Fried rice is a delicious and versatile dish that you can easily make on a Blackstone griddle. The Blackstone griddle offers a large, flat cooking surface that is perfect for frying rice, vegetables, and proteins all at once. With the right temperature and a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful fried rice that rivals your favorite takeout.
You’ll start by preheating your Blackstone griddle to the ideal range of 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Adding a bit of oil helps to prevent sticking and gives the rice a nice crispy texture. Begin by cooking your vegetables and proteins, then mix in cooled, pre-cooked rice to absorb all those delicious flavors. Don’t forget to press the rice into a thin layer and let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to get that sought-after crispy finish.
Incorporating different ingredients like peas, carrots, onions, and even chicken or shrimp can elevate the dish to suit your taste. Using a Blackstone griddle allows for excellent heat distribution and makes it easy to cook everything to perfection. Enjoy the process and savor the resulting meal that is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Preparing the Ingredients
Preparing perfect fried rice on a Blackstone griddle involves selecting the right rice and proteins, prepping vegetables, and gathering essential seasonings and sauces.
Choosing the Right Rice and Proteins
Start with cooked rice. Jasmine rice is a great choice due to its fragrance and texture. Cold rice, preferably left overnight in the fridge, works best as it’s less sticky.
For proteins, consider chicken, pork, or eggs. Dice the chicken or pork into small, bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking. If using shrimp or beef, similar small cuts work well.
Eggs add a rich flavor and texture. Crack and lightly scramble them before adding to the griddle.
Veggie Selection and Prep
Vegetables are crucial for both flavor and nutrition. Popular choices include carrots, peas, and onion. Dice the carrots and onions finely for quick cooking; frozen peas work perfectly as they thaw quickly on the griddle.
Green onions add a fresh, mild flavor. Chop the green part finely and use it as a garnish. Incorporate garlic for an aromatic boost; mince it finely to ensure it spreads flavor evenly.
Seasonings and Sauces
Begin with soy sauce for its umami richness. Use salt and pepper to taste. Butter or sesame oil enhances the depth of flavor and adds a slight nutty taste.
Other great additions can include oyster sauce or fish sauce for a more complex flavor profile. Garlic powder or fresh garlic can be used for an extra kick. Have all your oil, seasonings, and sauces ready to use as you cook.
Preparing these ingredients correctly ensures a balanced, flavorful fried rice every time you cook on your Blackstone griddle.
Cooking on the Blackstone Griddle
Cooking fried rice on a Blackstone griddle involves three key steps: heating the griddle and cooking the proteins, mixing in the rice and veggies, and adding the finishing touches before serving. Each step ensures the dish is flavorful, evenly cooked, and delicious.
Heating the Griddle and Cooking Proteins
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle to 350-425 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a kitchen thermometer to get an accurate reading. Once the griddle is hot, add about one tablespoon of oil. Spread it evenly using a metal spatula.
Next, place your diced or sliced proteins like chicken, shrimp, or beef on the oiled surface. Cook each side for about 2-4 minutes, depending on the type and thickness of the protein. For chicken, ensure it is well-cooked before moving to the next step. Use different sections of the griddle if you’re cooking multiple proteins.
Mixing in the Rice and Veggies
After the proteins are cooked, push them to one side of the griddle. Add more oil if needed, then start adding your vegetables. Common choices include peas, carrots, and onions. Cook until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Next, add your cold, day-old rice to the center of the griddle. Break up any clumps using the spatula. Mix the rice with the vegetables, ensuring everything is combined well. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. This gives the rice a nice texture and flavor.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Once the rice and veggies are mixed and cooked, add the proteins back into the mix. Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce over the fried rice. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors are well-distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
For added flavor, you can also include ingredients like chopped green onions, sesame oil, or scrambled eggs. Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Enjoy your delicious homemade Blackstone fried rice with family and friends.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
