How to Reheat Fried Rice:Â Ways to Perfection
Do you enjoy fried rice a lot? It’s easy to make, wholesome, plus can be made in big batches without worrying about leftovers!
Although, reheated fried rice tends to lose its moisture and become chewy.
Here’s how you can reheat fried rice to perfection!
A Quick Note on Methods of Reheating Fried Rice
I’ve saved you the trouble of figuring out how to reheat fried rice by trying four alternative methods.
I made a huge amount of fried rice and stored it in the fridge for the night. The following morning, I tried 4 different strategies to reheat the rice and found one that worked the best.
The methods I tried are:
1. Reheating fried rice in a skillet/won (best result, time-consuming).
2. Reheating fried rice in a microwave (time-saving, easy to overcook).
3. Reheating fried rice in an air fryer (fluffy rice, easy to overcook).
4. Reheating fried rice in an oven (work for big batches, more time).
Pro Tip:
From my experience, refrying fried rice in a skillet is the ideal reheating method. Heat some butter or oil at a medium-high temperature. Add 1 tablespoon of water for every cup of rice, then add the fried rice. Stirring continually, heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Another option if you’re in a hurry is to use the microwave. That will save you time, and the refried rice tastes delicious.
Ways to Reheat Fried Rice
You can reheat fried rice in a microwave, stovetop skillet, air fryer, or oven. We put in extensive research and testing to provide this comprehensive guide for you on how to reheat fried rice.
Let’s go through each process one at a time.
1. How to Reheat Fried Rice in a Skillet
The best way, in my opinion, to reheat fried rice is in a skillet over low heat. This prevents any components from becoming mushy and maintains a uniform texture throughout. If you like, you may even add another egg and some veggies.
Instructions
- Begin by heating a pan with either oil or butter over medium heat.
- Put in the remaining fried rice and add water at one to two tablespoons for every cup of rice.
- Before covering the pan, give the rice a quick toss to include the water, and wait for the steam to cease, around 30 seconds.
- Increase the flame to high, remove the cover, and stir-fry for four to five minutes.
Pros
The best method of reheating fried rice. Whether you want to know the best method to reheat chicken fried rice or how to reheat Chinese rice, reheating them in the skillet is always the answer.
Cons
This method can be time-consuming.
You will be left with some greasy utensils. Cleaning afterward can be tiresome.
Pro Tip: To keep the rice from being too dry and overcooked, just add water or an ice cube. When the water has been absorbed, the rice can be fried to restore its crisp texture.
2. How to Reheat Fried Rice in a Microwave
Reheating fried rice in the microwave is the most frequent method because it is both the quickest and most convenient option. The microwave is effective, but since it heats food so rapidly, it might cause the rice to become too dry quickly.
A drop or two of liquid should be added to the rice to get the desired results of having rice that is both fluffy and wet.
Instructions
- Get a microwave-safe dish and put the fried rice in it. Put a cup or two of liquid, such as broth or water.
- Put a paper towel lid on the bowl. You need a vent so that part of the steam may escape while the rice steams from below. If you must use a lid, leave it off a corner.
- Cook for around 2 minutes in the pot.
- remove the cover and stir the rice if it still needs more time.
- When the rice reaches a sizzling temperature, you’ll know it’s ready.
- Rest it for a minute before serving.
Pros
This method is time-saving and easy. The rice has a great flavor and texture after reheating
Cons
The fried rice can be easily overcooked and mushy if you are not cautious.
Pro Tip: Exercise caution to prevent burns after removing the dish from the microwave.
3. How to Reheat Fried Rice in Air Fryer
You can successfully reheat fried rice in an air fryer. It’s quicker than the microwave but not as fast as the oven or stove.
You don’t even need to add fluids; it naturally repels moisture.
Instructions
- Put a sheet of foil over the basket of your air fryer and put out your fried rice.
- Lightly spraying oil over the fried rice is optional.
- Prepare at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Warm it up until it’s piping hot. If you want to be cautious, you may add two or three minutes.
- Let it cool down a bit before serving.
Pros
This method is easy. The rice turns up perfectly cooked and fluffy.
Cons
The rice is easily overcooked. In need of some supplementary equipment, such as a foil.
Pro Tip: Reheating a large quantity of rice is best done in stages rather than by overloading the basket. The key to perfectly crisp fried rice is to keep the rice spread out in a thin layer.
4. How to Reheat Fried Rice in Oven
If you need to feed a large number of people, cooking all of your rice at once in the microwave or heaping it onto a skillet might not be a viable choice. Consider re-heating your dish in the oven if you are preparing more rice. Oil, butter, or cooking spray may be used to coat the baking dish, and any of these three options can be used to guarantee that your remaining fried rice does not become too browned or sticky.
Instructions
- Set the temperature to between 425 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add a few handfuls of water or stock and place the dish in the oven.
- Add liquid as needed. How much you’ll need depends on how much-fried rice is left over.
- Be sure to cover the dish with the lid if you want the rice to retain its moisture.
- 15 minutes at 425°F to 450°F under a tight cover.
- Take the lid off after 15 minutes to let some steam out
Pros
You can reheat a lot of fried rice at once.
Cons
It is a slow method and the fried rice is easily overcooked.
How to Store Fried Rice
It doesn’t have to be hard to store fried rice. You can make your delicious meal last for days with just a few easy steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to the right way to store fried rice.
Step 1: Let the fried rice cool down
Before you put away fried rice, you need to let it cool down first. When your fried rice is cooked properly, spread it out on a baking tray or tray to cool down fast. This will keep the rice from staying too hot for too long, which can make it go bad faster.
Step 2: Putting the fried rice together
Once your fried rice has cooled down, you can put it in a container and seal it. To do this, get a container or bag that won’t let air in and fill it with fried rice. Before you seal it, make sure to press out as much air as you can. This will help the fried rice stay fresh and tasty for a longer time.
Step 3: Putting the fried rice in the fridge
Now that the fried rice is sealed and ready to go, put it in the refrigerator. Put the bag or container of fried rice in the back of the fridge, which is usually the coldest part. This will help keep the temperature safe and stop bacteria from growing.
Step 4: Cook the fried rice again
When you’re ready to eat your tasty fried rice again, just take it out of the fridge and put it in a dish that can go in the microwave. For 1–2 minutes, or until it’s hot and ready to eat, heat it. If you prefer, you can also heat it on the stove.
How Long Does Fried Rice Last?
When preserved properly, fried rice is a tasty dish that may be enjoyed for several days after it has been prepared. Nevertheless, for how long does it continue? The table below provides information on how long fried rice may be stored at room temperature, in the refrigerator, and in the freezer.
At Room Temperature
When left at room temperature, fried rice will stay fresh for up to two hours. This is due to the presence of the rice, which, when allowed to remain at room temperature, may very quickly transform into a fertile environment for the growth of bacteria. It is recommended that you consume your fried rice no later than two hours after it has been prepared.
In the Refrigerator
When stored in the refrigerator, fried rice may stay fresh for up to five days. Keep it in a container that won’t let air in so that it will last longer. This will assist in preventing bacteria and other pollutants from entering, which can lead to the deterioration of food.
In the Freezer
Up to three months’ worth of fried rice may be stored in the freezer. Wrapping it firmly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then storing it in a container that doesn’t let air in will help it keep its flavor longer. Because of this, any moisture that may cause the rice to get mushy will be prevented from getting in.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a foolproof guide on “How to Reheat Fried Rice” without compromising taste or texture!
From traditional reheating methods to creative tricks, there’s a perfect way to reheat your fried rice for everyone. Discover yours!
