Crispy Rice Peanut Sesame (Print)

Crunchy fried rice meets fresh vegetables in a creamy peanut-sesame dressing. Ready in 40 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Crispy Rice Base

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→ Peanut Sesame Dressing

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→ Salad Vegetables

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→ Toppings

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# How to Make:

01 - Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chilled rice and salt, spreading in an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until bottom forms a golden crust. Toss rice and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy throughout, approximately 10 minutes total. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
02 - Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, grated garlic, and grated ginger in a medium bowl until smooth. Add water one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously, until dressing reaches pourable consistency.
03 - Combine cooled crispy rice, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, purple cabbage, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with half the peanut dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Divide salad among serving bowls. Top evenly with chopped roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced red chili if desired. Serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side for additional seasoning.

# Expert Advice:

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  • The contrast of hot crispy rice against cool fresh vegetables creates that perfect texture balance
  • This dressing keeps in the fridge for days, making weeknight salads effortless
  • You can prep everything ahead and just assemble when you are ready to eat
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  • The rice must be cold and completely dry before you fry it, fresh steamed rice will just steam itself into a sticky mess
  • Do not crowd the pan when crisping the rice, work in batches if necessary so each grain has contact with the hot pan
  • The dressing thickens in the refrigerator, so let it come to room temperature and whisk in another splash of water before using
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  • Spread the rice in a thinner layer for maximum surface area and crunch
  • If your dressing feels too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds before whisking in water

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