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Coconut and Turmeric Fried Rice

Coconut and Turmeric Fried Rice for a Vibrant Brunch Treat

This Coconut and Turmeric Fried Rice is a vibrant dish that combines rich coconut and sweet Medjool dates, creating an unforgettable brunch full of flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tropical
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Rice
  • 3 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Use coconut oil for richer flavor.
  • 6 pieces Medjool Dates Adds natural sweetness.
  • 3 stalks Scallions Freshness and mild onion flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Offers savory depth.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Infuses aromatic flavor; can be omitted.
  • 1 inch Unpeeled Ginger Adds warmth; use ground ginger if fresh is not available.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Gives vibrant color and earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors.
  • 4 cups Cooled Cooked Long-Grain White Rice Leftover rice works best.
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Coconut Flakes Provides crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Adds umami; use tamari for gluten-free.
  • 1/2 cup Cilantro Leaves Fresh herb for garnish.
  • 1/2 cup Mint Leaves Fresh herb for garnish.
  • 1 unit Limes For acidity.

Equipment

  • Large Nonstick Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coconut and Turmeric Fried Rice
  1. Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Sauté Medjool dates, scallions, minced garlic, bay leaves, ginger, turmeric, and kosher salt for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the sautéed mixture to a bowl, discarding the bay leaves.
  4. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and 4 cups of cold, cooked rice. Press into an even layer and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes.
  5. Gently stir until golden and crisp, then fold in coconut flakes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Add the reserved aromatic mixture and soy sauce, mixing gently and cooking for another minute.
  7. Fold in fresh cilantro and mint, and squeeze lime juice over the top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 6gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best texture, use day-old, cooled rice and avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking.

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