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    Home » Easy Rice Dishes For Dinner

    Apr 8, 2022 · Modified: Nov 26, 2023 by Emily · 1 Comment

    Singapore Fried Rice

    Jump to recipe

    Looking for a tasty and simple recipe that's ideal for lunch, dinner, or any other occasion?

    Then you must try this recipe for Singapore fried rice!

    This spicy and flavorful rice dish, which combines Indian and Chinese cooking, is a favorite throughout much of Asia.

    This dish can be tailored to your preferences using a range of spices, vegetables, and protein options.

    You'll enjoy how easy and delicious Singapore fried rice is to make, whether you're a novice or an experienced chef.

    Singapore fried rice in a shallow bowl.
    Jump to:
    • Which rice to use for fried rice?
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Cost To Make
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Tips for Success
    • Substitutions / Variations
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Storage
    • FAQ
    • What rice is used for what?
    • Helpful Rice Cooking Tips
    • More Mains Recipes
    • Recipe
    • Comments

    You'll adore this homemade version of Singapore fried rice if you enjoy Chinese takeout.

    You can prepare a meal of restaurant quality in the convenience of your own kitchen with just a few basic ingredients.

    Using day-old cooked rice is essential for making excellent fried rice because it keeps the grains separate and crispy.

    This simple dish can be elevated to a flavorful and filling meal by adding some vegetables and spices. Singapore fried rice will be a hit whether you're cooking for one person or a crowd of friends!

    A delicious rice dish with a light spice kick, Singapore fried rice is great on its own or with a pan-fried egg. The mixture of spices used in the dish gives it its distinctive flavor.

    This includes the use of flavorful seasonings like turmeric, cumin, and coriander as well as sauces with strong flavors like soy sauce and chili sauce.

    The outcome is a dish that is oozing with flavor and guaranteed to satiate your palate.

    Fried rice in a round flat bowl.

    Despite its name, Singaporean fried rice does not originate from Singapore. Instead, it has origins from Indo Chinese cuisine.

    Using ingredients from both Chinese and Indian cuisine, Singapore fried rice is a versatile dish that is suitable for lunch, dinner parties, potlucks, or even meal prep.

    Singaporean fried rice can be served as a main meal by itself, or as a side dish to accompany other meals. because it can be served as a main course, side dish, or snack.

    This dish is prepared by stirring-frying cooked rice with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, eggs, shrimp, and meat. Flavorful herbs and sauces, such as soy sauce and chili sauce, are added to the dish.

    As a good source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, it's not only delicious but also a healthy choice.

    So, the next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal that is both tasty and satisfying, try making Singapore fried rice!

    Which rice to use for fried rice?

    One of the most critical components of making fried rice is the texture of the rice. When making Singapore fried rice, it is best to use a long grain rice. This type of rice is firm when cooked correctly and does not stick together like some other rice types.

    Long grain rice, such as basmati, has less amylopectin starch in it. This means when it is cooked it is less likely to stick together.

    The most prominent starch found in long grain rice is amylose. This type of starch does not gelatinise as much when the rice is cooked.

    Amylopectin starch is found in short grain rice. In high amounts, this starch type makes the rice sticky and gelatinous once cooked.

    Basmati rice in two wooden bowls and on a wooden spoon.
    Basmati rice

    Certain fried rice recipes may call for other kinds of rice, such as short grain (for example sushi rice), or even medium grain rice.

    In those cases, you can use those types of rice.

    This Singapore fried rice recipe uses day-old cooked rice. This is because day-old rice has less moisture in it.

    This makes the final texture of the fried rice nicer. It also makes it easier to separate the rice grains apart when cooking.

    Additionally, by cooking the rice the day before, it allows the rice to dry out. This means the cooked fried rice will be less moist and more crisp.

    If you are short on time but still want to make this Singapore fried rice, don’t worry if you do not have day old rice.

    You can make fresh rice on the day you are making the fried rice. Using freshly cooked rice will still work, it will just be a bit more moist.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • Packed full of flavor: This recipe for Singapore fried rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the best of Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is a tasty and filling meal thanks to its distinctive combination of spices and sauces.
    • Serve this Singapore rice recipe as a main course of as a side dish. Customize it to your liking by adding different ingredients and adjusting the spices to your tastes.
    • Easy to make: This dish is quick and easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
    • Great for meal prep: Singapore fried rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge  for later. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for packing in a lunch box.
    • Perfect for dinner parties: Serving Singapore fried rice at dinner parties or potlucks can be impressive. It is a memorable dish that is sure to impress your guests thanks to its distinctive flavor and presentation.

    Cost To Make

    Estimated cost = $6.65, or $1.66 a serve

    Ingredients

    Please note that below is a guide for some of the ingredients we used in the recipe. The printable recipe further down the page has the complete list of ingredients, including quantities and step-by-step instructions.

    Singapore fried rice ingredients.
    Spices used for Singapore fried rice.
    • Cooked, day old basmati (long-grain) rice: Day old rice gives a nicer texture and outcome when making fried rice. Make sure you rinse your rice before cooking. This will remove any extra starch from it. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the water you rinsed the rice in completely.
    • Vegetable oil
    • Chicken breast: cut into small pieces, lightly salted
    • Prawns: (peeled and cleaned), cut into small pieces, lightly salted. Lightly dust the prawns in rice flour. This will help make them crispy when they are fried.
    • Eggs: lightly beaten
    • Minced Garlic
    • Brown onion: finely chopped
    • Carrot, diced (⅓ cup, 50g), blanched
    • Green peas: If you are using frozen green peas, be sure to bring them to room temperature before adding them to your rice. To do this, submerge them in water.
    • Capsicum: finely diced
    • Soy sauce
    • Curry powder
    • Black pepper powder
    • Turmeric powder
    • Coriander (cilantro) powder (ground coriander / cilantro)
    • Dried chili flakes
    • Sugar
    • Chicken powder stock
    • Sesame oil
    • Spring onions / green onions: finely chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    Read on below for in depth details on how to make Singapore fried rice.

    Step 1 - In a large wok or saucepan on medium to high heat place 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat.

    Stir fry the chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes, and then add the prawns.

    Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the prawns have changed color and the chicken is cooked.

    Step 2 - Move the prawns and chicken to the side of the pan and add the eggs. Make the eggs into a thin omelette.

    When the eggs are almost cooked, gently separate it up into smaller pieces.

    Remove prawns, chicken and eggs from pan and set aside for later.

    Step 3 - Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the heated pan and add garlic and onion. Saute the garlic and onion until the onion turns light brown. Then add the carrot, green peas, and capsicum.  Cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

    Step 4 - Add the soy sauce, curry powder, black pepper powder, turmeric, coriander (cilantro) powder, dried chili flakes, sugar, chicken powder stock, and sesame oil. Mix well and cook for a few seconds.

    Step 5 - Add the cooked rice to the pan, as well as the prawns, chicken, and spring onions.

    Mix the ingredients together until well combined. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.

    Step 6 - Turn off heat. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

    Tips for Success

    • Use day old, cooked rice: To make the perfect fried rice, it is best to use day old cooked rice. Leaving the cooked rice in the fridge overnight helps to make it firm up and makes it easier to separate the rice grains apart when cooking.
    • Separate the rice grains: Separate any clumps of rice before adding it to the wok or pan. When frying, this will make it simpler to incorporate the other ingredients, resulting in a more even flavor distribution.
    • Fry longer if rice is too wet: The texture of your rice may become mushy and unpleasant if it is overly wet. Fry the rice for a little bit longer to help evaporate any extra moisture to prevent this.
    • Use high heat: Use high heat to cook the fried rice so that the ingredients will cook quickly and uniformly. Additionally, this will help keep the rice from getting too wet or sticky.
    • Use a wok: If possible, use a wok to cook the fried rice. This is because a wok disperses heat more evenly among the rice grains when cooking, resulting in a better texture and taste.
    • Don't overload the wok: Avoid packing the wok with too many ingredients at once to make sure the fried rice cooks evenly. If necessary, cook the rice in smaller batches.
    • Prepare all ingredients beforehand: To make the cooking process smoother, it is best to prepare all the ingredients beforehand. This includes chopping vegetables, beating eggs, and measuring out sauces and spices.
    Fried rice in a round flat bowl.

    Substitutions / Variations

    • Vegetarian version: To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli.
    • Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
    • Protein: Swap the chicken for beef, pork, or tofu for a different source of protein. You could add finely chopped meats such as char siu, beef, pork or chicken.
    • Herbs: Use different herbs such as cilantro or basil to give the dish a different flavor.
    • Add nuts or seeds: For some added crunch and nutrition, consider adding nuts or seeds such as cashews, peanuts, or sesame seeds.

    Serving Suggestions

    Singapore fried rice is great on its own or when served as a side dish. Here are some ways we love to enjoy this fried rice:

    • Stir-fried vegetables: A classic Chinese stir-fry of mixed vegetables, such as broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and bell peppers, can provide a fresh and healthy complement to the rich and savory flavors of the fried rice.
    • Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables, such as bok choy, cabbage, or spinach, can be a great side dish that adds some crunch and nutrition to the meal.
    • With condiments: To add more flavor and spice to the fried rice, think about serving it with sauces like soy sauce, hot sauce, or chili oil.
    • Spring rolls: Fried or fresh spring rolls, filled with vegetables or meat, can be a great appetizer or side dish that complements the flavors of the fried rice.
    • Topped with a fried egg: For a delicious and protein-packed variation, top the fried rice with a fried egg. The runny yolk will add a creamy and savory element to the dish.
    • Chinese-style soup: An egg drop soup or hot and sour soup can be a delicious way to start the meal or be served as a side dish. The meal gains warmth and richness from it.
    • Fried chicken: Serve Singapore fried rice with some crispy fried chicken or chicken wings if you want a non-vegetarian option. It will give the meal some crunch and variety.
    • Dumplings: Another classic Chinese side dish, dumplings can be boiled, steamed or pan-fried and filled with meat, vegetables, or a combination of both. They make a delicious addition to any meal.

    Storage

    If you have any leftover Singapore fried rice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.

    To reheat the fried rice, you can heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop in a wok or pan.

    FAQ

    Why can’t you use fresh rice for fried rice?

    Using freshly cooked rice for fried rice can result in a sticky texture due to the higher moisture content.
    If you use day old cooked rice it tends to have less moisture in it, resulting in a crisper rice.

    It is recommended to use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight instead of freshly cooked rice to achieve the desired texture and flavor of this delicious dish.

    What is the difference between Singapore fried rice and special fried rice?

    The two rice dishes are similar however, unlike special fried rice, Singapore fried rice is seasoned with curry powder.

    Special fried rice uses seasonings such as oyster sauce and soy sauce.

    Is Singapore Fried Rice Vegetarian?

    No, this version of Singapore fried rice is not vegetarian. If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken breast and prawns for a vegetarian friendly alternative such as a hard tofu. The rice will taste just as nice even if you just omit the meats.

    Is Singapore fried rice spicy?

    Yes, Singapore fried rice can be spicy. If you are not too keen on having a spicy rice dish, simply reduce or remove the chili completely from the recipe.

    What rice is used for what?

    Ever wondered which might be the best rice to use for a dish you’re about to make.

    Or maybe you’re just curious and want to know more about rice in general.

    Why not check out our pages on what is basmati rice and what is jasmine rice.

    Helpful Rice Cooking Tips

    Want to know how to cook rice or just need a little refresher?

    Check out how to easily cook basmati rice, sushi rice, and jasmine rice on the stovetop.

    Or, why not check out our recipes on how to make basmati rice, jasmine rice, and sushi rice in the Instant Pot.

    Fried rice on a round plate.

    Made this recipe? Let us know how it went in the comments below! We'd love to hear how it turned out.

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    Recipe

    Rice with spices and chicken on a plate.

    Singapore Fried Rice

    Emily
    Spicy and fresh Singapore fried rice. Perfect for dinner, lunch or meal prep. So simple to make and packed full of flavour. Make it today!
    5 from 1 vote
    PRINT RECIPE PIN RECIPE
    Prep Time 20 minutes mins
    Cook Time 25 minutes mins
    Total Time 45 minutes mins
    ESTIMATED COST : $6.65, or $1.66 a serve
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Singapore
    Servings 4 serves
    Calories 459 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 cups (360 grams, 12.69 ounces) cooked basmati rice day old preferred
    • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 150 grams (5.29 ounces) chicken breast cut into small pieces, lightly salted
    • 100 grams (3.53 ounces) prawns (peeled and cleaned), cut into small pieces, lightly salted and dusted in rice flour
    • 2 eggs lightly beaten
    • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
    • 1 brown onion finely chopped
    • 1 (⅓ cup, 50 grams, 1.76 ounces) carrot diced and blanched
    • 50 grams (1.76 ounces) green peas
    • ⅓ cup (1.59 ounces) capsicum finely diced
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 ½ teaspoons curry powder
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper powder
    • ½ teaspoon tumeric powder
    • ½ teaspoon coriander (cilantro) powder (ground coriander / cilantro)
    • ½ teaspoon dried chilli flakes
    • 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
    • ½ teaspoon chicken powder stock
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • ½ cup spring (green) onions finely chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • In a large wok or saucepan on medium to high heat place 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat. Stir fry the chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes, and then add the prawns.
      Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the prawns have changed color and the chicken is cooked.
    • Move the prawns and chicken to the side of the pan and add the eggs. Make the eggs into a thin omelette.
      When the eggs are almost cooked, gently break it up into smaller pieces. Remove prawns, chicken and eggs from pan and set aside for later.
    • Place the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the heated pan and add garlic and onion. Sauté the garlic and onion until the onion turns light brown.
      Then add the carrot, green peas, and capsicum. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
    • Add the soy sauce, curry powder, black pepper powder, turmeric, coriander (cilantro) powder, dried chili flakes, sugar, chicken powder stock, and sesame oil. Mix well and cook for a few seconds.
    • Add the cooked rice to the pan, as well as the prawns, chicken, and spring onions. Mix the ingredients together until well combined. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.
    • Turn off heat. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1 serveCalories: 459kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 25gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 919mgPotassium: 479mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8g
    Nutrition Disclosure
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it went!

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Silvie says

      April 14, 2022 at 7:03 pm

      5 stars
      This is super delish, I loved making it!

      Reply

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    Author image.

    Hi, I'm Emily! There's much more to rice than just cooking it on the stove. It's so versatile and you can create so many beautiful dishes with it. From puddings and desserts to main meals and even finger foods. There is something for everyone!

    More about me →

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