Crispy Rice Peanut Sesame Salad (Print version)
Crunchy fried rice meets fresh vegetables in a creamy peanut-sesame dressing
# What you need:
→ Crispy Rice Base
01 - 3 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice, day-old and chilled
02 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Peanut Sesame Dressing
04 - 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
05 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
06 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
08 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
10 - 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
11 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
12 - 2-3 tablespoons water, to thin dressing
→ Salad Vegetables
13 - 1 cup shredded carrots
14 - 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
15 - 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
16 - 1/2 cup chopped scallions
17 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
→ Toppings
18 - 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
19 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
20 - 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced
# Directions:
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 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, cucumber, purple cabbage, chopped scallions, and fresh cilantro in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with half the prepared dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Divide salad among serving bowls. Top each portion with chopped roasted peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh chili slices. Serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side for additional seasoning.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- The crispy rice creates this incredible texture contrast that makes every bite exciting
- You can prep everything ahead and assemble in minutes for easy weeknight dinners
- The dressing doubles as a dip for fresh spring rolls or roasted vegetables
02 -
- Cold, dry rice is absolutely essential for achieving crispy results, so never try to use warm, freshly cooked rice
- The dressing will thicken in the refrigerator, so let it come to room temperature and whisk in a splash of water before using
03 -
- Work in batches when frying the rice if your skillet is small to prevent steaming instead of crisping
- Taste your dressing before adding all the water, then adjust the consistency to your exact preference