Bang Bang Fried Rice is one of those dishes that instantly takes me back to the cozy kitchen of my beloved Mama Lou. I remember her humming softly as she tossed together simple ingredients, creating magic with every stir of the wok. This recipe isn’t just about the flavors—it’s about family, tradition, and those moments shared with my sister Ouma, when we’d sneak bites before the meal was even ready. Every time I make this dish, it feels like I’m wrapping myself in a warm, familiar hug from home.
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Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Fried Rice
There’s something so comforting about fried rice, but Bang Bang Fried Rice brings an extra kick that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a beautiful balance of spicy, savory, and just a touch of sweetness, all wrapped up in fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. Growing up, Mama Lou always said food should tell a story, and this dish tells mine—a story of late afternoons spent with Ouma, laughter echoing through the house, and the irresistible aroma that filled every corner.
What makes this fried rice truly special is the bang bang sauce—a creamy, spicy blend that wakes up the dish without overwhelming it. It’s a flavor that nods to my Caribbean roots but feels right at home in any kitchen. If you like layers of flavor and a little heat that doesn’t overpower, this recipe will become a staple in your home, just as it is in mine.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Bang Bang Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old for best texture
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn work beautifully)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (I like to use a light mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
- 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce, adjust to your heat preference
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu, or use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Mama Lou always told me that cooking is about what you love and what you have on hand—so feel free to make this recipe your own.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 22g (from eggs and chicken)
- Fat: 18g (mostly from the mayonnaise and oil)
- Carbohydrates: 45g (from rice and veggies)
- Fiber: 4g (thanks to the mixed vegetables)
- Sugar: 6g (from honey and vegetables)
- Sodium: 650mg (mostly from soy sauce and mayo)
This fried rice strikes a nice balance between indulgence and nourishment, reminding me of the meals Mama Lou would prepare—wholesome, satisfying, and made with love.
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Bang Bang Fried Rice The Ultimate Flavor Explosion You Need to Try
Learn how to make delicious Bang Bang Fried Rice. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old for best texture
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn work beautifully)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (I like to use a light mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
- 1–2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce, adjust to your heat preference
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu, or use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Mama Lou always told me that cooking is about what you love and what you have on hand—so feel free to make this recipe your own.
Instructions
- Start by preparing your Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness as you prefer. Set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, careful not to burn it. The aroma will instantly remind you of those afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where garlic was the secret to everything.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright and colorful. I love how the colors remind me of the vibrant markets Ouma and I would explore together.
- Push the veggies to one side of the pan, pour in the beaten eggs on the other side, and scramble gently until just set. Then mix everything together.
- Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly, cooking for about 5 minutes until the rice is hot and slightly toasted at the edges.
- Fold in the cooked chicken and green onions, allowing them to warm through for another 2 minutes. This is the moment when the dish really comes alive, and I always feel a little burst of joy stirring the pot.
- Remove from heat and drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the rice. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. The creamy, spicy sauce will coat each grain like a flavorful hug.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add an extra layer of freshness, sprinkle with chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Bang Bang Fried Rice
- Start by preparing your Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness as you prefer. Set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, careful not to burn it. The aroma will instantly remind you of those afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where garlic was the secret to everything.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright and colorful. I love how the colors remind me of the vibrant markets Ouma and I would explore together.
- Push the veggies to one side of the pan, pour in the beaten eggs on the other side, and scramble gently until just set. Then mix everything together.
- Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly, cooking for about 5 minutes until the rice is hot and slightly toasted at the edges.
- Fold in the cooked chicken and green onions, allowing them to warm through for another 2 minutes. This is the moment when the dish really comes alive, and I always feel a little burst of joy stirring the pot.
- Remove from heat and drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the rice. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. The creamy, spicy sauce will coat each grain like a flavorful hug.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add an extra layer of freshness, sprinkle with chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Bang Bang Fried Rice
One of Mama Lou’s golden rules was to use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will turn mushy when fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool and dry for at least 30 minutes.
When I cook this with Ouma, she always insists on using a high smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut oil—it helps achieve that perfect slightly crispy texture without burning. Don’t rush the frying process; letting the rice sit undisturbed for a minute or two encourages those delicious toasted bits to form. Learn more: Taco Ranch Bites: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
The Bang Bang sauce can be adjusted to your spice level. I remember once making it too spicy for my little niece, so now I always keep milder ingredients on hand, letting each person add more Sriracha to their own plate.
And finally, don’t be afraid to personalize. Mama Lou’s kitchen was full of improvisation—sometimes adding pineapple for sweetness or swapping in leftover pork. This dish shines because of its flexibility.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Bang Bang Fried Rice is a wonderful main on its own, but it also plays beautifully alongside lighter dishes. A crisp cucumber salad or a simple side of steamed bok choy adds a refreshing crunch. I often serve it with Mama Lou’s tangy pickled vegetables, which cut through the richness of the sauce.
If you’re aiming for a heartier meal, pair it with grilled shrimp skewers or a fried egg on top—Ouma’s favorite way to eat it. The runny yolk mingling with the spicy sauce is pure comfort.
For drinks, a cold jasmine tea or a crisp, slightly sweet white wine complements the bold flavors perfectly. These pairings remind me of family dinners where the food and drinks flowed freely alongside stories and laughter.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of Bang Bang Fried Rice keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent the rice from drying out. When reheating, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it to create steam. Heat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
Because the sauce is creamy, I avoid reheating it too long in the microwave to prevent separation. For the freshest taste, you can drizzle a bit of extra Bang Bang sauce over leftovers when serving.
When I pack this dish for Ouma’s lunch, she always tells me how it tastes just like home—proof that a good recipe, like a good memory, can travel well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Bang Bang Fried Rice?
The main ingredients for Bang Bang Fried Rice include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Bang Bang Fried Rice?
The total time to make Bang Bang Fried Rice includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Bang Bang Fried Rice ahead of time?
Yes, Bang Bang Fried Rice can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Fried Rice?
Bang Bang Fried Rice pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Bang Bang Fried Rice suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Bang Bang Fried Rice may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Fried Rice isn’t just a recipe; it’s a thread that connects me to Mama Lou’s kitchen and the joyful chaos of cooking with Ouma. It’s about more than just ingredients—it’s about love, memories, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal. Whenever I stir that spicy, creamy sauce into the rice, I feel like I’m carrying forward a little piece of my family’s story.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s flavorful, comforting, and steeped in tradition yet easy to make, I hope you’ll give this Bang Bang Fried Rice a try. And as you cook, maybe you’ll find yourself reminiscing about your own kitchen stories, or creating new ones with the people you love.
