Mastering Bobby Flay’s Famous Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice Recipe

Discover the secret behind one of Bobby Flay’s most iconic and winning dishes: the Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice. This extraordinary side dish, celebrated for its irresistible crispy bottom and fragrant coconut flavor, has not only delighted guests in Bobby Flay’s home kitchen but also proved to be a decisive factor in his victories on the popular television show, *Beat Bobby Flay*. If you’re looking to elevate your home cooking with a simple yet profoundly flavorful recipe, look no further.

Chef Bobby Flay’s latest culinary masterpiece, the cookbook Bobby At Home: Fearless Flavors From My Kitchen, offers a delightful glimpse into his personal cooking world. Featuring over 165 recipes, this collection highlights dishes he passionately prepares for his cherished family and close friends. Many of these creations, born in the warmth of his home kitchen, have even made their way to the competitive arena of *Beat Bobby Flay*, demonstrating their undeniable appeal and culinary prowess. The Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice is a prime example of such a dish that transitioned from a family favorite to a championship contender.

“This recipe for Coconut Scallion Rice only takes 4 ingredients. If there is one single dish that is responsible for me winning on *Beat Bobby Flay*, it is this one. Not served on its own, obviously, but alongside braises and Asian-inspired dishes. If the judges were tied on their decision, this coconut rice, with its crispy bottom, was the deciding factor. It should come as no surprise that it is just as popular when I serve it at home.” — Bobby Flay

Bobby Flay’s candid endorsement of this Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice underscores its significance. It’s more than just a side; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when handled with expert technique, can create an unforgettable culinary experience. The dish’s profound depth of flavor and texture, especially that coveted crispy bottom, makes it an ideal companion to a wide array of main courses, from succulent braised meats to vibrant Asian-inspired creations. Its versatility and universal appeal make it a must-try for any home cook aspiring to infuse their meals with a touch of gourmet flair.

Unlocking Perfection: Essential Tips for Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice

Achieving the perfect crispy coconut scallion rice is an art, but one that is easily mastered with a few key techniques and insights. Bobby Flay’s recipe, while deceptively simple, benefits immensely from these expert tips designed to ensure maximum flavor and that irresistible crunchy texture. Dive into these pointers to transform your rice from good to truly extraordinary.

1. The Magic of Day-Old Rice: This is arguably the most critical tip for any fried rice, including Bobby Flay’s crispy coconut version. Using leftover rice that has been refrigerated for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, is non-negotiable. Freshly cooked, warm rice retains too much moisture, leading to a soggy texture when reheated. Refrigeration helps to dry out the rice grains, firming them up and preventing them from clumping. This process, known as starch retrogradation, is essential for achieving individual, crisp grains rather than a mushy mess.
2. No Leftover Rice? No Problem!: Don’t let a lack of pre-cooked rice deter you. You can quickly prepare rice for this recipe. After cooking, immediately spread the hot rice in a thin, even layer across a large baking sheet. Bobby Flay suggests letting it cool on the counter for 30 minutes. For even faster results and enhanced drying, after it has cooled slightly on the counter, you can place the entire baking sheet in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes or in the refrigerator for an hour. The goal is to rapidly cool and dry the rice, mimicking the effects of day-old rice. Ensure the grains are distinct and not sticking together before proceeding.
3. Choosing the Right Rice: While Bobby Flay specifically recommends Carolina long-grain rice for this recipe, other long-grain varieties work beautifully. Thai jasmine rice is another excellent choice, known for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky, yet distinct, texture when cooked. The key is to use a long-grain rice, as its lower starch content compared to short-grain varieties contributes to that desirable separation and crispness, rather than a risotto-like consistency.
4. Creative Additions: Elevate Your Crispy Rice: Bobby Flay’s recipe is a fantastic base, but it’s also incredibly adaptable to other ingredients.
   • Eggs: For a protein boost and added texture, gently scramble a couple of eggs in a separate pan with a touch of oil or butter. Season them lightly. Cook until just set but still a little soft, then remove. Add the cooked scrambled eggs to the large bowl with the cooled rice and scallions (at the beginning of step 3 in the recipe instructions). Stir well to combine before pressing into the hot pan.
   • Bacon: For a smoky, savory depth, crispy bacon is an exceptional addition. Cook several strips of bacon until perfectly crisp. Drain on paper towels, then chop finely. Incorporate the chopped bacon into the large bowl with the rice and scallions. The rendered bacon fat can even be used as part of the cooking oil for an extra layer of flavor.
   • Other Flavor Enhancers: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients. Sautéed minced garlic and ginger can add an aromatic punch. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. Small diced vegetables like carrots or peas, or even finely chopped mushrooms, can add color and nutrition. Remember the golden rule: any additional ingredients should be cooked separately and then folded into the rice mixture before its final crisping stage to ensure even cooking and texture.
5. The Unbeatable Cast Iron Pan: For achieving the ultimate crispy bottom, a cast iron pan is highly recommended. Cast iron’s exceptional heat retention and even heat distribution create a consistent, searing-hot surface crucial for caramelizing the rice and developing that beautiful golden-brown crust. If you don’t have cast iron, a heavy-duty nonstick skillet can also work, but you may need to monitor the heat more closely. Get that pan searing hot before adding the rice to ensure an immediate crisping reaction.
6. Perfecting the Crisp: Once the rice is in the hot pan, resist the urge to stir! The key to the crispy bottom is allowing the rice to sit undisturbed, forming a crust. Use a heavy-duty metal spatula to press the rice down firmly into the pan, ensuring maximum contact with the hot surface. Listen for the sizzle and look for the edges to turn golden. Don’t be afraid to let it cook for a full 5 minutes on each side; checking at 4 minutes is a good practice to prevent burning, but patience is vital for that desired crunch.

Bobby At Home: A Culinary Invitation

With over 165 bold and accessible recipes, Bobby At Home invites you into Bobby Flay’s personal kitchen, sharing his vibrant, approachable style of cooking for family and friends. This cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a masterclass in his no-nonsense, essential advice tailored specifically for home cooks.

Step into Bobby’s world, where powerhouse flavors reign supreme. In his most intimate cookbook to date, Bobby Flay generously shares over 165 daring yet approachable recipes that he prepares for his loved ones, alongside invaluable secrets for flawlessly executing them. From perfectly pan-seared meats and comforting, hearty pastas to generously portioned platters of roasted vegetables, vibrant salads, and delightfully casual desserts, every dish is infused with Bobby’s signature, unapologetic cooking style. Expect elevated classics bursting with exciting flavors, such as Spanish-style shrimp and grits, comforting pumpkin pancakes with apple cider syrup, and irresistibly sticky-savory-sweet Korean BBQ chicken. The book also encourages culinary creativity, inviting you to riff on staple dishes with Bobby’s master recipes for essentials, offering inventive variations that spin the core recipe in multiple directions to match your mood. Imagine crispy bacon glazed with pomegranate molasses, elegant deviled eggs crowned with fried oysters, or mussels steamed in a rich, aromatic green curry broth. With Bobby as your guide, cooking at home transcends routine and becomes an exhilarating adventure.

Meet the Chef: Bobby Flay’s Enduring Culinary Legacy

Bobby Flay stands as one of the most celebrated and influential figures in the culinary landscape. Renowned for his bold flavors and innovative approaches to American Southwestern cuisine, he is much more than just a chef; he is a successful restaurateur, a dynamic media personality, and a prolific author. A distinguished James Beard Award winner, Flay has penned an impressive 13 cookbooks, each a testament to his passion and expertise. His engaging presence has graced 14 Food Network programs, making him a household name and a beloved culinary educator. In a landmark achievement that solidified his status as a cultural icon, Bobby Flay became the first chef to be honored with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015. His unwavering commitment to quality, flavor, and culinary innovation continues to inspire aspiring chefs and home cooks alike.

Exclusive Opportunity: Bobby at Home Cookbook and Kirkland’s Gift Card Giveaway!

Don’t miss your chance to bring Bobby Flay’s culinary magic into your own home! We are thrilled to announce a special giveaway where you can win a copy of the highly acclaimed Bobby At Home cookbook. As an added bonus, one lucky winner will also receive a $100 gift card to Kirkland’s, perfect for adding cozy touches to your kitchen and home this winter. This exciting giveaway is proudly sponsored by Clarkson Potter, the esteemed publisher of Bobby At Home. Ready to cook like Bobby and refresh your home decor? Enter the giveaway here for your chance to win!

Bobby Flay’s Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice Recipe

By Bobby Flay

A winning recipe from Bobby Flay’s personal kitchen, featured in his cookbook “Bobby At Home”.

4.65 from 14 votes

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Prep Time

35 minutes
mins

Cook Time

30 minutes
mins

Course
Side Dish

Cuisine
Asian

Servings

4
people

Calories

368
kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1
  cup
  unsweetened full-fat canned coconut milk
• 2
  cup
  Carolina long-grain rice
• 1/2
  cup
  scallions
  thinly sliced
• salt and pepper
• 1/4
  cup
  canola oil

Instructions

 

• Combine the coconut milk, 2 teaspoons salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper and 1 cup water in a medium saucepan and bring to boil over high heat. Stir in the rice and bring back to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender, about 18 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the heat and let sit, covered for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Spread the rice in an even layer over a large baking sheet and let cool completely, about 30 minutes. The rice can be made up to 24 hours in advance; store it on a baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator.
• Combine the rice and scallions in a large bowl. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron or nonstick pan over high heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the rice and, using a heavy-duty metal spatula, immediately press the rice down into the pan until the top is flat. Cook, without stirring, until the bottom has become golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes (start checking at 4 minutes, making sure not to burn it). Turn the rice over and press down firmly on the top again. Cook until the bottom is golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes more. Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with more scallions, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving:
-44
g


Calories:
368
kcal


Carbohydrates:
26
g


Protein:
4
g


Fat:
29
g


Saturated Fat:
14
g


Sodium:
12
mg


Potassium:
220
mg


Fiber:
2
g


Sugar:
2
g


Vitamin A:
125
IU


Vitamin C:
4
mg


Calcium:
27
mg


Iron:
1
mg

Keyword
rice, coconut, scallion, crispy, bobby flay

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