Name: Bang Bang Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and bell peppers); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha; Salt and pepper to taste

Bang Bang Fried Rice: A Flavorful Family Delight

Are you looking for a dish that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors? Look no further than Bang Bang Fried Rice! This delightful recipe brings together the comforting texture of fried rice with the alluring taste of a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. As you dive into this dish, the aroma of sautéed vegetables and garlic wafts through your kitchen, giving you a warm embrace right from the start. The medley of colors from the bright bell peppers, verdant peas, and specks of green onions makes this a feast for the eyes, while the taste is a delightful dance of savory sweetness and spice.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Bang Bang Fried Rice adapts beautifully, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s the kind of recipe that your family will ask for again and again, with its creamy texture contrasting nicely against the fluffy rice. That’s right — when you take that first bite, expect a little zing on your taste buds that leaves you craving for more. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that’s just waiting to grace your dinner table!

Understanding This Recipe

Bang Bang Fried Rice takes its inspiration from the popular "bang bang" sauce, which typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of Sriracha for a spicy kick. This dish is a fusion masterpiece that melds traditional Asian fried rice with Western flavor profiles, showcasing how versatile rice can be. The origins may lean towards Asian cuisine, particularly influenced by Southeast Asian tastes, but the essence of Bang Bang Fried Rice is global, bringing everyone together at the dinner table.

What makes this fried rice variation extra special is its adaptability to different cooking methods, whether you use a skillet on the stovetop, a rice cooker, or even an air fryer. These methods help to lock in the flavors while delivering a perfect texture. Usually served as a standalone dish or as a side, this fried rice can elevate any meal, from casual lunches to festive dinners. Plus, the beauty of one-pan meals means you’ll have minimal cleanup afterward!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Fried Rice

This recipe will earn a special spot in your kitchen for numerous reasons.

Ease of Preparation: It’s quick to whip together, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Flavor Complexity: The combination of the creamy sauce, crisp veggies, and perfectly cooked rice creates a melange of flavors that’s satisfying and comforting.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike — the fun, creamy sauce and colorful veggies make it as appealing as it is delicious.
Budget-Friendly: You can easily modify the recipe based on what you have in your pantry, allowing for creative freedoms without breaking the bank.
Ingredient Flexibility: Use any vegetables you prefer; the recipe is versatile enough to adapt to seasonal or personal favorites.

Let’s Cook Bang Bang Fried Rice at Home!

To make this light and spicy dish, all you need is a good non-stick skillet and your ingredients ready to go. The process is straightforward, making it suitable for beginner cooks. You’ll find yourself immersed in the delicious aroma of frying, with a prep time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Fluffy and slightly sticky, jasmine rice has the perfect texture for fried rice; you can also use day-old rice for best results.
1 cup mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and bell peppers): Utilize frozen vegetables for convenience, adding crunch and color.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is used for sautéing and creates a nice golden crust on the rice.
2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh, mild onion flavor throughout the dish.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: This gives the bang bang sauce a creamy base.
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: A touch of sweetness to balance the heat from the sauce.
1 tablespoon Sriracha: For those who love a bit of a kick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together.

Directions

Prepare the Rice: If you haven’t already, cook your jasmine rice according to package instructions (or use leftover rice). Allow it to cool slightly; this helps prevent soggy fried rice.
Mix the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Stir until smooth and set aside. The aroma will be both creamy and slightly tangy.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they are bright and tender.
Add Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking any clumps apart with your spatula. Stir well, letting it fry for about 2–3 minutes. It should start to smell toasty and delicious.
Flavor it Up: Pour the bang bang sauce over the rice, stirring well until everything is evenly coated. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a wonderfully fragrant dish.
Finish with Green Onions: Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. The dish should be vibrant and fragrant, with a lovely balance of colors.
Serve Warm: Serve your delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice hot, either as a solo dish or alongside your favorite protein. Enjoy the creamy, flavorsome bites!

Delicious Pairings for Bang Bang Fried Rice

Serving Bang Bang Fried Rice is a joyful experience, given its flexibility. Here are some complementary sides and accompaniments:

Grilled Chicken: A drizzle of sweet-soy glaze over grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the rice’s creamy texture, adding a savory kick.
Shrimp Stir-Fry: Tossing in a quick shrimp stir-fry offers a light and fresh protein option that complements the rich flavors of the fried rice.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw with lime and sesame will contrast nicely with the creamy rice, keeping flavors balanced while adding a refreshing element.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp provide a satisfying crunch, rounding out the meal with diverse textures.

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Fried Rice

Technique matters in creating a satisfying Bang Bang Fried Rice. Here are some suggestions:

Choose the Right Rice: Day-old rice is your best friend; it’s drier and fries better than freshly cooked rice.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, fry in smaller batches to keep the rice crispy instead of steamy.
Play with Spices: After cooking, you can adjust the spiciness of the sauce; feel free to experiment with chili flakes or even a splash of lime.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations & Add-Ins

To make Bang Bang Fried Rice even more versatile, consider these variations:

Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to hearten the dish and make it a full meal.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the protein for more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or use cooked lentils for added nutrition.
Spice Lover’s Edition: Increase the Sriracha or add a sprinkle of chili oil to amplify the heat for heat-seekers.
Herbaceous Touch: Try adding fresh cilantro or Thai basil at the end for a fragrant herbal bite.

Kid-Friendly Version

To make the dish appealing to children, try these adjustments:

Milder Sauce: Use less Sriracha or substitute it with ketchup for a slightly sweet and appealing sauce.
Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to form the fried rice into interesting shapes, making it visually engaging.
Add Fruits: Introduce a side of lightly sautéed pineapple for a sweet and juicy contrast that kids will love.

Storing and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice, opt for airtight containers. This will keep your dish fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you find yourself with a lot of leftovers, freezing is always an option. Portion servings in freezer-safe containers, and they can last up to a month. When packing for the freezer, let the rice cool completely to ensure it doesn’t form ice crystals.

Reheating can be done in several ways. If you’re aiming for that desirable texture, the stovetop is ideal. Simply heat a skillet on medium, add a splash of oil, and toss in the rice until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, using a damp paper towel over the bowl to retain moisture. For even better texture, consider using an air fryer, which will help reinvigorate the rice’s crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I prep the ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepping the vegetables and making the bang bang sauce ahead of time can streamline the cooking process. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

What can I use as a substitute for jasmine rice?
You can use long-grain rice, basmati, or even quinoa for a healthier alternative. The texture might vary slightly but will still work well.

Can I make this dish spicy enough for adults?
Definitely! Increase the amount of Sriracha in the sauce or even add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking to get that heat level just right.

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce in the bang bang sauce, this dish can easily cater to gluten-free diets.

How long does it take to cook?
From start to finish, Bang Bang Fried Rice can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal option.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience brimming with vibrant flavors, delightful textures, and warming aromas. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick dinner solution that’s also a hit with both children and adults. It’s family-friendly, adaptable, and guarantees a smile at the dinner table. So go ahead, try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!

Bang Bang Fried Rice

Print Recipe

A quick and flavorful fried rice dish featuring a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy jasmine rice.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions or use leftover rice. Allow it to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to make the bang bang sauce.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté mixed vegetables for 3–4 minutes until bright and tender.
Add cooked rice, breaking apart clumps, and fry for 2–3 minutes until toasty.
Pour the bang bang sauce over the rice, stirring to coat, and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Stir in chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a protein of your choice.