Fried Rice

This Fried Rice recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this hibachi-inspired meal is quick to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of cooked rice, fresh veggies, and savory seasonings creates a satisfying dish that stands out for its simplicity and versatility.

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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
• As a Side Dish
• In a Wrap
• As Part of a Bento Box
• 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 use different types of rice for Fried Rice?
• What veggies can I add to my Fried Rice?
• Is Fried Rice easy to make at home?
• How do I make my Fried Rice more flavorful?
• Can I make this Fried Rice vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This fried rice comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: With the richness of butter and the umami from soy sauce, each bite bursts with delicious flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your fried rice with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand for endless variations.
• Perfect Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love fried rice! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping meals fun.

Tools and Preparation

To make this fried rice effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. A good skillet or wok can make all the difference in achieving that perfect texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet or Wok: Provides ample space for cooking ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Essential for scrambling eggs and mixing ingredients thoroughly without breaking them too much.

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. 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 fine 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. Add the carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and place on the same plate as the egg.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add another splash of oil to the skillet; then 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 cooked rice while tossing to coat evenly. Cook until there are no visible white grains left.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return veggies and scrambled egg 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

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, there are plenty of delicious options to elevate your meal.

As a Main Course

• Protein Addition: Top your fried rice with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein and flavor.
• Egg Variation: Serve with a fried egg on top for extra richness and texture.

As a Side Dish

• With Stir-Fry: Pair your fried rice with a vibrant vegetable stir-fry for a balanced meal.
• Alongside Grilled Meats: It complements grilled steaks or chicken beautifully, adding a tasty carb element to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Rice Wraps: Use the fried rice as a filling in lettuce wraps or tortilla wraps for a fun twist.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Bento Lunches: Include fried rice in bento boxes alongside pickled vegetables and fruit for an appealing lunch option.

How to Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve the perfect fried rice, follow these helpful tips that ensure great flavor and texture.

• Use Cold Rice: Always start with cold, day-old rice. This prevents clumping and ensures even frying.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook over high heat to achieve that signature crispy texture without steaming the rice.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking. This streamlines the process and enhances flavors.
• Season Gradually: Add soy sauce gradually while tasting. This helps you control the saltiness of your dish.
• Keep Stirring: Continuously stir the rice and veggies to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

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Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice

Fried rice pairs beautifully with various side dishes, enhancing its flavors and creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or meat add crunch and flavor contrast.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides umami richness that complements the fried rice perfectly.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers protein and is easy to prepare as an appetizer.
4. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a refreshing contrast to hot fried rice.
5. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame oil adds brightness to your meal.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies boost nutrition while adding smoky flavors alongside your fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried rice can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to chop and measure ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Prepare all ingredients in advance for a smoother cooking process.
• Overcrowding the skillet: If you add too much rice or vegetables at once, they won’t fry properly. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect fried rice texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can result in bland fried rice. Always taste as you go and add soy sauce or salt accordingly.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking on too low heat won’t give you that desired fry. Ensure your skillet is hot enough to sauté ingredients quickly without burning them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Fried rice keeps well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove excess air from bags before sealing.

Reheating Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fried rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fried rice and stir frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making fried rice:

Can I use different types of rice for Fried Rice?

Yes, while short-grain white rice is preferred, long-grain or jasmine rice works well too. Just ensure it’s cold before frying.

What veggies can I add to my Fried Rice?

You can customize your fried rice with various vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn. Frozen peas and carrots are convenient options.

Is Fried Rice easy to make at home?

Absolutely! This Fried Rice recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish.

How do I make my Fried Rice more flavorful?

Enhance flavor by adding garlic, ginger, or sesame oil during cooking. Adjust soy sauce levels according to your taste preference.

Can I make this Fried Rice vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the egg and use vegetable oil instead of butter to create a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice is not only packed with flavors but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it a fantastic meal option any night of the week. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!

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