Fried Rice

This Fried Rice recipe is a delightful and quick dish that captures the essence of hibachi-style cooking right in your kitchen. With its rich flavors and a mix of colorful vegetables, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meals. Enjoy the simplicity and versatility that this fried rice brings to your table!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Fried Rice
• For Garnish
• How to Make Fried Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Rice
• Step 2: Soften the Butter
• Step 3: Cook the Egg
• Step 4: Cook the Veggies
• Step 5: Fry the Rice
• Step 6: Season the Rice
• Step 7: Combine Everything
• How to Serve Fried Rice
• As a Main Course
• Paired with Protein
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Additional Sauces
• As a Side Dish
• How to Perfect Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Fried Rice
• Reheating Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make fried rice with brown rice?
• What is the best type of soy sauce for fried rice?
• How do I customize my fried rice?
• Is this fried rice recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What dishes pair well with this fried rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, butter, and fresh veggies creates a rich flavor profile that elevates plain rice to something special.
• Versatile: Customize your fried rice by adding different proteins or vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Fun to Make: Cooking fried rice is an interactive experience! Stir-frying allows you to engage with the ingredients while enjoying the sizzling sounds.
• Great for Leftovers: Fried rice makes an excellent option for utilizing leftover rice or cooked vegetables, minimizing waste and maximizing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious fried rice, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: A spacious surface allows for even cooking, preventing the rice from sticking together while achieving that perfect fry.
• Spatula: An essential tool for flipping and stirring ingredients without breaking them apart too much.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in preparing and organizing ingredients before cooking, ensuring a seamless cooking experience.

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 Fried Rice

• 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (long-grain or jasmine rice also works)
• 1 egg, whisked/scrambled
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup peas (frozen recommended)
• 1/2 cup white onion, chopped
• 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

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How to Make Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight). Cold rice is crucial for achieving that ideal texture when frying.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave unsalted butter on the counter until softened. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in short intervals until soft. Mash with a fork and mix in low-sodium soy sauce. It’s okay if they don’t combine completely.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the whisked egg and scramble it well. Use a spatula to break it into small chunks. Once cooked through, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil into the skillet. Toss in carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper before removing from heat.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Pour in another splash of oil into your skillet. Add cold, cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds for about 4-5 minutes until warmed through and lightly browned.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy sauce mixture over the warm rice while tossing everything together. Keep cooking until no white grains are visible.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked veggies and scrambled egg back into the skillet. If using sesame oil, drizzle it now. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot!

How to Serve Fried Rice

Fried rice is a wonderfully adaptable dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side, there are endless possibilities to enhance your meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve it hot in a bowl for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Top with sliced green onions for added flavor and color.

Paired with Protein

• Combine fried rice with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Add tofu for a vegetarian option that still packs protein.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon fried rice into large lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Drizzle with extra soy sauce or sesame oil for enhanced taste.

With Additional Sauces

• Offer sweet chili sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Provide teriyaki sauce to complement the savory flavors of the fried rice.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside your favorite Asian-style dishes like teriyaki chicken or beef stir-fry.
• Pair with sushi rolls to create an impressive Japanese-inspired spread.

How to Perfect Fried Rice

Perfecting fried rice involves paying attention to some key techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish every time you make it.

• Use cold rice: Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture; fresh rice can become mushy.
• Prepped ingredients: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
• High heat: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve that signature smoky flavor; it helps the ingredients sear nicely.
• Don’t overcrowd: If making a large batch, fry in smaller portions to prevent steaming instead of frying.
• Season gradually: Start with less soy sauce and add more as needed; this prevents over-salting and allows for better flavor control.
• Keep stirring: Continuously stir the rice while cooking to avoid sticking and promote even cooking throughout.

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Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice

Fried rice pairs well with many side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies or shrimp, perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.
2. Miso Soup: A warm, savory soup that adds depth to your meal while balancing flavors.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted steamed edamame provides a healthy snack option rich in protein.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers and sesame dressing enhances the overall dining experience.
5. Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory grilled chicken that makes an excellent pairing with fried rice’s bold flavors.
6. Tempura Vegetables: Crispy battered vegetables offer an enjoyable crunch alongside your fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried rice might seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using hot rice: Freshly cooked rice is moist and can clump together when frying. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the pan‘s temperature. Cook in batches for even frying and better flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: A bland fried rice can be disappointing. Make sure to taste and adjust with soy sauce or other seasonings as you cook.
• Skipping the oil: Oil helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor. Use enough oil when frying to coat the rice and veggies well.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Having everything prepped beforehand makes cooking faster and easier. Chop vegetables and organize your ingredients before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Fried Rice

• Freeze fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It will keep well for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fried rice and stir until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make fried rice with brown rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be used for fried rice, but it may require longer cooking times and won’t be as fluffy as white rice.

What is the best type of soy sauce for fried rice?

Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal as it allows you to control the saltiness of your dish without overpowering its flavors.

How do I customize my fried rice?

You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, or include different vegetables based on your preference for variety.

Is this fried rice recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This hibachi-inspired fried rice is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be reheated easily throughout the week.

What dishes pair well with this fried rice?

Fried rice is a versatile side that complements dishes like stir-fried vegetables, grilled meats, or even soups.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any meal. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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