Fried Rice Recipe

This Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress! It’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side, this hibachi-inspired fried rice brings a burst of flavor that makes it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, butter, and fresh veggies creates a savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Customize your fried rice by adding your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples means you won’t break the bank while preparing this delicious meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This fried rice reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: A spacious cooking surface ensures even heat distribution and helps to fry the rice without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Essential for stirring and breaking apart ingredients while cooking; a sturdy spatula works best for this recipe.

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 Egg

• 1 egg, whisked/scrambled

For the Vegetables

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

For Seasoning

• 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

Pin

How to Make Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once done, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight). Cold rice is key for achieving that perfect fried texture.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave the butter on the counter to soften. If you’re short on time, microwave it briefly until soft. Mash with a fork and mix in the soy sauce until combined.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in your skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the whisked egg and scramble it using your spatula to create small chunks. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add another splash of oil to the skillet. Sauté carrots, peas, and onion for about 4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper before removing them from the skillet.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add another splash of oil to your skillet. Toss in cold cooked rice every 30 seconds for about 4-5 minutes until heated through. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy mixture over the warm rice. Toss well to coat evenly until there are no visible white grains left.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked vegetables and scrambled egg back into the skillet. If using sesame oil, drizzle it over now. Stir until well combined 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 enjoyed in many ways. Whether served as a main course or a side, it pairs beautifully with a variety of foods.

As a Main Dish

• Topped with Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top for a hearty meal.
• With a Fried Egg: Serve with a sunny-side-up egg for added richness and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• With Asian Takeout: Pair fried rice with your favorite Chinese or Japanese dishes, such as teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour pork.
• At Barbecues: Serve alongside grilled meats and vegetables for an outdoor feast.

In a Wrap

• Fried Rice Burrito: Wrap the fried rice in a tortilla with lettuce, salsa, and your choice of protein for a fun twist.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce or Sriracha: Offer soy sauce or spicy Sriracha on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.

How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your fried rice, follow these key tips.

• Use Cold Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best as it has dried out slightly, preventing clumping during frying.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all your vegetables and proteins chopped and ready to go before you start cooking. This makes the process quick and efficient.
• Keep It Moving: Stir the ingredients continuously in the skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your fried rice before adding more soy sauce; this helps prevent over-salting.
• Experiment with Oils: Try different oils like sesame or avocado oil for unique flavors in your fried rice.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice pairs well with many sides that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls add crunch and freshness to your meal.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and balances the meal.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy snack that goes perfectly with fried rice.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Sweet and savory teriyaki chicken skewers enhance the Asian theme of your dinner.
5. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add color and flavor to your plate.
6. Kimchi Salad: A tangy kimchi salad brings spice and probiotics, making for a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your fried rice recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the Rice: Using freshly cooked rice can result in a mushy texture. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best results.
• Skipping the Chill: Not refrigerating the rice before frying can lead to clumps. Chill the rice for at least an hour or overnight.
• Neglecting the Oil: Using too little oil can cause sticking and burning. Ensure you use enough oil to coat the pan properly.
• Crowding the Pan: Overloading your skillet or wok can steam rather than fry the rice. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in bland fried rice. Taste and adjust with soy sauce as needed throughout cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store fried rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Fried Rice Recipe

• Freeze fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy thawing later.

Reheating Fried Rice Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fried rice and stir until heated evenly, about 5-7 minutes.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this fried rice recipe.

Can I use brown rice for this Fried Rice Recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice; however, adjust cooking times as brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid.

What vegetables work best in this Fried Rice Recipe?

You can use any vegetables you like! Bell peppers, broccoli, and corn are great options that add flavor and color.

How do I make this Fried Rice Recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the egg or replace it with scrambled tofu for a delicious plant-based alternative.

Can I customize my Fried Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken or shrimp or switch up the sauces for different flavors.

What’s the best way to serve this Fried Rice Recipe?

Serve it hot as a main dish or side dish alongside grilled meats or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this delightful recipe today!

---