Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Here’s a twist on the classic Filipino Fried Garlic Rice or Sinangag – Chili Oil Sinangag! This dish brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the heat of chili oil, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with your favorite protein or vegetables, or even enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Twist: The homemade chili oil adds a spicy kick that elevates traditional fried garlic rice.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in 25 minutes!
• Versatile Dish: Customize your Chili Oil Sinangag by adding in your choice of vegetables or proteins for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is ideal for using up leftover rice, turning what could be wasted into a delicious dish.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, this fried garlic rice suits any meal and pleases any crowd.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice), you will need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or non-stick pan
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or non-stick pan: A good-quality pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, which is crucial for achieving that perfect fried rice texture.
• Spatula: This tool allows you to easily mix the ingredients without breaking apart the rice too much.

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Ingredients

For the Rice

• 2 cups white rice or grain of choice (cooked and cooled—leftover is best!)

For the Flavoring

• 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)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Break apart any large chunks of your leftover rice. I use rice from the previous day that’s been refrigerated so a lot of moisture has evaporated.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Heat a large wok or non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chili oil. Add in the salt and mix into the oil. Keep an eye out on the chili oil sediments since these can burn quickly.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Add in the garlic and cook over medium heat until golden brown or cooked to your liking. If desired, you can mix in other vegetables or protein of choice to enhance this fried rice.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Mixture

Add in the leftover cooked and cooled rice, breaking apart any chunks if necessary. Mix the rice into the oil and garlic, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Feel free to season with more salt and chili oil to taste if you’d like.

Step 5: Serve with Style

Turn off the heat. I like to stuff some of my rice into a bowl so I can flip it over to create a dome shape. Top with some chopped cilantro for added freshness.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve your Chili Oil Sinangag with your favorite ulam (viand)! I love having mine with Tofu Sisig, Adobo, and Mushroom Tocino.

How to Serve Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Chili Oil Sinangag is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. This flavorful fried garlic rice pairs well with various dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Tofu Sisig

• A spicy and savory tofu dish that complements the heat of the chili oil in the rice.

Accompanied by Adobo

• Classic Filipino chicken or beef adobo adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances well with the garlic rice.

Served Alongside Mushroom Tocino

• Sweet and savory mushroom tocino provides a delightful contrast to the spice of the fried garlic rice.

As a Base for Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Load your plate with colorful vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce for a nutritious meal.

With Grilled Chicken or Beef

• Juicy grilled chicken or beef enhances the flavors of the chili oil sinangag, creating a satisfying combination.

Mixed with Fresh Cilantro and Lime

• Brighten up your dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added freshness and zest.

How to Perfect Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Perfecting your Chili Oil Sinangag is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure you create a delicious dish every time.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice has less moisture, making it ideal for frying without clumping together.
• Adjust Chili Oil Level: Tailor the amount of chili oil to your heat preference; more oil means spicier rice.
• Monitor Garlic Carefully: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks; burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of your dish.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in vegetables or protein like chicken and shrimp for added nutrition and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Season gradually, tasting throughout cooking to achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving enhances freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

Chili Oil Sinangag makes for a hearty main dish but shines even brighter when paired with delightful side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch, providing essential nutrients.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter complements the flavors of the fried rice beautifully.
3. Eggplant Salad: A refreshing salad made from grilled eggplant mixed with tomatoes and onions offers a smoky flavor profile.
4. Spicy Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rice.
5. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables provide texture and are fun to eat alongside.
6. Savory Chicken Wings: Crispy wings coated in your favorite sauce make for a satisfying pairing with fried rice.
7. Creamy Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado salad brings richness that balances out the spicy notes in the rice.
8. Mango Salsa: A vibrant mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, enhancing each bite of chili oil sinangag.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Oil Sinangag, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using fresh rice – Freshly cooked rice is often too moist. Use leftover rice that has been refrigerated to achieve the best texture.
• Overcooking garlic – Garlic can burn quickly. Watch it closely and remove it from heat once it turns golden brown to avoid a bitter taste.
• Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough salt or chili oil can make your fried rice bland. Taste and adjust as you cook for maximum flavor.
• Not breaking apart clumps – Leaving large chunks of rice can result in uneven cooking. Always break apart any clumps before adding them to the pan.
• Forgetting about garnish – Skip the cilantro, and you miss out on freshness. Always remember to add herbs for a pop of flavor and color.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 1 month; label with date for tracking.

Reheating Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice)?

Chili Oil Sinangag is a spicy twist on traditional Filipino fried garlic rice, using homemade chili oil for added flavor.

Can I customize my Chili Oil Sinangag?

Yes! Feel free to mix in vegetables or proteins like chicken or tofu to enhance this dish according to your preferences.

How do I make homemade chili oil?

To make homemade chili oil, combine vegetable oil with dried chilies and garlic in a saucepan over low heat until fragrant. Let cool before using.

What should I serve with Chili Oil Sinangag?

Chili Oil Sinangag pairs well with various dishes, such as Tofu Sisig, Adobo, or any protein of your choice.

Final Thoughts

Chili Oil Sinangag (Fried Garlic Rice) is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish makes a great side or main course and will surely impress anyone who tries it!