Are you tired of the same old fried rice and looking for a dish that explodes with flavor? Look no further than Bang Bang Fried Rice. This recipe is a vibrant fusion dish that combines the comfort of classic fried rice with the creamy, spicy, and sweet kick of the famous “Bang Bang” sauce. It’s incredibly versatile, quick to whip up on a busy weeknight, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Perfect for using up leftover rice, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that’s both satisfying and exciting. Let’s dive in and create some magic in your kitchen!
What You’ll Need: Bang Bang Fried Rice Ingredients
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to use whatever vegetables or protein you have on hand. The star is the irresistible Bang Bang sauce.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Japanese Kewpie mayo is highly recommended for extra umami)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked rice, preferably chilled overnight (white jasmine, basmati, or brown rice work great)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, corn, diced carrots – fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Protein Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu, diced
For Garnish:
- Extra green onion slices
- Sesame seeds
- A lime wedge
How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for perfect, non-soggy, flavor-packed fried rice every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk until the sauce is completely smooth and has a uniform, creamy, light orange color. Taste and adjust the spice level with more Sriracha if desired. Set this sauce aside. This can be done a day in advance.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat a large wok or a spacious non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Let them set for a few seconds, then gently scramble until they are just cooked through but still soft. Quickly transfer them to a clean plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onion and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Now, add your mixed vegetables. If using frozen, no need to thaw just stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and tender-crisp.
Step 4: The Fried Rice Base
Push the vegetables to one side of the wok. Add the remaining oil to the empty space, then add the cold, cooked rice. Use your spatula to break up any large clumps. Let the rice sit for about 30 seconds to get a slight crisp, then toss it together with the vegetables.
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil directly over the rice. Toss and stir-fry continuously for 2-3 minutes until the rice is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 5: Combine and Sauce It Up
Return the scrambled eggs to the wok, along with your cooked protein (if using). Add about 3/4 of the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Toss everything together vigorously until every grain of rice and piece of vegetable is beautifully coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Cook for another minute until everything is piping hot.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
Turn off the heat. Stir in most of the green parts of the green onions. Give it one final toss.
Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Drizzle the remaining Bang Bang sauce over the top for an extra flavor boost and a gorgeous presentation. Garnish generously with the reserved green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately with a lime wedge on the side for a hint of fresh acidity.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Fried Rice
- The Rice is Key: Always use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and steamy, which will result in mushy, clumpy fried rice. Chilling it overnight dries it out, giving you those perfect, separate grains.
- High Heat is Your Friend: A very hot wok or skillet is essential. It sears the ingredients quickly, preventing them from stewing in their own juices.
- Prep Everything in Advance (Mise en Place): Fried rice cooks very fast. Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and lined up next to the stove before you turn on the heat.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce feels too thick to drizzle, you can thin it out with a tiny splash of water or lime juice.
- Customize Freely: This recipe is a canvas! Try it with broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Swap the protein for crispy bacon or spam. Make it vegan by using vegan mayo and skipping the eggs.
Ready to Bang Bang Your Taste Buds?
Bang Bang Fried Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious experience that marries familiar comfort with exciting new flavors. It’s incredibly forgiving for beginners yet impressive enough for seasoned cooks to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking a quick solo dinner or need a crowd-pleasing dish for friends, this recipe delivers on all fronts. So, raid your fridge, grab that leftover rice, and get ready to create a dish that’s bursting with creamy, spicy, sweet, and savory goodness in every single bite. Don’t forget to take a picture of your creation—it’s going to be beautiful! Now, go fire up that wok and enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Fried Rice
