What is the best rice to use for fried rice?
When it comes to making the best fried rice, the choice of rice is crucial. Here are some of the top recommendations based on various sources:
Long-Grain Rice
- Jasmine Rice: This is often considered one of the best options for fried rice. Jasmine rice has a light, fragrant aroma and a texture that is fluffy yet slightly chewy. It does not clump easily, making it ideal for achieving individual grains that crisp up well during stir-frying125.
Basmati Rice
- Basmati rice is another excellent choice due to its long, slender grains and non-sticky consistency. It holds up well to the high heat and vigorous stirring of stir-frying, ensuring each grain remains separate and light24.
Medium-Grain Rice
- Day-Old Medium-Grain Rice: This type of rice strikes a balance between the fluffiness of long-grain rice and the stickiness of short-grain rice. When refrigerated overnight, the moisture content reduces, making it perfect for fried rice as it crisps up well without becoming mushy24.
Brown Rice
- Brown rice can also be used for a heartier, more nutritious version of fried rice. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, and it retains more fiber and nutrients compared to white rice2.
What to Avoid
- Short-Grain Rice: Rice varieties like Japanese sushi rice or glutinous rice are not ideal because they are too sticky and tend to clump together during stir-frying125.
General Tips
- Use Cold, Day-Old Rice: Regardless of the type, using cold, day-old rice is crucial. This allows the starches to harden, making the rice easier to separate and cook evenly125.
- Break Up Clumps: Before stir-frying, break up any clumps of rice to ensure even browning and crisping134.
By choosing the right type of rice and following these tips, you can achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your fried rice.