Fried Rice on Blackstone: Easy & Delicious Griddle Recipe

Making fried rice on a blackstone griddle is a great way to add flavor and fun to a classic dish. This article will guide you through the process, offering tips and tricks for perfect results. Learn how to create delicious fried rice with a smoky, slightly crispy texture right on your blackstone.

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The Magic of Blackstone Fried Rice

Fried rice is already a wonderful meal, but cooking it on a blackstone takes it to a new level. The high, even heat of a blackstone helps to make each grain of rice slightly crisp. Additionally, the large cooking surface allows you to cook everything at once. Therefore, you get a meal that is not only delicious, but quick. This method is great for family meals or cooking for a crowd.

Why Use a Blackstone for Fried Rice?

Cooking fried rice on a blackstone griddle offers several advantages. First, the even heat distribution prevents hot spots, ensuring consistent cooking. Second, the large flat surface provides ample room to move and toss the ingredients. Third, the high heat creates a slightly charred, smoky flavor that’s impossible to replicate on a stovetop. Finally, cleanup is a breeze because the flat surface is easy to scrape clean.

Essential Equipment for Fried Rice on a Blackstone

Before starting, make sure you have all the right tools for the job. First, you will need a blackstone griddle. Also, you need a good set of spatulas, which will be helpful for flipping and mixing. In addition, have bowls ready for your prepared components. Finally, have your cooking oil ready to go in a squirt bottle for easy application. Using the right equipment can really make all the difference when making fried rice on a blackstone.

Preparing the Ingredients for Blackstone Fried Rice

Good fried rice starts with well-prepared ingredients. Here’s a guide to getting everything ready before you start cooking on the blackstone.

Choosing the Right Rice for Fried Rice

The type of rice you use matters significantly for good fried rice. Day-old, cooked rice works best. This is because fresh rice tends to be too sticky. Therefore, using day-old rice will make sure your fried rice turns out perfectly. Long-grain rice is a good choice because it is less likely to clump together. Another great option is medium-grain rice, which holds its shape well. Overall, the best rice for fried rice is slightly dry.

Selecting Your Fried Rice Add-Ins

The great thing about fried rice is that it’s quite flexible. You can add almost any type of protein or vegetable you like. For example, you might choose chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu. In addition, you may include vegetables such as carrots, peas, onions, and bell peppers. Moreover, eggs are a traditional addition. Therefore, do not be afraid to get creative and use what you have on hand.

Seasoning and Sauce for Fried Rice

The seasoning and sauce are what give fried rice its unique flavor. Soy sauce is the classic base. However, you can also add other sauces like oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or fish sauce. Additionally, add some flavor by including sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Furthermore, if you like a little heat you may add chili garlic sauce. Basically, you can use your favorite flavors to create a signature dish.

Cooking Fried Rice on Your Blackstone

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part: cooking the fried rice on the blackstone griddle.

Preheating the Blackstone Griddle

First, preheat your blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. This is a very important step because the pan needs to be hot. You want a nice sizzling sound when you add the oil. Additionally, make sure your griddle surface is clean. Accordingly, the griddle needs to be ready for cooking before you add anything. Therefore, a well-preheated griddle is key for perfect fried rice.

Cooking the Fried Rice Components

Start by adding oil to the hot blackstone griddle. Then, add your protein and cook it through. Move it to the side of the griddle. Next, add any vegetables you are using. Cook until they are tender-crisp. Move them over with the protein. Finally, add your scrambled eggs and cook until they are done. Afterward, gather everything in the center of the griddle.

Combining and Seasoning the Fried Rice

First, add your cooked rice to the griddle. Then, mix it with the other ingredients. Next, add your chosen sauces and sesame oil. Finally, keep tossing and mixing the fried rice until it is heated through. Meanwhile, allow some of the rice to touch the hot griddle for a few seconds to crisp. This will add a new level of texture and flavor. Therefore, this process of cooking and mixing is essential for good blackstone fried rice.

Tips for Perfect Blackstone Fried Rice

Generally, the key to great fried rice is to keep things moving. Do not overcrowd the blackstone with too much food. Use day-old rice that has been cooled to make sure it isn’t sticky. Also, cook in batches for best results. Additionally, season in layers to ensure every grain of rice has flavor. Finally, do not be afraid to experiment with different flavors.

Fried Rice on Blackstone: Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to guide you in making excellent fried rice on a blackstone.

Ingredients

3 cups of cooked day-old rice
1 tablespoon of cooking oil
1 lb of your chosen protein (chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu)
1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, onions, bell peppers)
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 teaspoon of minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon of minced ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Optionally, a pinch of chili flakes or chili garlic sauce

Instructions

First, preheat your blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
Next, drizzle cooking oil onto the griddle.
Then, add your protein and cook until done. Remove it from the griddle.
Afterward, add the vegetables and cook until tender-crisp. Move them to the side.
Subsequently, pour the beaten eggs onto the griddle and cook, scrambling them. Set aside.
Next, add the cooked rice to the griddle and break it up.
Then, add the protein, vegetables, and eggs back to the rice.
Afterward, drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Add other spices as desired.
Toss everything together and let the rice get slightly crisp. Serve hot.

Serving and Enjoying Your Blackstone Fried Rice

After all your hard work you will want to serve and enjoy your delicious blackstone fried rice.

Serving Suggestions for Fried Rice

Fried rice is a complete meal on its own. However, you can also serve it with other sides. For example, a light salad, egg rolls, or spring rolls would be a good choice. In addition, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like green onions or cilantro. Finally, make sure to serve it immediately while it is still hot. Therefore, the perfect presentation can elevate the entire dining experience.

Pairing Drinks with Your Fried Rice

The right drink can really compliment your meal. For example, iced tea is a classic choice for fried rice. Also, light beers or white wines can be a good pairing. Another great option is a refreshing glass of lemonade. Therefore, you will be sure to find the perfect drink to go with your homemade fried rice.

Storing Leftover Fried Rice

If you have leftover fried rice, make sure to store it properly. First, let the fried rice cool completely before refrigerating it. Then, place the leftovers in an airtight container. Generally, you should use it within three days for the best quality. Additionally, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the blackstone griddle. Therefore, proper storage is key for the best flavor and safety.

Advanced Techniques for Blackstone Fried Rice

For those looking to elevate their blackstone fried rice, there are several advanced techniques you can explore. These methods can add extra layers of flavor and texture to your dish.

Infusing Oil with Aromatics

To infuse your fried rice with more complex flavors, start by infusing your cooking oil with aromatics. For instance, heat the oil on the blackstone and add garlic cloves, ginger slices, and even a star anise. Then, allow them to sizzle gently for a few minutes until their fragrance is released. Remove the aromatics before adding the other ingredients. Accordingly, this infused oil will give a richer, more nuanced base to your dish. Therefore, consider experimenting with different aromatics to find what you like best.

Using Different Types of Soy Sauce

Explore using a blend of soy sauces for a more sophisticated flavor profile. For example, try combining a light soy sauce for saltiness with a dark soy sauce for color and depth. Additionally, a splash of tamari can add an extra umami note. Moreover, consider experimenting with mushroom soy sauce for a richer flavor. Therefore, mixing different sauces can really enhance the taste of your blackstone fried rice.

Adding a Touch of Char

Achieving the perfect char on your blackstone fried rice is a skill that comes with practice. First, make sure your griddle is sufficiently hot. Then, use a technique of allowing the rice to sit undisturbed on the hot surface for a short period before tossing again. Specifically, this allows the rice to slightly scorch on the bottom, developing a smoky, charred taste. Consequently, a touch of char adds an incredible dimension to the dish. Hence, this method can transform an ordinary dish into a truly memorable one.

Incorporating Different Textures

Experiment with different ingredients to add more varied textures to your fried rice. For example, crunchy elements, such as water chestnuts, can provide a pleasant counterpoint to the softer rice. Additionally, consider adding toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. Moreover, you might add crispy fried onions or shallots. Therefore, by including ingredients with contrasting textures you will make your fried rice more exciting to eat.

Creative Fried Rice Variations on the Blackstone

Fried rice is a very versatile dish that offers many opportunities for creativity. You can adapt the base recipe by trying new ingredients and flavor combinations. Below are some ideas to inspire your next cooking adventure on the blackstone.

Spicy Sriracha Fried Rice

If you enjoy some heat, try making a sriracha version of fried rice. First, add a generous amount of sriracha sauce to your usual recipe. Additionally, include chili garlic sauce for an extra punch. Furthermore, consider adding some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes. Thus, this spicy variation is perfect for those who like a bold and fiery flavor profile.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice

For a seafood-inspired variation, try garlic butter shrimp fried rice. First, sauté shrimp on the blackstone with plenty of garlic butter. Then, add them to the cooked rice along with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Moreover, sprinkle some parsley over the top for a touch of freshness. Therefore, this version offers a rich and savory option.

Pineapple and Cashew Fried Rice

For a sweet and savory mix, explore pineapple and cashew fried rice. First, include chunks of fresh or canned pineapple in your recipe. Then, add toasted cashews for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Furthermore, a sprinkle of curry powder can also add a warm depth of flavor. Therefore, this variation creates a delightful blend of tastes and textures.

Vegetarian Tofu Fried Rice

A great way to make a meat-free fried rice is to use tofu. First, press the tofu to remove excess water. Then, cube it and sauté it on the blackstone until golden brown. Next, add the tofu to the cooked rice along with other vegetables of your choice. Moreover, include a splash of tamari for an extra savory boost. Accordingly, this version is both healthy and delicious. Thus, this is a great choice for vegetarians.

Maintaining Your Blackstone for Perfect Fried Rice

Proper maintenance of your blackstone griddle is crucial for consistent and excellent results. Here’s how to keep your blackstone in top condition for making delicious fried rice.

Cleaning Your Blackstone After Cooking

After cooking fried rice, clean your blackstone griddle while it’s still warm. First, scrape off any food residue with a metal spatula. Then, pour a little water on the surface and use the spatula to scrape off any remaining particles. Finally, wipe the surface dry with paper towels. Moreover, this helps prevent the buildup of food and keeps your griddle ready for your next cooking adventure. Hence, regular cleaning will ensure that your blackstone stays in good working condition.

Seasoning Your Blackstone Regularly

Regularly seasoning your blackstone griddle is essential for creating a non-stick surface and preventing rust. First, after cleaning the griddle, apply a thin layer of high-heat cooking oil. Then, heat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke. Subsequently, allow the griddle to cool. Moreover, repeat this process a few times to build a protective layer. Therefore, proper seasoning helps to improve the longevity and performance of your blackstone.

Preventing Rust and Damage

To prevent rust and damage, store your blackstone in a dry place when it’s not being used. First, make sure the surface is completely dry before storing it. Additionally, you can apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. Furthermore, consider using a protective cover to keep it safe from the elements. Thus, these simple steps will keep your blackstone in excellent shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you cook the rice before putting it on the blackstone?

Yes, you should always cook the rice before putting it on the blackstone. Day-old, cooked rice works best. This is because fresh rice will be too sticky. Therefore, using day-old rice helps achieve a better texture for fried rice.

What is the secret ingredient to restaurant fried rice?

While there isn’t one secret ingredient, several things give restaurant fried rice its unique flavor. Firstly, using high heat on a large surface helps to give the dish a smoky flavor. Additionally, using day-old rice helps with texture. Furthermore, a good balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and other aromatics is crucial. Therefore, it’s a combination of techniques and flavorful ingredients.

What temperature should a griddle be for fried rice?

The ideal temperature for cooking fried rice on a griddle is medium-high heat. This is typically around 375-400°F (190-205°C). Consequently, this will allow the rice to crisp up without burning. Moreover, it also ensures that the other ingredients cook properly. Therefore, maintaining the right temperature is essential for best results.

What gives Chinese fried rice its flavor?

Chinese fried rice gets its flavor from a mix of ingredients. First, soy sauce provides saltiness and umami. Additionally, sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor. Furthermore, garlic and ginger add a depth of flavor. Finally, other sauces like oyster sauce and hoisin sauce will elevate the taste of the rice. Therefore, these key ingredients contribute to the delicious taste.