Arroz Biro-Biro (Brazilian Fried Rice)
Arroz Biro-Biro is a classic Brazilian steakhouse rice made with fluffy white rice, crispy bacon, softly scrambled eggs, fresh herbs, and crunchy batata palha. This easy Brazilian fried rice comes together in one pan and is the perfect side dish for grilled meats.
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
- Place the diced bacon in a cold large skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook until crispy. Once done, push the bacon to one side of the pan (don’t remove).
- Add the diced onion to the empty side of the pan and cook until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Push everything to the sides to create space in the center. Add the eggs and season lightly with salt.
- Cook, stirring gently, until softly scrambled (still tender, not dry).
- Add the cold rice and toss to combine, breaking up any clumps. Cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in 1 cup of batata palha, parsley, and green onions. Toss to combine.
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup batata palha just before serving for extra crunch.
Notes
- Nutrition is an estimate and will vary depending on ingredients used.
- About batata palha: Batata palha are thin, crispy shoestring potatoes that add the signature crunch to this dish. You can find them at Brazilian markets or online (look for brands like Yoki or Amalia). If you can’t find them, you can make them at home with my recipe!
- Use cold rice: Day-old rice works best. Fresh rice can turn soft or mushy. If you don't have leftover rice, cook a new batch then spread it on a tray and chill for 30–60 minutes before using.
- Soft scramble the eggs: Cook them gently until just set and slightly creamy. Overcooked eggs can make the dish dry.
- Add more batata palha at the end: Mixing some in adds flavor, but topping right before serving keeps that signature crunch.
- Adjust richness: 6 oz bacon keeps it balanced; use up to 8 oz for a more indulgent, steakhouse-style version.
Nutrition
Calories: 412kcal, Carbohydrates: 45g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 10g, Trans Fat: 0.1g, Cholesterol: 128mg, Sodium: 427mg, Potassium: 363mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 422IU, Vitamin C: 9mg, Calcium: 46mg, Iron: 2mg