How to Choose the Best Rice for Fried Rice

Lung Wah Chong
1 day ago
2 min read

Fried rice is one of the world's most popular Asian dishes, but choosing the right rice can make all the difference. The type of rice you use affects the texture, flavour, and overall result. Here's a simple guide to help you choose the best rice for perfect fried rice every time.

1. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is one of the most popular choices for fried rice, especially in Thai cuisine. It has a light, fragrant aroma and stays fluffy when cooked correctly.

For the best results, cook the rice in advance and chill it overnight. This helps the grains firm up, preventing them from becoming sticky when stir-fried.

2. Long Grain Rice

Long grain rice is another excellent option because the grains stay separate during cooking. It's a versatile choice that works well in Chinese, Malaysian, and Indonesian fried rice dishes.

Its light texture makes it easy to stir-fry without clumping together.

3. Basmati Rice

Although traditionally used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, basmati rice can also be used for fried rice. Its long grains remain separate after cooking and have a delicate flavour that pairs well with vegetables, chicken, and seafood.

Why Day-Old Rice Works Best

Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture, which can lead to soggy fried rice.

Using chilled, day-old rice allows excess moisture to evaporate, helping the grains stay firm and absorb sauces without becoming mushy.

If you're short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate it for at least an hour before cooking.

Tips for Better Fried Rice

To achieve restaurant-quality fried rice:

Use cold, cooked rice.
Cook over high heat.
Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Add sauces gradually to prevent sogginess.
Stir continuously for even cooking.

These simple techniques help create fried rice with separated grains and authentic flavour.

Find Quality Rice at Lung Wah Chong

At Lung Wah Chong, we stock a wide range of premium Asian rice, including jasmine, long grain, and other popular varieties suitable for restaurants, retailers, and home cooks.

Whether you're preparing classic egg fried rice or a spicy Thai-inspired dish, choosing the right rice is the first step to achieving great results.