Filipino Coconut Garlic Fried Rice, known as “Sinangag,” is a staple dish in Filipino cuisine. Traditionally made from leftover rice, this simple yet flavorful dish is seasoned with garlic and sometimes onions, offering a fragrant and satisfying meal. Sinangag is often served with fried eggs or cured meats, making it a popular breakfast choice across the Philippines. The beauty of Sinangag lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing home cooks to adapt the recipe to their tastes and available ingredients. But where did Sinangag originate, and how can you make it at home with a delicious twist using coconut milk? Let’s dive into this delightful dish’s origins, ingredients, and preparation.
Ingredients
For this Filipino Coconut Garlic Fried Rice Sinangag recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old and refrigerated)
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 eggs (optional)
- Sliced green onions or scallions for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Choose the Right Rice: The best rice for Sinangag is leftover rice because it has a firmer texture and is less likely to clump together when fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook fresh rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
- Heat the Coconut Oil: In a large frying pan or wok, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Coconut oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the garlic.
- Sauté the Garlic and Onions: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic. If using, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
- Add the Rice: Increase the heat to high and add the rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir the rice continuously to ensure it absorbs the flavors of the garlic and onions.
- Incorporate the Coconut Milk: Pour the coconut milk over the rice, stirring to combine. The coconut milk will infuse the rice with a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
- Season the Rice: Add salt, pepper, and soy sauce to taste. Continue to stir-fry the rice for another 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs (Optional)
- Fry the Eggs: In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side-up or over-easy. You can also scramble the eggs and mix them directly into the rice if preferred.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions or scallions. Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a fresh citrus note.
- Enjoy with Eggs: Top the rice with the fried eggs and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Enhance your Sinangag by adding cooked meats such as crispy bacon, diced ham, or leftover grilled chicken. This variation makes the dish more filling and flavorful.
- Incorporate Vegetables: For added nutrition, toss in vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic and onions before adding the rice.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicy flavors, add a pinch of chili flakes or diced fresh chilies for a kick.
- Coconut Rice in Rice Cooker: If you prefer using a rice cooker, combine the coconut oil, garlic, rice, coconut milk, and seasonings in the cooker and use the “Cook” setting. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
Filipino Coconut Garlic Fried Rice Sinangag is a beloved dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Sinangag offers endless possibilities for customization, allowing you to create a dish that suits your tastes and dietary needs. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious recipe as much as we do! Please share your experience with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tasty recipes and cooking tips from easycrispyrecipes.com.