Blackstone Fried Rice: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your outdoor cooking game! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic dish, because we’re taking it to the next level with the incredible power of the Blackstone griddle. Imagine perfectly seared meats, crisp-tender vegetables, and fluffy rice all infused with a smoky, irresistible flavor that only a Blackstone can deliver.
Fried rice, in its essence, is a testament to resourcefulness and culinary ingenuity. Originating in ancient China as a way to repurpose leftover rice, it has evolved into a beloved staple across countless cultures, each adding their unique twist and flair. From the humble street food stalls of Southeast Asia to the bustling kitchens of American restaurants, fried rice has captured hearts (and stomachs!) worldwide.
What makes fried rice so universally appealing? It’s the symphony of textures – the slight chew of the rice, the satisfying crunch of the vegetables, and the tender succulence of the protein. It’s the explosion of flavors – the savory umami, the subtle sweetness, and the hint of spice. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s the sheer convenience and versatility. You can customize Blackstone Fried Rice with whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it the perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next backyard barbecue. So, grab your spatula, fire up your Blackstone, and let’s create some magic!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old and chilled (long-grain or medium-grain work best)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans), fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup diced cooked protein (chicken, pork, shrimp, tofu – your choice!)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium is recommended)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce, for serving (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients:
- Rice Preparation: This is crucial! Day-old, chilled rice is your best friend for fried rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in a sticky, clumpy mess on the Blackstone. Spread the cooked rice out on a baking sheet or large plate to cool completely and dry out a bit. This helps separate the grains and prevents sticking. If you’re using rice straight from the fridge, break it up with your fingers before adding it to the griddle.
- Vegetable Prep: If you’re using frozen vegetables, thaw them slightly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Excess moisture is the enemy of perfectly fried rice. Fresh vegetables should be washed and chopped into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking on the griddle.
- Protein Prep: Make sure your protein is already cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces. Whether it’s leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu, having it ready to go will streamline the cooking process. If using shrimp, ensure it is deveined and cooked through.
- Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, ground ginger, white pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the fried rice. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might want to add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter fried rice.
- Egg Prep: Lightly beat the eggs in a small bowl with a fork. A little bit of whisking goes a long way. You don’t want them to be frothy, just well combined.
Cooking on the Blackstone:
- Preheat the Blackstone: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to cook the rice quickly and create that desirable slightly crispy texture, but not so hot that it burns everything. A good test is to flick a few drops of water onto the griddle; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, you’re good to go.
- Oil Up: Pour the sesame oil and vegetable oil onto the preheated griddle. Spread the oil evenly over the cooking surface using a spatula. This prevents sticking and helps the rice and other ingredients cook properly.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the griddle and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the griddle and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender-crisp. If using frozen vegetables, make sure they are heated through.
- Add the Protein: Add the diced cooked protein to the griddle and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Ensure the protein is heated through.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the vegetables and protein to one side of the griddle. Pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side and scramble them until they are cooked through but still slightly moist. Break the scrambled eggs into smaller pieces with your spatula.
- Combine Everything: Mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables and protein on the griddle.
- Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the griddle and spread it out evenly. Use your spatula to break up any clumps of rice.
- Pour in the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the rice, vegetables, and protein. Use your spatula to toss and combine everything thoroughly, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Fry the Rice: Continue to cook the fried rice for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is heated through and slightly crispy. This is where the magic happens! The rice will start to brown and develop a delicious, slightly smoky flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, rice vinegar for tanginess, or chili garlic sauce for heat.
Serving and Garnishing:
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Blackstone fried rice immediately while it’s hot and fresh.
- Garnish: Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Optional Toppings: Offer sriracha or chili garlic sauce on the side for those who like a little extra heat. You can also add a fried egg on top for a more substantial meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t overcrowd the griddle: If you’re making a large batch of fried rice, it’s best to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the griddle. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in soggy fried rice.
- Use high heat: High heat is essential for creating that desirable crispy texture. However, be careful not to burn the ingredients.
- Stir frequently: Stirring frequently prevents the rice from sticking to the griddle and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Fried rice is a very versatile dish, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to create your own unique version.
- Clean your Blackstone immediately: Once you’re done cooking, clean your Blackstone griddle immediately to prevent food from sticking and making it difficult to clean later.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. You can also use tofu as a protein source.
- Shrimp Fried Rice: Use cooked shrimp as the protein source.
- Chicken Fried Rice: Use cooked chicken as the protein source.
- Pork Fried Rice: Use cooked pork as the protein source.
- Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Kimchi Fried Rice: Add kimchi to the fried rice for a tangy and spicy flavor.
Enjoy!
Conclusion:
This Blackstone Fried Rice recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen right on your griddle! The combination of perfectly cooked rice, savory vegetables, and your choice of protein, all kissed by the high heat of the Blackstone, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly delicious. The slight char and smoky notes you get from the griddle are simply unmatched by any stovetop method. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add some sliced bell peppers for sweetness, mushrooms for earthiness, or even some water chestnuts for a delightful crunch. The protein options are endless too! While I’ve suggested chicken and shrimp, you could easily substitute with pork, beef, tofu, or even a combination of your favorites. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders, making this a fantastic way to use up those delicious leftovers.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
For a complete meal, I love serving this Blackstone Fried Rice with a side of crispy spring rolls or a light and refreshing cucumber salad. A drizzle of sriracha mayo adds a creamy kick, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds provides a nutty finish.
Here are a few variations to get your creative juices flowing:
* Spicy Sriracha Fried Rice: Add a generous amount of sriracha to the sauce for an extra fiery kick.
* Pineapple Fried Rice: Incorporate chunks of fresh pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
* Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* Kimchi Fried Rice: Stir in some kimchi for a fermented, spicy, and tangy flavor.
* Egg Fried Rice: Scramble the eggs directly on the Blackstone and mix them into the rice for added richness.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your own taste preferences. This is your chance to create your signature Blackstone Fried Rice masterpiece!
I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family with your griddle skills.
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your Blackstone, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the best fried rice you’ve ever had. I can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures!
Share Your Experience!
Once you’ve tried this Blackstone Fried Rice recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite ingredients? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious griddle creations! Happy cooking! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do.
Blackstone Fried Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Results
Quick and easy Blackstone fried rice, packed with flavor and customizable with your favorite protein and vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Instructions
Recipe Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the griddle; cook in batches if needed.
- Use high heat for crispy texture, but be careful not to burn.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking.
- Clean your Blackstone immediately after cooking.