Asian-Inspired Bang Bang Fried Rice Recipe

Bang Bang Fried Rice – Bold, Creamy, Spicy 20-Minute Fusion Dinner

Introduction
Bang Bang Fried Rice is a wildly flavorful twist on classic fried rice, loaded with bold heat, creamy sauce, and savory-crispy bites. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang shrimp dish, this recipe brings together fluffy rice, juicy protein, tender veggies, and a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that ties everything together in a craveable fusion-style stir fry.

It’s fast, filling, and endlessly customizable—perfect for weeknights when you want something exciting and satisfying with minimal effort. Whether you use shrimp, chicken, tofu, or just veggies, the sauce is the star: creamy, tangy, spicy, and a little sweet.

This is comfort food with a kick, and it might just become your new favorite way to eat fried rice.

Ingredients Overview

• Cooked Rice: Day-old, cold jasmine or long-grain rice is ideal for texture. It fries up dry and crispy without clumping.
• Protein: Shrimp, diced chicken, or crispy tofu all work. Choose based on preference—shrimp is classic for Bang Bang.
• Vegetables: Diced bell pepper, green onions, frozen peas, carrots, or corn add color, texture, and balance.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and warmth to the stir fry base.
• Eggs: Lightly scrambled into the rice for added richness and protein.
• Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a splash of rice vinegar. It’s thick, glossy, and coats the rice beautifully.
• Soy Sauce: Adds savory umami depth and saltiness.
• Oil: Use a high-heat neutral oil like canola or avocado for stir-frying. Sesame oil can be added at the end for aroma.

Substitutions: Greek yogurt or vegan mayo can replace traditional mayo. Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2½ tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust for spice)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
  Set aside.

2. Prep the Protein
   If using shrimp or chicken, season with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet with 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through (shrimp: 2–3 minutes per side, chicken: 5–6 minutes total). Set aside.
3. Cook the Veggies
   In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté ½ cup diced bell pepper, ¼ cup chopped green onions, and ½ cup frozen peas or corn for 2–3 minutes.
4. Scramble the Eggs
   Push veggies to the side and pour in 2 beaten eggs. Scramble gently until set, then mix into the veggies.
5. Add the Rice
   Add 3 cups cold, cooked rice. Break up clumps and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, letting the rice lightly crisp in spots. Add 1–2 tsp soy sauce and stir to coat.
6. Return Protein and Add Sauce
   Add cooked shrimp/chicken/tofu back to the pan. Pour in the Bang Bang sauce and stir to combine, cooking 1–2 more minutes until everything is hot and coated.
7. Finish and Serve
   Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil and garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of Sriracha. Serve hot.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicier: Add more Sriracha or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Vegan Version: Use tofu or tempeh, vegan mayo, and skip the eggs.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice—reduce cook time slightly.
• Protein Swap: Use ground chicken, beef, or leftover rotisserie chicken for a faster meal.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, edamame, mushrooms, or shredded cabbage for added nutrients.
• Make It Saucier: Double the Bang Bang sauce if you love a rich, creamy finish.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This bold, saucy fried rice is perfect for:

• Quick Weeknight Dinners: Fast, one-pan, and full of flavor
• Leftover Rice Recipes: A creative way to use up what’s in the fridge
• Fusion Meal Nights: Serve with Asian slaw or spicy cucumber salad
• Lunch Meal Prep: Stores well and reheats perfectly

Pair with:

• A crunchy slaw with vinegar dressing
• Steamed edamame with sea salt
• Thai iced tea or sparkling water with lime

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish offers a good mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

• Mayo provides creaminess and fat—can be swapped for Greek yogurt or light mayo to reduce calories
• Adding shrimp or tofu boosts lean protein
• Veggies bring vitamins A and C, fiber, and texture

To make it lighter:

• Use less sauce or a yogurt-based version
• Choose brown rice or cauliflower rice
• Add more veggies to increase volume without extra calories

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Cold, day-old rice is best for fried rice. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and sticky. If needed, spread hot rice on a tray and chill it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.

Can I prep this dish ahead?
Yes. Store sauce and cooked ingredients separately, then stir-fry everything just before eating. Or reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water.

How do I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the Sriracha in the sauce. Sweet chili sauce adds mild heat without overpowering.

Can I use another protein?
Absolutely. Ground meat, tofu, tempeh, or even a fried egg on top all work beautifully with this flavor profile.

Is Bang Bang Fried Rice gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and double-check that your chili sauce and mayo are gluten-free.

How long does it keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in portions and reheat thoroughly in a pan or microwave.

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