Fried Rice Recipe

This Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of hibachi right to your kitchen. Packed with colorful veggies and aromatic seasonings, it’s perfect for dinner or as a side dish at any gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a small family meal or a larger group, this versatile recipe shines in its simplicity and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Rice Recipe

This fried rice recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of butter, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious taste that will impress everyone.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like rice and frozen vegetables makes this an affordable option.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with the fried rice recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for even cooking and tossing ingredients without spilling.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the egg into small pieces during cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for whisking eggs and combining sauces before adding them to the rice.

Ingredients

This simple hibachi-inspired fried rice is packed with flavor and easy to make. Made with white rice, butter, soy sauce, and veggies, it’s a delicious and versatile dish perfect for dinner or as a side.

For the Rice

• 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (long-grain or jasmine rice also works)

For the Veggies

• 1 egg, whisked/scrambled
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup peas (frozen recommended)
• 1/2 cup white onion, chopped

For Cooking

• 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: Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) so it’s cold and firm for frying.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave the butter on the counter to soften. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in short intervals until soft. Mash the butter with a fork, then mix in the soy sauce. It’s okay if it doesn’t combine completely.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the whisked egg and scramble it. Use the tip of a spatula to break it into small chunks. Remove the egg from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil to the skillet. Then add the carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet onto the same plate as the egg.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add another splash of oil to the skillet followed by cold, cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds to warm through while lightly browning it over 4-5 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice while tossing to coat evenly. Continue cooking until no more visible white grains remain.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return veggies and scrambled egg back to skillet. Drizzle with sesame oil if using; stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if desired. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Serve your fried rice alongside juicy grilled chicken for a filling meal.
• Shrimp: Add sautéed shrimp on top for a delightful seafood twist.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu pairs wonderfully with fried rice.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Scoop fried rice into fresh lettuce leaves for a crunchy and healthy alternative.
• Nori Sheets: Use seaweed sheets to wrap up fried rice for an Asian-inspired treat.

In a Bowl

• Rice Bowl: Top your fried rice with additional veggies and a fried egg for a hearty bowl meal.
• Soup Base: Serve it in broth for a comforting, soupy version of fried rice.

How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe

Creating the perfect fried rice requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results.

• Use cold rice: Ensure your cooked rice is chilled before frying. This prevents clumping and allows for better texture.
• Prep ingredients beforehand: Have all your veggies and proteins chopped and ready. This speeds up cooking and ensures everything cooks evenly.
• High heat is key: Cook on high heat to achieve that signature wok hei flavor. It helps in getting the right char without overcooking the ingredients.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If making a large batch, consider frying in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Season well: Taste as you go! Adjust the soy sauce and seasoning according to your preference during cooking for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice pairs excellently with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and umami to your meal.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for an excellent appetizer, offering texture and flavor contrast.
3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame provides a healthy snack option that’s easy to prepare.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled teriyaki chicken skewers add protein and sweetness that goes well with fried rice.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the fried rice with its crispness.
6. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered tempura vegetables offer an enjoyable crunch alongside your dish.
7. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable side adds spice and tanginess that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried rice can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using hot rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together. Always chill your cooked rice for at least an hour before frying.
• Skipping the oil: Not using enough oil can lead to sticking. Ensure you use adequate oil in the skillet to help fry the rice evenly.
• Overcooking the veggies: Sautéing vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender to maintain their texture.
• Not seasoning correctly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland fried rice. Taste as you go and adjust the soy sauce and other seasonings as needed.
• Crowding the pan: Overloading the skillet prevents proper frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• It can stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storing fried rice.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely with a lid. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or oil and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Fried Rice Recipe special?

This fried rice recipe is inspired by hibachi-style cooking, making it flavorful and easy to prepare at home.

Can I customize this Fried Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and even swap out vegetables based on your preference.

How do I prevent my Fried Rice from being sticky?

Using cold, day-old rice is key. Freshly cooked rice has too much moisture which leads to stickiness.

What type of soy sauce should I use for this Fried Rice Recipe?

Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better.

Is this Fried Rice Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies. Try it today and enjoy a flavorful dish that works great as a main course or a side!