Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups day-old cooked rice (chilled)
- 8–10 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the ingredients. Ensure your cooked rice is cold and day-old, as this helps it fry without clumping. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Chop the green onions for garnish later.
- Step 2: Heat the oil. In a large non-stick pan or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Fry the garlic, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and aromatic (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tastes bitter.
- Step 3: Add the rice. Add the day-old cooked rice to the pan. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break up any large clumps of rice, ensuring it mixes well with the garlic and oil.
- Step 4: Season and fry. Season the rice with salt and black pepper (if using). Continue to fry the rice, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. Allow the rice to slightly toast at the bottom before stirring again, this creates a desirable texture.
- Step 5: Serve. Once the rice is thoroughly heated through and fragrant, transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot, typically as a breakfast side dish with fried eggs, longganisa, or other Filipino viands.
Notes
- The secret to truly delicious sinangag is perfectly golden garlic; pull it from the heat just before it darkens to prevent any bitterness and keep that wonderful aroma.
- Keep any uneaten garlic rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making sure to cool it quickly after cooking.
- For fluffy leftovers, gently reheat in a pan with a splash of water and a tiny bit of oil, or microwave with a damp paper towel over the bowl.
- While a classic with fried eggs and longganisa, this fragrant rice also shines as a savory side to grilled meats, crispy fried fish, or even a simple sunny-side-up egg for a quick meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American