Have you ever wondered why restaurant fried rice tastes so much better than homemade versions? The secret might just be in the cooking surface! A Blackstone griddle provides that perfect high-heat cooking platform that gives fried rice its distinctive wok hei flavor – that smoky, charred essence that makes Asian stir-fries irresistible.
This Blackstone Fried Rice Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish right in your backyard. With its flat, spacious cooking surface and consistent heat distribution, the Blackstone griddle is ideal for creating that authentic fried rice experience without needing professional equipment.
Whether you’re a griddle novice or seasoned outdoor cook, this recipe will help you create delicious fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout spot. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this crowd-pleasing dish!
Ground turkey and rice make the perfect pair, and these 7 recipes prove just how delicious and versatile they can be.
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for a successful Blackstone Fried Rice Recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it based on preferences and what’s available in your kitchen.
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold jasmine or long-grain rice)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup diced protein (chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitution options: Brown rice works great as a healthier alternative. No oyster sauce? Use additional soy sauce with a pinch of sugar. Vegetarians can omit the protein or double up on tofu and vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus time to cook and cool rice if not using leftover rice)
- Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
- Total time: 25-30 minutes
This blackstone griddle fried rice recipe comes together significantly faster than traditional stovetop methods, which often take 35-40 minutes. The large cooking surface of the Blackstone allows for faster cooking while maintaining better heat distribution, resulting in perfectly textured rice with those desirable crispy bits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these five simple steps to create perfect fried rice on your Blackstone griddle. Each step builds flavor, ensuring you achieve that restaurant-quality taste and texture.
Step 1: Prepare Your Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F). Allow it to heat thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes. A properly heated surface prevents sticking and promotes that coveted caramelization. Once hot, apply a thin layer of oil across the cooking surface.
Pro tip: Test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface – if they dance and quickly evaporate, your griddle is ready.
Step 2: Cook the Protein and Vegetables
Add your chosen protein to one side of the griddle and cook until nearly done. Push to one side and add diced onions to the other side, cooking until translucent (about 2 minutes). Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Combine the protein and vegetables, then push everything to one side of the griddle.
Pro tip: Cut protein into uniform, small pieces (about 1/2 inch) for quick, even cooking. Season the protein with a dash of soy sauce while cooking for extra flavor.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Pour the beaten eggs onto the empty side of the griddle. Let them sit slightly, then gently scramble until just cooked but still soft. Mix the eggs with the protein and vegetable mixture, then push everything to one side again, creating space for the rice.
Pro tip: Don’t overcook the eggs – they should remain slightly moist, as they’ll continue to cook when mixed with the other hot ingredients.
Step 4: Add Rice and Seasonings
Spread the cold rice onto the empty side of the griddle. Break up any clumps with your spatula. Let the rice cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to develop a slight crust. Drizzle soy sauce and oyster sauce over the rice, then mix everything – rice, eggs, protein, and vegetables.
Pro tip: Using day-old, refrigerated rice prevents mushiness and helps achieve that perfect grain separation. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Add frozen peas and carrots, stirring until heated through (about 2 minutes). Sprinkle with sliced green onions and drizzle with sesame oil. Give everything a final toss, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. The rice should have a pleasant golden-brown color with visible seasonings distributed throughout.
Pro tip: For an authentic touch, create a well in the center of your rice mixture during the final minute of cooking, add a small amount of oil, and let it heat until shimmering before mixing everything one last time.
Nutritional Information
This Blackstone Fried Rice Recipe provides a balanced meal with proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Each serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains:
Calories: 350-400 kcal (varies based on protein choice)
Protein: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 12-15g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 800mg (can be reduced with low-sodium soy sauce)
Sugar: 2g
This recipe provides approximately 20% of your daily protein needs and 15% of your daily carbohydrate requirements. The vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C from the carrots and peas.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this classic Blackstone Fried Rice Recipe into a nutritional powerhouse with these simple modifications:
Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice to increase fiber content and reduce the glycemic index. Brown rice adds 80% more fiber than white rice while maintaining that satisfying chewy texture.
Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which can cut sodium content by up to 40% without sacrificing flavor. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the taste profile.
Increase the vegetable-to-rice ratio by adding colorful bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or zucchini. This boosts vitamins and minerals while reducing calories per serving.
Use heart-healthy oils like avocado oil instead of vegetable oil. For those watching cholesterol, use two egg whites instead of whole eggs, saving approximately 55mg of cholesterol per serving.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your fried rice experience with these complementary serving ideas:
Serve in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a stunning tropical presentation that adds a sweet contrast to the savory rice. The pineapple juices naturally infuse into the rice, creating an unexpected flavor dimension.
Pair with simple side dishes like cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds, or steamed edamame tossed with sea salt for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Offer a selection of condiments on the side, such as sriracha, chili oil, or additional soy sauce, allowing guests to customize their heat level and flavor profile.
For a fun interactive meal, serve the fried rice as part of a build-your-own bowl bar with additional toppings like crispy wonton strips, pickled vegetables, or a fried egg on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using freshly cooked, hot rice – This leads to soggy, clumpy fried rice. Always use day-old refrigerated rice or cool freshly cooked rice completely before using.
- Overcrowding the griddle – This reduces temperature and causes steaming rather than frying. Work in batches if necessary to maintain proper heat levels.
- Adding all seasonings at once – Layer your seasonings throughout the cooking process for deeper flavor development. About 70% of professional chefs recommend this technique over adding all seasonings at the end.
- Stirring constantly – Allow the rice to sit undisturbed occasionally to develop those desirable crispy bits. Constant stirring prevents caramelization.
- Using too much oil – This makes the rice greasy. Start with just enough to coat the surface and add small amounts as needed.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Properly storing your Blackstone fried rice ensures delicious leftovers and minimizes food waste:
Cool completely before refrigerating. Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. The flavor often improves after a day as the seasonings continue to meld.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Add a tablespoon of water when reheating to restore moisture.
When reheating, the Blackstone griddle works perfectly! Set to medium heat and stir occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel covering the rice to prevent drying out.
For meal prep, prepare all ingredients in advance and store them separately. The chopped vegetables will stay fresh for 3-4 days, and pre-cooked protein for 2-3 days, allowing for quick assembly when ready to cook.
Conclusion
Mastering this Blackstone fried rice recipe opens up a world of outdoor cooking possibilities. The combination of high heat, ample cooking space, and the right techniques creates fried rice with authentic restaurant flavor that’s impossible to achieve on a standard stovetop.
Remember that perfect fried rice comes down to three key elements: using cold rice, maintaining high heat, and not overcrowding your cooking surface. With these principles in mind, you’ll create exceptional fried rice every time.
Have you tried this recipe on your Blackstone griddle? We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you’ve discovered! Share your results in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other Blackstone griddle recipes for more outdoor cooking inspiration.