Garlic Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Rice is all about big flavor with minimal effort. The deep aroma and taste of sautéed garlic infused into each grain of rice make it both comforting and irresistible. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and can be made with just a handful of pantry ingredients. Naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan, Garlic Rice works well as a main dish or a flavorful side to complement curries, stir-fries, or grilled foods.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked rice (preferably cooled or day-old rice)
• Garlic cloves (finely chopped or minced)
• Oil or ghee
• Mustard seeds (optional)
• Cumin seeds
• Dried red chilies or green chilies (as preferred)
• Curry leaves (optional)
• Turmeric powder
• Red chili flakes or powder
• Salt
• Fresh coriander leaves or spring onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Add dried red chilies or green chilies and curry leaves if using. Sauté briefly.
4. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté on low heat until golden and aromatic. Be careful not to burn it.
5. Add turmeric powder, chili flakes or powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add the cooked rice and toss gently to coat it evenly with the garlic and spices.
7. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the rice is heated through and aromatic.
8. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves or spring onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people and takes about 20 minutes to prepare using pre-cooked rice.

Variations

• Make it vegan: Use oil instead of ghee.
• Add protein: Toss in scrambled tofu, paneer, or sautéed chickpeas.
• Garlic overload: Use a mix of fresh garlic and roasted garlic for deeper flavor.
• Herbed garlic rice: Add chopped parsley, basil, or mint for an herbal twist.
• Crunchy garlic: Reserve a portion of fried garlic to sprinkle on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store Garlic Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it fluffy.

FAQs

What type of rice is best for Garlic Rice?

Day-old long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine works best for a non-sticky, fluffy texture.

Can I use garlic paste instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred for flavor and texture, but paste can be used in a pinch—just reduce the quantity.

Is Garlic Rice spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on how much chili you add. Adjust to your taste.

Can I skip mustard or cumin seeds?

Yes, they add extra flavor but the dish still tastes great without them.

What can I serve with Garlic Rice?

It pairs well with stir-fried vegetables, curries, grilled tofu, or a fried egg.

Can I add soy sauce or vinegar?

Yes, for a fusion twist, you can add a splash of soy sauce and a few drops of vinegar.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made ahead for lunchboxes or meal prep.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, brown rice works well and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

How do I prevent garlic from burning?

Cook it on low heat and stir continuously until it turns golden—watch it closely.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, reduce the chili and keep the garlic mild for a kid-friendly version.

Conclusion

Garlic Rice is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that transforms humble ingredients into something special. With its bold aroma, toasty garlic flavor, and warm spices, it’s an excellent way to reinvent leftover rice or whip up a quick, satisfying meal. Whether served solo or as a side, Garlic Rice is a recipe worth adding to your weekly rotation.

Garlic Rice

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Garlic Rice is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish made by sautéing garlic with cooked rice and spices. Quick, bold, and satisfying, it’s a perfect use for leftover rice and ideal for garlic lovers.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled or day-old)
• 6–8 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1–2 dried red chilies or green chilies (as preferred)
• 6–8 curry leaves (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves or spring onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds (if using) and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Add dried red chilies or green chilies and curry leaves, sauté briefly.
4. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté on low heat until golden and aromatic. Do not burn.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili flakes or powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add the cooked rice and toss gently to combine with the garlic and spices.
7. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through and fragrant.
8. Garnish with coriander leaves or spring onions and serve hot.

Notes

• Use day-old rice to prevent mushiness and ensure fluffy texture.
• Always sauté garlic on low heat to avoid burning.
• Add protein like tofu, paneer, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
• For deeper flavor, add a mix of roasted and fresh garlic.
• Use oil instead of ghee for a vegan version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 225
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg