Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 oz thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups cooked white rice, cold
- 1 cup batata palha, plus 1/2 cup more for serving
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Place the diced bacon in a cold large skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook until the bacon becomes crispy. Once cooked, push the bacon to one side of the pan without removing it to retain the rendered fat for flavor.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the finely diced onion to the empty side of the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, which builds a sweet, savory base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aroma without burning.
- Soft Scramble the Eggs: Push the cooked bacon, onion, and garlic to the sides of the pan to create space in the center. Crack the eggs into the center and season lightly with salt. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are softly scrambled and tender, not dry.
- Mix in Rice: Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet, tossing to combine and break up any clumps. Cook until the rice is heated through evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Herbs and Batata Palha: Stir in 1 cup of batata palha, chopped parsley, and sliced green onions. Toss everything thoroughly to blend flavors and textures.
- Serve with Crunch: Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup batata palha on top just before serving to add extra crunch and the signature texture of this dish.
Notes
- Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portions.
- Batata palha are thin, crispy shoestring potatoes that provide the signature crunch. Find them at Brazilian stores or online, or make them at home using a recipe.
- Use cold, day-old rice for best texture; freshly cooked rice can turn mushy. If needed, chill freshly cooked rice for 30–60 minutes before using.
- Soft scramble the eggs gently so they remain tender and creamy, avoiding overcooking which can dry out the dish.
- Adding some batata palha mixed in adds flavor, while topping right before serving maintains crunchiness.
- Adjust bacon amount for richness: 6 oz keeps it balanced, while up to 8 oz creates a more indulgent steakhouse-style version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Brazilian
