How to Use Leftover Rice to Make a Quick and Flavorful Fried Rice

We've all been there—sitting with a bowl of leftover rice that somehow never got finished the night before, and wondering what to do with it. But here's the secret: leftover rice is golden when it comes to making a quick, flavorful dish. So, if you're craving something that’s spicy, savoury, and just the right amount of crispy, then it's time to transform your leftover rice into a mouthwatering Indian-style fried rice!

Fried rice, in its simplest form, is a one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, and the beauty of it is you can throw in whatever you have lying around in your fridge. What makes it even more exciting is the chance to infuse those bold, aromatic Indian spices, and when you throw in a pinch of KBM Masala (our secret touch), you’re bound to turn the most basic ingredients into a burst of flavour.

Let’s dive right into how you can make this easy fried rice recipe with your leftover rice and a handful of everyday ingredients!

1. Prep Your Ingredients

The first step to any great fried rice is prep. Start by gathering your leftover rice (about 2 cups), and make sure it’s not too wet—dry rice works best to give that crispy texture we all love. If your rice is clumpy, just break it apart gently with your hands or a fork.

Now, think of your veggies. You can use anything from peas, carrots, onions, bell peppers, or even some leftover cooked chicken or paneer. The more colourful, the better!

Add some garlic and ginger to give that signature punch. Chop them fine and get them ready to hit the pan.

2. Heat Up That Pan

Take a large pan or wok (we’re channelling our inner chef here) and heat it up with a generous drizzle of oil. Once it's hot and sizzling, throw in your garlic, ginger, and chopped onions. Sauté until they soften and become golden—this is where the magic begins. You’re already starting to smell those flavors fill the air.

3. Toss in the Veggies

Next up, add your chopped veggies into the pan. Start with the firmer ones like carrots and bell peppers, and then add the softer ones like peas. Stir fry them for a couple of minutes until they’re slightly tender but still vibrant.

Now, here’s where you’re going to take your fried rice from ordinary to extraordinary: KBM Masala. Sprinkle in a teaspoon or two of our aromatic masala mix and let it coat the veggies. You’ll notice how quickly the spices start to bloom, creating a tantalising fragrance that will make your mouth water. This magical blend of spices brings that signature Indian touch to the homemade fried rice recipe, making it rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.

4. Add the Leftover Rice

Time to bring the leftover rice into the mix! Gently add your rice to the pan, breaking it up if needed. Now, stir everything together—making sure the rice gets a good mix with all the veggies and spices. This is where the magic of quick fried rice happens. Allow the rice to sizzle a little bit on the bottom of the pan, so it crisps up just enough.

If you like your fried rice a little more flavorful, drizzle a small amount of soy sauce or a dash of vinegar to balance the heat and spice.

5. Finish with a Flavour Boost

Once everything is perfectly mixed and the rice has that golden, crispy edge, turn off the heat. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to bring that refreshing zesty kick. For an added punch, a sprinkle of roasted cashews or peanuts will give your dish that satisfying crunch.

6. Serve and Savour!

That’s it! In just 15-20 minutes, you’ve transformed a humble bowl of leftover rice into a flavorful fried rice recipe that’ll have everyone asking for more. Serve it up hot, and watch it disappear as everyone gathers around for a bite.

Why KBM Masala?

The key to making your fried rice truly pop lies in the spices, and with KBM Masala, you can be sure that you’re using only the best, most authentic flavours. Whether it’s the perfect blend of cumin, coriander, garam masala, or turmeric, our masalas are crafted to bring out the rich, deep flavours of Indian cuisine in every dish. A pinch of KBM Masala makes all the difference, turning your simple fried rice into something extraordinary!

So, next time you find yourself with leftover rice, remember—it’s not just leftovers. It’s an opportunity to create something unforgettable. Give it a little love, a little KBM Masala, and you'll have a meal everyone will ask for again and again!