Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your meals, look no further than my beloved Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice). This dish brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the kick of chili oil, making it a perfect companion for any ulam or even enjoyed on its own. I love how simple and satisfying this recipe is, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What makes this Chili Oil Sinangag special is not just its flavor, but also its versatility. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes with leftover rice, and it’s easily customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite protein or as a comforting breakfast, this dish never fails to bring joy to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves fried rice! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and adventurous ones alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add in any veggies or proteins you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Make-Ahead Option: Use leftover rice from previous meals for an easy and tasty way to reduce food waste.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and chili oil creates an unforgettable taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients will make preparing your Chili Oil Sinangag a breeze! They are wholesome and easy to find, ensuring that you can make this dish whenever the craving strikes.

• 2 cups white rice or grain of choice (cooked and cooled—leftover is best!)
• 1-2 tbsp homemade chili oil or garlic chili oil
• 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste if needed)
• 1 head garlic, peeled and minced or roughly chopped
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add some veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Swap the protein: Mix in tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas for a hearty addition that complements the rice perfectly.
• Go spicy: If you’re feeling adventurous, add sliced fresh chilies or extra chili oil to kick up the heat!
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like green onions or parsley for extra freshness.

How to Make Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Step 1: Break Apart the Rice

Start by breaking apart any large chunks of your leftover rice. Using refrigerated rice helps reduce moisture content, which is key for achieving that perfect fried texture. Just give it a little love by breaking those clumps apart!

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Heat up a large wok or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, pour in your chili oil along with the salt. Mixing salt into the oil helps enhance its flavor. Keep an eye on those chili oil sediments; they can burn quickly if you’re not careful!

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add in your minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown. This step brings out the sweet notes of garlic while adding depth to your dish. If you’re adding veggies or protein, now’s the time to toss them in!

Step 4: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to introduce your cooled rice into the pan. Break apart any remaining chunks as you mix everything together. Allow it all to cook for about 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Feel free to adjust seasonings as needed!

Step 5: Shape Your Dish

Once cooked through, turn off the heat. For a fun presentation, pack some rice into a bowl and flip it over onto your plate! Top with freshly chopped cilantro for that pop of color.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Dig into your delicious Chili Oil Sinangag! It pairs wonderfully with Tofu Sisig, Adobo, or Mushroom Tocino—whatever makes your heart happy!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Making the perfect Chili Oil Sinangag is all about technique and personal touches. Here are some tips to help you achieve that delicious, flavorful fried rice!

• Use day-old rice – Leftover rice that has been refrigerated dries out a bit, which prevents it from becoming mushy when frying. This gives your sinangag the ideal texture!

• Adjust the chili oil – Depending on your spice tolerance, feel free to start with less chili oil and add more as needed. This way, you can customize the heat level to suit your taste buds!

• Cook garlic slowly – Cooking garlic over medium heat ensures it becomes golden and crispy without burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor, so patience is key here.

• Mix in extra ingredients – Adding vegetables or proteins like tofu or edamame can turn this dish into a more complete meal. It also adds variety and nutrients to your fried rice.

• Don’t skip the salt – Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients in your dish. Adjusting it according to taste will make your sinangag even more irresistible!

How to Serve Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Serving Chili Oil Sinangag can be a fun and creative process! Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up for a special occasion, there are plenty of ways to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions – A sprinkle of fresh scallions adds a burst of color and flavor that complements the rich garlic notes.
• Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds bring an extra layer of crunch and nuttiness, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Lime wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity.

Side Dishes

• Tofu Sisig – This plant-based twist on the classic sisig offers a savory, crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with your spicy fried rice.
• Adobo-Style Jackfruit – Tender jackfruit cooked in soy sauce with spices provides a deliciously savory contrast while keeping things plant-based.
• Mushroom Tocino – Sweet and savory marinated mushrooms make for an excellent side that complements the richness of chili oil sinangag.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of vibrant stir-fried vegetables not only adds nutrition but also brings freshness to each bite of your fried rice.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Oil Sinangag is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or just want to have some delicious leftovers, this recipe has got you covered.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the rice cool down after cooking.
• Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated rice, microwave it in a bowl with a splash of water to help steam it.
• For frozen rice, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice):

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Chili Oil Sinangag?

Absolutely! Brown rice will work just as well. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

What can I pair with Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with various proteins like tofu stir-fries, grilled vegetables, or any of your favorite meat alternatives. It’s versatile!

How can I customize my Chili Oil Sinangag?

You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Adding proteins such as chickpeas or edamame also enhances its nutritional value and flavor!

Is there a vegetarian alternative to chili oil?

Yes! You can create your own chili oil using plant-based oils such as olive or avocado oil mixed with dried chilies and spices.

Final Thoughts

Chili Oil Sinangag is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. It combines simplicity with bold flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. I hope you enjoy making this delightful fried garlic rice as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!