The Ultimate Bang Bang Fried Rice: A Flavor Explosion!

Ingredients for Bang Bang Fried Rice

• 4 cups cold day-old cooked jasmine rice: The essential foundation for perfect fried rice. Day-old rice ensures crispy, non-clumpy grains.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16/20 count): The crispy star protein of our Bang Bang Fried Rice. Fresh, deveined shrimp absorbs flavors beautifully.
• 2 large eggs: Adds richness and binds the fried rice together with fluffy texture. Lightly scramble them before adding.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Crucial for high-heat cooking, ensuring a golden crisp on the shrimp and rice. Use a neutral oil.
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced: Provides a fresh, mild oniony bite and vibrant color. Reserve some for garnish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent aromatic base that builds deep flavor in the fried rice. Mince finely for best distribution.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the signature Bang Bang sauce. Use a good quality, full-fat mayo.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Delivers the sweet and spicy kick central to the Bang Bang flavor profile. A must-have.
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (to taste): Adds a vibrant heat and depth to the sauce, balancing the sweetness. Adjust to your spice preference.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The umami backbone for both the fried rice and sauce. Opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a subtle tang, brightening the flavors in both the sauce and the fried rice. Don’t skip it.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors, bringing everything into delicious balance. Season in layers, tasting as you go.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery finish to the dish. Freshly ground is always best.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish: Offers a nutty crunch and beautiful visual appeal as a finishing touch. Toast lightly for maximum flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: A final flourish of freshness and herbaceous notes. Adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors.

How to Make Bang Bang Fried Rice

Prep Ingredients:

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp; pat them dry. Whisk eggs in a small bowl. Thinly slice green onions, separating whites from greens, and mince garlic. This prep sets you up for a smooth cooking process for your Bang Bang Fried Rice.

Make Sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. This creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce is the heart of our dish, so taste and adjust sriracha to your preference.

Cook Shrimp & Eggs:

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high. Scramble eggs until just set, then remove. Add another tablespoon oil, cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t overcook them!

Sauté Aromatics:

Add the remaining oil to the wok. Sauté green onion whites and minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. This builds a foundational flavor for the fried rice. Don’t let the garlic burn; a gentle sizzle is perfect.

Fry Rice:

Add cold day-old jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up clumps. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper. This ensures your Bang Bang Fried Rice has that perfect texture.

Combine & Finish:

Return cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs to the wok with the rice. Pour in the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes.

Garnish & Serve:

Transfer your delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice to serving bowls. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy this truly satisfying, flavor-packed meal.

How to Store Bang Bang Fried Rice

To store leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Leaving it out too long compromises quality and safety – I’ve had to toss a batch before. Always check for off smells or slimy texture as signs of spoilage.

For make-ahead, prepare the Bang Bang sauce, cooked shrimp, eggs, and aromatics up to 2 days ahead; refrigerate them separately. Combine all components with freshly fried rice just before serving for best results. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice

Serve this vibrant Bang Bang Fried Rice hot, directly from the wok, for an unforgettable meal. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for a presentation that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it warm. This dish truly pairs wonderfully with a crisp cucumber salad or a refreshing iced tea.

I personally love to serve Bang Bang Fried Rice family-style, right from the wok, with extra sriracha on the side. This allows everyone to customize their heat and truly enjoy the interactive, flavor-packed experience. It’s perfect for a relaxed evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent sticky Bang Bang Fried Rice?

Use cold, day-old jasmine rice and break up clumps before frying. I learned this after many “bang-bang-splat” attempts. Stir-fry in smaller batches for perfectly separate, crispy grains. This truly makes a difference.

→ Can I substitute shrimp in this Bang Bang Fried Rice recipe?

Yes, you can! Cooked chicken, tofu, or even pork belly work well. Just ensure your chosen protein is cooked through and seasoned appropriately before combining. I often use chicken when I’m out of shrimp.

→ Can I make this Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and ensure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free. Most other ingredients are naturally GF. I’ve successfully made it gluten-free for friends; it tastes just as satisfying.

→ How long does leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice last?

Leftover Bang Bang Fried Rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always refrigerate promptly to maintain safety and quality. I’ve had to toss batches left out too long, so be mindful.

→ Can I prepare parts of this Bang Bang Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the Bang Bang sauce, cook the shrimp and eggs, and mince aromatics up to 2 days prior. Refrigerate them separately. Combine with freshly fried rice just before serving for the best, crispiest results.