This Filipino Garlic Fried Rice, also known as Sinangag, is a simple, flavorful dish made with leftover rice, lots of fresh garlic, and a little oil. With just four ingredients, it’s an easy way to turn plain rice into something delicious in about 15 minutes.
What I love most about this recipe is the garlic. Cooking it until lightly golden brown brings out its wonderful aroma and gives the rice a rich, savory flavor without needing a long list of seasonings.
This dish is traditionally enjoyed as part of a Filipino breakfast, this garlic fried rice is just as delicious for lunch or dinner. Serve it with eggs, your favorite protein, or alongside a hearty meal.
Tips for the Best Filipino Garlic Fried Rice
Use cold, cooked rice. Day-old rice works especially well because the grains are firmer and less likely to become mushy.
Break up the rice first. Separate any large clumps before adding the rice to the pan so it heats evenly.
Don’t burn the garlic. Cook the minced garlic over medium-low heat until lightly golden. Burnt garlic can make the entire dish taste bitter.
Use plenty of garlic. Fifteen cloves might sound like a lot, but garlic is the star of this recipe.
Choose a large skillet or wok. Giving the rice enough room helps it fry rather than steam.
Season gradually. Add salt to taste, especially if you’re serving the rice with a well-seasoned main dish.
What to Serve with Filipino Garlic Fried Rice
Filipino garlic fried rice is traditionally served with breakfast favorites, but it’s versatile enough to enjoy throughout the day.
I especially love pairing it with fried eggs. The creamy yolk adds richness and makes the rice even more satisfying.
You can also serve it with:
Fried eggs: A classic pairing for a Filipino-style breakfast.
Chicken tocino: Sweet and savory chicken complements the garlicky rice.
Beef tapa: Thinly sliced, marinated beef makes a delicious, hearty meal.
Fried fish (pan fried whiting fish, porgy fish, fried tilapia, fried red snapper): Crispy fish provides a wonderful contrast to the fluffy rice.
Fried chicken: A flavorful option for lunch or dinner.
Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp: A lighter pairing that works beautifully with the garlic.
For a complete meal, add sliced tomatoes or cucumbers on the side.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Fried Rice
Refrigerator: Transfer the rice to a shallow container, cool it quickly, and refrigerate promptly. Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days, counting from when the rice was originally cooked.
Freezer: Freeze cooled fried rice in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat the rice in a skillet with a small amount of oil or water until steaming hot throughout, reaching 165°F. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Food safety tip: Cooked rice should never be left sitting at room temperature for extended periods. Refrigerate it promptly after cooking and use only rice that has been stored safely.
Filipino Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok; For frying the garlic and rice evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula; For stirring and tossing the rice.
- Sharp knife; For mincing the garlic.
- Cutting Board For preparing the garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons For measuring the rice and oil.
- Fork; For breaking up clumps of cold rice before frying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled rice
- 4 tablespoons neutral oil
- 15 garlic cloves minced
- Soy Sauce; to taste or salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the rice. Break up any clumps in the cold, cooked rice using a fork or your hands. Set aside.Heat the oil. Add the neutral oil to a large skillet or wok over medium-low heat.Cook the garlic. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Add the rice. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cooked rice. Stir well to coat the grains with the garlic-infused oil.Fry the rice. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring and tossing frequently, until the rice is heated through and some grains are lightly toasted.Season and serve. Add soy sauce or salt to taste, toss once more, and serve immediately with your favorite breakfast or main dish.
Leave a Reply