Basil Fried Rice

Every time I make Basil Fried Rice, it brings back memories of my college days when I used to whip it up after long hours of studying. One particularly hectic week, I discovered this dish as a quick and satisfying way to refuel. The fragrant aroma of fresh basil mingling with the warm, fluffy rice filled my tiny kitchen, creating a sense of comfort that made the stress melt away. It’s a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your heart. I still remember savoring each bite, the creamy coconut milk wrapping around the rice, creating a symphony of flavors that transported me back home. It’s funny how a simple meal can evoke such strong memories, isn’t it? Now, I love to prepare Basil Fried Rice not just for myself but also for friends and family. It’s a quick weeknight dinner, a delicious way to use up leftovers, and a dish that impresses anyone who tries it!

What You Need for Basil Fried Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making a delicious Basil Fried Rice. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting. The star of this recipe is the fresh basil, which adds a fragrant, aromatic quality. The creamy coconut milk enriches the dish, making it decadent and smooth. Let’s take a look at the key players that come together in this delightful meal.

• 1 cup white rice (uncooked, yields around 3 cups cooked) – A staple that forms the base, giving you that satisfying texture.
• 2/3 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
• 5 basil leaves (plus more for serving) – Fresh herbs that elevate the dish with their aromatic essence.
• 1/2 small yellow onion (finely chopped) – Brings in a sweet onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) – A must-have for its aromatic qualities, adding depth to the flavors.
• 1 large carrot (peeled and chopped) – Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 small crown broccoli (chopped into florets) – Provides a nice crunch and nutritional benefits.
• 1 cup frozen peas – Quick to use and adds a lovely sweetness.
• 3 stalks green onion (chopped) – Brightens the dish with its fresh onion flavor.
• 3 eggs (scrambled) – Adds protein and richness.
• Sea salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Recipe Steps for Basil Fried Rice

Cooking Basil Fried Rice is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these easy steps to bring this dish to life, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time! Let’s get started with your ingredients and equipment ready.

1. Begin by steaming 1 cup of white rice. This process will yield around 3 cups of cooked rice, which will serve as the satisfying base for your dish. Make sure the rice is fluffy and cooked through; you don’t want any mushy texture.
2. Add the coconut milk and basil leaves to a small blender and blend until combined. If you don’t have a blender, finely chop the basil leaves and mix well with the coconut milk for that same fresh flavor.
3. Pour the coconut milk-basil mixture into a large skillet and heat to medium. This is where the magic begins! You’ll want to see it bubble slightly, releasing that fragrant aroma.
4. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes. You’re looking for a translucent appearance; this indicates the onion is softening and sweetening up beautifully.
5. Now, it’s time to add the garlic, carrot, broccoli, peas, and green onion. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the vegetables are coated in that aromatic mixture. Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.
6. In a separate skillet, scramble the eggs until cooked. Make sure they’re fluffy and well distributed; this adds a lovely texture to your Basil Fried Rice.
7. Finally, add the cooked white rice to the skillet with the coconut milk and vegetables. Stir well to combine everything into a harmonious blend. You want to ensure every grain of rice is coated!
8. Stir in the scrambled eggs and season with sea salt to taste. Remember to taste as you go to get the flavor just right.
9. Once everything is mixed and heated through, it’s ready to serve! You can garnish with additional basil leaves for that fresh touch.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Basil Fried Rice is its versatility. You can get creative with it! Here are some great ideas to make this dish your own:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld and intensify.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fried rice. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve Basil Fried Rice alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or stir in some sriracha for an extra kick.
• Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, toss in some roasted cashews or peanuts just before serving.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile.

How to Enjoy Basil Fried Rice

• As a Main Course: Enjoy Basil Fried Rice on its own as a filling main dish. It’s hearty enough to be satisfying without any protein.
• Lunch or Dinner: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is ideal for any time of the day.
• Seasonal Pairings: In spring, enjoy it with fresh peas and asparagus. During summer, add zucchini or bell peppers for a light touch.
• Great for Gatherings: Make a large batch for family gatherings or potlucks. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge; simply reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to eat.
• Perfect for Ramadan: This dish is great for Iftar, offering a hearty and comforting meal after a day of fasting.

FAQ

Conclusion

Basil Fried Rice stands out as a wonderfully comforting and versatile dish that anyone can enjoy. It’s a fantastic way to combine fresh ingredients into a quick meal that’s packed with flavors. I encourage you to try making it tonight—it’s sure to impress your family and friends, and you might find it becoming a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Basil Fried Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Basil Fried Rice combines creamy coconut milk with fresh vegetables and aromatic basil. This easy weeknight dinner is not only satisfying but also a delightful explosion of flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it's sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Thai

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Blender
• Food Processor
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup white rice uncooked (3 cups cooked)
• 2/3 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
• 5 basil leaves + more for serving
• 1/2 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 large carrot peeled and chopped
• 1 small crown broccoli chopped into florets
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 stalks green onion chopped
• 3 eggs scrambled
• sea salt to taste

Instructions

 

• Begin by steaming 1 cup of white rice. This process will yield around 3 cups of cooked rice, which will serve as the satisfying base for your dish. Make sure the rice is fluffy and cooked through; you don’t want any mushy texture.
• Add the coconut milk and basil leaves to a small blender and blend until combined. If you don’t have a blender, finely chop the basil leaves and mix well with the coconut milk for that same fresh flavor.
• Pour the coconut milk-basil mixture into a large skillet and heat to medium. This is where the magic begins! You’ll want to see it bubble slightly, releasing that fragrant aroma.
• Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes. You’re looking for a translucent appearance; this indicates the onion is softening and sweetening up beautifully.
• Now, it’s time to add the garlic, carrot, broccoli, peas, and green onion. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the vegetables are coated in that aromatic mixture. Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.
• In a separate skillet, scramble the eggs until cooked. Make sure they’re fluffy and well distributed; this adds a lovely texture to your Basil Fried Rice.
• Finally, add the cooked white rice to the skillet with the coconut milk and vegetables. Stir well to combine everything into a harmonious blend. You want to ensure every grain of rice is coated!
• Stir in the scrambled eggs and season with sea salt to taste. Remember to taste as you go to get the flavor just right.
• Once everything is mixed and heated through, it’s ready to serve! You can garnish with additional basil leaves for that fresh touch.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld and intensify.
• Tip 2: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the fried rice. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve Basil Fried Rice alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: If you like heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or stir in some sriracha for an extra kick.
• Tip 5: For a crunchy texture, toss in some roasted cashews or peanuts just before serving.

Keyword Basil Fried Rice, Easy Dinner Ideas, Quick Fried Rice Recipe, Vegetable Rice Dish

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.