Garlic Chive Fried Rice | Korean-Inspired One-Pan Comfort Rice with a Savoury Twist

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Garlic chive fried rice is a fragrant, savoury Korean-inspired rice dish that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. With aromatic garlic chives, fluffy rice, soft scrambled eggs, and a punch of umami from soy sauce and roasted seaweed, this dish delivers bold flavour with minimal effort. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with character—perfect for busy days when you want something homemade yet exciting.

Garlic chives are a staple ingredient in many Korean home-style dishes, prized for their mild garlicky aroma and natural sweetness when cooked quickly over high heat. This fried rice highlights that flavour beautifully, combining chewy rice grains with nutty sesame oil, gentle heat from gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes), and a touch of oligo syrup for balance. The addition of scrambled eggs adds richness, while crumbled roasted seaweed brings a final burst of umami. Garlic chives should look vibrant green and firm, with no yellowing—freshness is key for the best aroma. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

  • Garlic chives → Provide a mild garlic flavour with a tender bite and aromatic freshness.
  • Cooked rice → Acts as the base, soaking up seasoning while staying fluffy and satisfying.
  • Eggs → Add richness, protein, and a soft, creamy texture.
  • Soy sauce → Delivers depth and savoury umami.
  • Gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes) → Adds gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
  • Oligo syrup → Balances saltiness with subtle sweetness.
  • Sesame oil & sesame seeds → Bring nuttiness and authentic Korean aroma.
  • Roasted seaweed (gim/nori) → Adds crunch and a final umami boost. 


Garlic Chive Fried Rice Recipe 

Cook Time: 10 minutes |Total Time: 20 minutes |Cuisine Type: Korean-inspired |Calories (Estimate): ~480 kcal per serving |Serving Size: 2 servings

📝 Ingredients

  • 140 g garlic chives (about 5 oz), cut into 4–5 cm pieces
  • 2 servings cooked rice (about 2½ cups / 400 g / 14 oz)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chilli flakes)
  • 1 tablespoon oligo syrup (or honey/maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 packet roasted seaweed (gim/nori), crushed
  • 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable or canola oil)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Heat the pan
    • Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat (180–190°C / 355–375°F).
    • Add neutral oil and let it heat until shimmering.
  2. Cook the garlic chives
    • Add chopped garlic chives to the pan. 

    • Stir-fry briefly for 20–30 seconds until fragrant but still bright green.
  3. Add rice and seasoning
    • Add cooked rice, breaking it up gently.
    • Stir in soy sauce, gochugaru, oligo syrup, and sesame seeds.
    • Mix well until the rice is evenly coated.
  4. Scramble the eggs
    • Push the rice to one side of the pan.
    • Crack in the eggs and scramble gently until just set. 

    • Mix eggs into the rice thoroughly. 

  5. Finish the dish
    • Drizzle with sesame oil and toss to combine.
    • Add crushed roasted seaweed and mix lightly. 

  6. Serve
    • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    • Serve hot straight from the pan.

Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

  • No garlic chives? Use spring onions (scallions) or Chinese chives.
  • Vegan option: Skip eggs and add pan-fried tofu or mushrooms.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
  • Extra flavour: Add kimchi or a spoon of kimchi juice.
  • Time-saving tip: Use day-old rice for better texture and faster frying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but slightly cooled or day-old rice gives the best texture.

What can I substitute for gochugaru?
Use chilli flakes or a small amount of chilli oil.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add roasted seaweed just before serving for best texture.

Wrap-Up 

This garlic chive fried rice proves that simple ingredients can create incredible flavour with the right technique. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for any time you crave something savoury and satisfying. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how you made it your own. What’s your favourite ingredient to add to fried rice?
For easier rice dishes, try this Spam Musubi Rice Ball recipe on my blog. 

Keywords (키워드)

Garlic chive fried rice, Korean fried rice, easy fried rice recipe, garlic chive recipes, quick rice dishes, 부추 볶음밥, 한국식 볶음밥, 부추 요리, 간단한 볶음밥, 집밥 레시피


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