Griddling with Pantry Basics: Fried Rice
One of our favorite 'from the pantry to the table' dishes is fried rice; it's easy, adaptable, and fun to cook on the Blackstone. It is definitely something you need to try if you haven't. Whether you are a griddle veteran or new to Griddle Nation, here are some of our tips to make your fried rice turn out amazing every time!
6 Tips to Making the Perfect Fried Rice
1) Spice up your rice when you cook it first
A common mistake people make when cooking fried rice is only season your rice when it's being fried instead of when you are initially hydrating it. Adding seasonings like fresh cilantro, lime juice, chicken stock, and butter or coconut milk, pineapple juice, and salt to your rice as you boil it will help the rice absorb the flavors for a deeper, fuller taste.
2) Don't try to fry freshly cooked rice
Freshly hydrated rice is great for curries and sides, but doesn't fry well because it is too warm and moist. For the best results, boil your rice and then let it sit in the fridge for anywhere from a few hours to two days to allow it to dry and cool down.
3) Be gentle
When making fried rice on a griddle, it can be tempting to show off your hibachi skills by emphatically chopping and tossing with your spatulas. However, being more gentle with your rice will help keep the grains and eggs fluffy and prettier. Try putting a little of your preferred oil on the griddle top, adding some wisked eggs to the oil, and then add your chilled rice on top, gently folding the eggs into the rice. This will help your dish look and taste amazing.
4) A little goes a long way
When it comes to adding soy sauce or other sauces to your fried rice, don't overdo it. Over-saturating your rice with oils will weigh down the grains, making it less fluffy as well as masking all the more subtle but important flavors in your dish.
5) Make it work for you
The great thing about cooking fried rice is how forgiving it is. Have some frozen vegetables in the back of your freezer that need used? How about a can of pineapple tidbits or bag of raisins in the back of your cupboard? Mix things up to make it work for you.
6) Finish strong
A little garnish goes a long way for presentation and flavor. When you plate your creation up, don't be afraid to add some fresh cilantro, scallions, chives, or chopped cashews on top, and of course your favorite teriyaki or barbecue sauce if you desire.
Need a starting point? There are tons of inspiring recipes on our website! Check out our bacon fried rice with spicy mayo or ham fried rice recipes.