I have to admit, I used to think leftover rice was only good for reheating with soy sauce and sesame oil. But then I tried this Indian Fried Rice with Peanuts, Chilies, & Cilantro Recipe, and wow—it completely changed the game for me.
The mix of crunchy peanuts, spicy chilies, and fresh cilantro turns simple rice into a flavor-packed dish. I love how easy it is, and the best part?
You don’t even have to fry the rice in the traditional way. Every bite feels bright, fresh, and totally irresistible. You can also enjoy this quick and comforting idea here 10-minute-cream-cheese-pasta-recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and cooled basmati rice – Day-old rice works best to avoid clumping.
- 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil – Ghee adds authentic flavor; olive oil works for a lighter version.
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds – Provides a nutty, aromatic crunch.
- 10-12 fresh curry leaves – Adds an unmistakable Indian fragrance.
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts – Gives a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced – Caramelizes beautifully for sweetness.
- 2-3 fresh green chilies, halved – Adjust heat to your taste.
- Juice of 1 lime – Brightens the dish and balances flavors.
- Salt to taste – Enhances all flavors.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Note: several serving
Variations
- Use cashews instead of peanuts for a creamier crunch.
- Swap green chilies for red chili flakes if you prefer milder heat.
- Make it vegan by using olive oil instead of ghee.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a more aromatic touch, sprinkle a pinch of garam masala at the end.
- If you enjoy flavorful protein-packed meals, you might also like this recipe slow-cooker-thai-peanut-chicken-recipe.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large mixing bowl – To combine rice and seasonings.
- Large skillet or braiser – For sautéing spices, onions, and peanuts.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For gentle mixing without breaking rice.
- Knife and cutting board – For slicing onions, chilies, and chopping cilantro.
How to Make Indian Fried Rice with Peanuts, Chilies, & Cilantro Recipe?
Prepare the Rice
Start by fluffing your day-old basmati rice in a large bowl. Drizzle the lime juice and sprinkle salt evenly over the rice. This first step infuses the rice with brightness and ensures every grain is seasoned.
Toast Spices and Peanuts
Heat ghee or olive oil in a skillet, add mustard seeds, and wait until they start to pop. Toss in curry leaves and peanuts, letting them sizzle until fragrant and golden. Pour this mixture over the rice for an aromatic base.
Sauté Onions and Chilies
In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions and halved green chilies until the onions begin to caramelize lightly. The sweetness of the onions balances the heat of the chilies perfectly, creating a delicious layer of flavor.
Combine and Finish
Add the sautéed onions and chilies to the rice along with chopped cilantro. Gently toss everything together, taste, and adjust with more lime juice and salt as desired. Serve immediately for the freshest flavors.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- I always use day-old rice because it holds its shape and absorbs flavors better.
- I like to toast peanuts in the skillet before adding other spices for a deeper nutty flavor.
- I adjust the lime juice at the end—it really brightens the whole dish.
- I chop cilantro just before serving to keep its freshness and color vibrant.
How to Serve Indian Fried Rice with Peanuts, Chilies, & Cilantro Recipe?
This fried rice is perfect as a side or main dish. I love serving it in a wide shallow bowl for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish with a few whole peanuts and extra cilantro sprigs on top. For a complete meal, pair it with curried chickpeas, roasted vegetables, or a simple yogurt raita.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 250–300 kcal – A light yet satisfying dish.
- Protein: 6–8 g – From peanuts and rice.
- Carbohydrates: 40–45 g – Provides steady energy.
- Fat: 10–12 g – Mostly from ghee and peanuts, adding richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Storing: Keep leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the rice in portions for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen:
- Easy to prepare – No need to fry rice perfectly; it comes together in minutes.
- Versatile – Add vegetables, swap nuts, or adjust spice levels.
- Flavor-packed – Tangy lime, aromatic curry leaves, and spicy chilies create depth.
- Vegan-friendly – Simple swaps make it suitable for all diets.
- Crowd-pleaser – The dish looks and tastes impressive with minimal effort.