Cơm Chiên Tỏi (Vietnamese Garlic Fried Rice)
Cơm chiên tỏi uses cold day-old jasmine rice, crisp garlic, egg, fish sauce, and scallions for a fragrant Vietnamese fried rice.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
A polished English infographic for the whole cooking flow, paired with the full written recipe below for detail and SEO.
Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Break up the cold rice so no large clumps remain.
- 2
Fry half the garlic gently until golden and crisp; remove for garnish.
- 3
Increase the heat, scramble the eggs briefly, then add the rice and remaining garlic.
- 4
Stir-fry until the grains are hot and separate.
- 5
Season with fish sauce, sugar, white pepper, and scallions.
- 6
Top with crisp garlic and serve with cucumber and optional seasoned fish sauce.
Cook notes
Tips
Use day-old rice for better texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference for a stronger garlic taste.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Substitutions
- Use long-grain rice instead of jasmine if preferred.
- Can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.
What to Serve With
- Grilled chicken
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Tofu in garlic sauce
Common Mistakes
- Overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not using day-old rice can make the dish mushy.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, day-old jasmine rice works best as it prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil is recommended for frying, but you can also use peanut oil for added flavor.
Can I add vegetables or proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add peas, carrots, or even leftover chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Wok
Helpful for stir-fries, fried rice, and fast high-heat noodle dishes.
Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
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