When thinking of flavorful and aromatic rice dishes, one cannot overlook the delicious Basil Fried Rice, also known as Vietnamese Com Rang Hanh. This dish is a fusion of Vietnamese and Thai cuisines, where basil leaves are used to create a unique and refreshing twist on the classic fried rice.

Basil Fried Rice is a popular street food in Vietnam, traditionally made with day-old rice, fresh basil leaves, and a combination of vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. The key ingredient that sets this dish apart is the fresh basil leaves, which infuse the rice with a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup protein of your choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.)
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions

To make Basil Fried Rice, start by heating a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.

Add the protein of your choice and cook until fully cooked. Push the protein to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix them with the protein.

Push the protein and eggs to one side of the pan and add the remaining cooking oil. Add the diced carrot and bell pepper, stir-frying until slightly softened.

Next, add the cooked rice and break up any clumps with a spatula. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.

Finally, add the chopped basil leaves and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the basil is wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Conclusion

Basil Fried Rice is a simple yet satisfying dish that is bursting with fresh flavors and aromas. With the addition of fragrant basil leaves, this Vietnamese twist on fried rice elevates the dish to a whole new level. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or as part of a larger feast, Basil Fried Rice is sure to impress with its delicious taste and vibrant colors. Try making this dish at home and experience the delightful fusion of Vietnamese and Thai flavors in every bite!