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best!)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds umami)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep your ingredients: Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process much smoother. Mincing the garlic and chopping the onion and bell pepper beforehand saves valuable time.
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Scramble the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
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Add the vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
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Combine with rice: Add the cooked rice to the wok and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
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Season and Stir: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and ground ginger. Stir well to combine and coat the rice evenly.
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Incorporate Basil and Eggs: Stir in the chopped basil and scrambled eggs. Cook for another minute, just until the basil is slightly wilted but still vibrant green.
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Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious basil fried rice immediately. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Basil Fried Rice:
- Day-old rice is key: Day-old rice is drier and less likely to become mushy when stir-fried. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry it out before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If your wok or skillet is too crowded, the rice will steam instead of stir-fry. Work in batches if necessary.
- High heat is your friend: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Keep the heat high throughout the cooking process.
- Taste and adjust: Taste your fried rice as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Variations:
- Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetable variations: Experiment with other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Different herbs: Try substituting cilantro or parsley for the basil for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Around 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 50-60 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
This easy basil fried rice recipe is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious meal that's quick to prepare. Enjoy this tasty dish as a quick dinner idea or a part of your healthy meal plan. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier or more satisfying than this!