This Fried Rice Recipe brings the delightful flavors of hibachi-style cooking right into your kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side. With its combination of savory vegetables, fluffy rice, and rich soy sauce, you’ll find it hard to resist seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This fried rice recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The buttery soy sauce blend enhances the taste of the rice and veggies, giving you that beloved takeout flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Whether served as a side or main course, this dish pairs well with various proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- Budget-Friendly: Enjoy restaurant-quality fried rice without breaking the bank.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious hibachi-style fried rice, having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: A spacious cooking surface allows for even frying and prevents overcrowding, ensuring each grain of rice gets cooked properly.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in tossing the ingredients efficiently while preventing them from sticking to the pan.
Ingredients
This simple and flavorful hibachi-inspired fried rice is perfect as a main or side dish. Made with cold rice, sautéed vegetables, scrambled egg, and a buttery soy sauce blend, it’s quick to whip up and tastes just like takeout—without the extra cost.
For the Fried Rice
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or long-grain/jasmine)
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2–3 tablespoons peanut, canola, or vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Chill the Rice
Cook rice ahead of time and chill for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) so it’s firm and not sticky.
Step 2: Prepare Butter-Soy Sauce
Soften butter at room temperature or microwave gently. Mash with a fork and mix with soy sauce. It’s okay if it’s not fully blended.
Step 3: Scramble the Egg
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the egg and scramble it by breaking it into small chunks. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
Add another splash of oil to the skillet. Sauté carrots, peas, and onion for about 4 minutes until tender. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside with scrambled egg.
Step 5: Fry the Rice
Add a final splash of oil to the skillet. Add cold rice and fry for 4–5 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through and slightly browned. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
Step 6: Season with Butter Mixture
Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice. Stir until evenly coated without any white grains remaining.
Step 7: Combine and Finish
Add cooked veggies and scrambled egg back into the skillet. Drizzle with sesame oil if using; mix well. Taste and add more soy sauce if desired. Serve hot.
How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe
This hibachi-style fried rice is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether enjoyed solo or as part of a larger spread, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish and delight your guests.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it hot for a satisfying meal that stands on its own.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed option.
With Fresh Garnishes
- Top with sliced green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Add sesame seeds for a nutty crunch that complements the rice.
In Bowls
- Present in individual bowls for a cozy, casual dining experience.
- Layer with additional vegetables like bok choy or broccoli.
Accompanied by Sauces
- Serve with extra soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bolder taste.
- Offer sriracha or chili oil for those who prefer a spicy kick.
How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe
To achieve the best hibachi-style fried rice, consider these essential tips. They will help you create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout spot.
- Use cold rice: Chilled rice prevents clumping and ensures each grain heats evenly.
- Prep ingredients first: Having everything ready before cooking keeps your process smooth and fast.
- Control heat carefully: Adjust the stovetop temperature to avoid burning while getting that perfect crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; this allows better frying and prevents steaming.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other sauces like teriyaki for variety in taste.
- Finish with sesame oil: A drizzle at the end enhances flavor and aroma beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your hibachi-style fried rice can enhance the overall meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this dish well.
- Japanese Gyoza: Savory dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
- Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup made from miso paste, tofu, and seaweed that balances the meal.
- Edamame: Steamed young soybeans sprinkled with sea salt offer a healthy snack option rich in protein.
- Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies provide a crispy texture contrast to the soft fried rice.
- Seaweed Salad: A refreshing salad made from marinated seaweed, offering a tangy flavor profile that complements the richness of fried rice.
- Pickled Ginger: Bright and tangy pickled ginger adds a zesty touch that cleanses the palate between bites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking hibachi-style fried rice can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clumpy. Always use cold, cooked rice for the best texture in your fried rice recipe.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Cook just until tender to maintain a nice bite in your dish.
- Not preheating the skillet: If the skillet is not hot enough, the rice might stick and not fry properly. Ensure your skillet or wok is heated before adding ingredients.
- Skipping the butter-soy sauce mix: This mixture is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip it; drizzle it generously over the rice for a delicious finish.
- Neglecting seasonings: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland fried rice. Always taste before serving and add more soy sauce if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Fried Rice Recipe
- Allow the fried rice to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for storage.
- Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Fried Rice Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion of fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second increments until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fried rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Fried Rice Recipe taste better?
To enhance your fried rice recipe, consider adding aromatics like garlic or ginger during cooking. You may also mix in proteins such as chicken or shrimp.
Can I customize this Fried Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you enjoy, like bell peppers or broccoli, and substitute different proteins based on your preference.
What’s the best type of rice for Fried Rice Recipe?
Short-grain rice gives a nice chewy texture, but you can also use long-grain or jasmine rice. Just ensure it’s cold when frying.
How long does Hibachi-style Fried Rice last?
Hibachi-style fried rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This hibachi-style fried rice recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and proteins to suit your tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy delicious homemade fried rice that rivals takeout!
PrintFried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This easy hibachi-style fried rice recipe brings the delicious flavors of your favorite Japanese takeout right to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is made with fluffy rice, sautéed vegetables, and a rich soy sauce blend that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or long-grain/jasmine)
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2–3 tablespoons peanut, canola, or vegetable oil
- Optional: 2 teaspoons sesame oil
Instructions
- Chill the cooked rice in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter with soy sauce and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat and scramble the egg until fully cooked; set aside.
- Sauté carrots, peas, and onion in the same skillet for about 4 minutes until tender; season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add more oil to the skillet and fry the chilled rice for 4–5 minutes until heated through.
- Drizzle the butter-soy mixture over the rice and stir until well coated.
- Combine scrambled egg and vegetables with the rice; add sesame oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 124mg
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