Fried Rice with Peanuts, Chilies & Cilantro
Fragrant fried rice tossed with crunchy peanuts, fresh cilantro, and chilies for a bright, savory finish. A little nutty, a little herby, and deeply satisfying.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: ~25 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
3 cups cooked, cold rice (basmati or jasmine works best)
2 tbsp neutral oil (peanut, sunflower, or vegetable)
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional but recommended)
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1–2 green chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin (optional, adds depth)
½ tsp sugar or honey
½ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
½ cup scallions or spring onions, sliced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Fresh lime juice, to finish
Salt & black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Heat the pan:
Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add neutral oil and sesame oil.
2. Cook the eggs:
Pour in eggs and scramble quickly. Once just set, push to the side.
3. Aromatics:
Add garlic and chilies. Stir for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown)
4. Rice time:
Add cold rice, breaking up clumps. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until hot and lightly toasted.
5. Season:
Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Toss well to coat evenly.
6. Finish:
Add peanuts and scallions. Cook another 1–2 minutes.
Turn off heat and fold in cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
🌟 Tips for Great Fried Rice
Cold rice is key—fresh rice turns mushy.
Keep heat high and stir fast for smoky flavor.
Add sauces around the edge of the pan for better caramelization.
🔄 Variations
Protein add-ins: Shrimp, chicken, tofu, or edamame
Veg boost: Peas, carrots, bell peppers, or green beans
Extra crunch: Cashews instead of peanuts
Milder version: Skip chilies and add black pepper instead
❓ Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Is it very spicy?
No—1 chili gives warmth, not fire. Adjust easily.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Skip eggs and use soy + hoisin only.
Best rice type?
Basmati (light & fluffy) or jasmine (slightly sticky).
🥗 Nutritional Highlights
Calories: ~380
Good balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats
Naturally dairy-free
Customizable sodium & spice levels