Fried Rice

This Fried Rice recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish that’s perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your dinner table, this hibachi-inspired fried rice is quick and easy to whip up. With its savory flavors from soy sauce and butter, alongside colorful veggies, this dish brings both taste and nutrition to your meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This fried rice comes together in under 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, butter, and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, you can easily customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables.
• Use Leftover Rice: It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice from previous meals, reducing waste while saving time.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious fried rice, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: This allows for even cooking and enough space to stir-fry all ingredients without crowding.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps break up clumps of rice and ensures even mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

For 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) 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 before mixing in the soy sauce; it’s okay if they don’t combine completely.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in your large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the whisked egg and scramble it with a spatula until it’s broken into small chunks. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil to your skillet. Toss in the carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper before removing them from the skillet onto the same plate as the egg.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add another splash of oil into the skillet before adding your cold cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds for about 4-5 minutes until warmed through and lightly browned. Adjust heat as needed.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice while tossing everything together until evenly coated. Cook until no visible white grains remain.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return both veggies and scrambled egg back into your skillet. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired. Stir well until everything is combined nicely. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if needed before serving immediately.

How to Serve Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side, it pairs well with many flavors and ingredients.

As a Main Dish

• Protein Additions: Top your fried rice with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. This not only enhances the meal but makes it more filling.
• Egg Topping: Garnish with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor to each bite of the fried rice.

As a Side Dish

• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve alongside stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• As a Base for Sauces: Use fried rice as a base for spicy sauces or gravies. This transforms the dish into a flavorful experience.

In a Bowl

• Rice Bowls: Create a bowl by adding fresh greens like spinach or lettuce. Top it off with your favorite protein and drizzle with extra soy sauce or sesame oil.

How to Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your fried rice, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Preparation: Always use cold, day-old rice for frying. Freshly cooked rice will turn mushy during cooking.
• Bold Flavoring: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. You can adjust the seasoning according to taste as you cook.
• Bold Cooking Method: Cook on high heat in a wok or large skillet. This ensures quick cooking without steaming the rice.
• Bold Stirring Technique: Continuously stir and toss the ingredients while cooking. This prevents burning and sticking to the pan.
• Bold Ingredient Prep: Have all ingredients prepped before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.

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Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice

Fried rice pairs beautifully with many side dishes that complement its flavors and textures.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch and are great for dipping.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to fried rice’s texture.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is an excellent source of protein and serves as a healthy snack alongside your meal.
4. Pork Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with pork offer rich flavors that pair well with fried rice.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers bring out natural sweetness and enhance your plate.
6. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame vinaigrette balances the heartiness of fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fried rice is a simple dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Avoid these mistakes for the best outcome.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together. Always use cold, leftover rice for optimal frying.
• Overcooking the veggies: Sautéing veggies for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender to maintain their texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned fried rice can be bland. Make sure to taste and adjust the soy sauce and seasoning as you cook.
• Cooking at low heat: Low heat can lead to soggy rice. Keep the heat medium-high to ensure proper frying and browning.
• Skipping the oil: Without enough oil, ingredients will stick to the pan. Use sufficient oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Fried rice can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Fried Rice

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

Reheating Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fried rice and stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of rice for fried rice?

You can use short-grain, long-grain, or jasmine rice. However, make sure it’s cold before frying for the best texture.

How do I make my fried rice taste better?

Adding fresh ingredients like green onions or garlic can enhance flavor. Adjusting soy sauce levels also improves taste.

What vegetables work well in fried rice?

Carrots, peas, bell peppers, or even broccoli are great additions. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!

How do I prevent my fried rice from sticking?

Ensure you use enough oil when cooking and keep stirring continuously during frying.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful meal that’s perfect as a main dish or side!

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