Fried Rice

This Fried Rice recipe is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Made with simple ingredients like white rice, butter, and veggies, it can be customized for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together and how satisfying it is to enjoy a homemade hibachi experience right in your kitchen.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Fried Rice
• 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 Dish
• As a Side Dish
• In a Wrap
• For Breakfast
• 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
• What type of rice is best for Fried Rice?
• Can I customize my Fried Rice?
• Is Fried Rice healthy?
• How do I prevent my Fried Rice from being soggy?
• Can I make Fried Rice without soy sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes.
• Flavorful: The combination of butter and soy sauce creates a rich flavor profile that elevates the fried rice.
• Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it an economical choice for meals.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes amazing the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this fried rice recipe, having the right tools is essential. A few key items will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying the rice and ensures even cooking.
• Spatula: Ideal for tossing ingredients without breaking them apart too much.
• Mixing bowl: Great for preparing ingredients before cooking, keeping everything organized.

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)

PIN THIS!

How to Make Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions. After cooking, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight). This helps ensure it’s cold and firm enough for frying.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave the butter at room temperature until soft. If you’re short on time, microwave it in short intervals until softened. Use a fork to mash the butter and mix it with soy sauce; it’s okay if they don’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 until cooked through. Use a spatula to break it into small chunks. Once done, remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil to the skillet. Stir in carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper before removing from heat to join the egg on your plate.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Add another splash of oil to the skillet. Next, add the cold cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds to warm through while lightly browning it—cook for about 4-5 minutes while adjusting heat as needed.

Step 6: Season the Rice

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

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return the sautéed veggies and scrambled egg back into the skillet. If using sesame oil, drizzle it over now. Stir thoroughly until everything is combined well. Taste test; add more soy sauce if desired before serving immediately!

How to Serve Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many 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 Dish

• Protein Addition: Serve fried rice with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. These proteins pair well with the flavors in the rice.
• Vegetable Medley: Add extra veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini for more color and nutrition. This makes the dish more vibrant and satisfying.

As a Side Dish

• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair fried rice with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. The crunch of the veggies complements the soft texture of the rice.
• Alongside Grilled Meats: Fried rice makes an excellent side for grilled meats such as steak or chicken skewers, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

In a Wrap

• Rice Wraps: Use fried rice as a filling in lettuce wraps or tortillas. This makes for a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal.

For Breakfast

• Fried Rice Omelette: Top your fried rice with a fried egg or mix it into an omelette for a filling breakfast option. The rich egg adds creaminess to the dish.

How to Perfect Fried Rice

Making perfect fried rice requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here’s how you can achieve that restaurant-quality taste at home.

• Use Cold Rice: Always start with cold, day-old rice. This prevents clumping and allows for better frying.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat to give the rice a nice sear and complex flavor. It helps achieve that signature smokiness.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures quick cooking without burning anything.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making large batches, cook in smaller portions to maintain heat and achieve even cooking.
• Season Gradually: Start with low-sodium soy sauce and adjust to your taste, preventing an overly salty dish.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Incorporate fresh herbs like green onions right before serving for added freshness and flavor.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice

Fried rice pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables add crunch and freshness alongside fried rice.
2. Miso Soup: A light miso soup balances out the richness of fried rice, providing warmth and umami flavor.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt offer a protein-packed side that is easy to prepare.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Sweet and savory teriyaki chicken skewers enhance the flavors of fried rice, making it a complete meal.
5. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables provide texture contrast while being deliciously crispy.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil create a colorful addition full of flavor that pairs well with fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making fried rice, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together when frying. Always use cold rice that has been chilled in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
• Overcooking vegetables: Sautéing veggies for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender, about 4 minutes, to retain their crunch.
• Skipping oil: Not using enough oil can cause the rice to stick to the pan. Always add a splash of oil before cooking each component to ensure everything fries evenly.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoned fried rice can be bland. Taste as you go and adjust with soy sauce or salt to enhance flavor.
• Cooking on low heat: Cooking on low heat can prevent proper browning. Use medium-high heat and keep the ingredients moving for the best texture and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Fried Rice

• Freeze fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place fried rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high 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 5 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of rice is best for Fried Rice?

Short-grain white rice works best because it holds its shape when frying. Long-grain or jasmine rice are also suitable options.

Can I customize my Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, as well as other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.

Is Fried Rice healthy?

Fried rice can be healthy depending on your ingredients. Use plenty of veggies and lean proteins while controlling oil and soy sauce amounts for a balanced meal.

How do I prevent my Fried Rice from being soggy?

Always use cold, day-old rice and avoid adding too much liquid during cooking. This helps achieve that perfect texture.

Can I make Fried Rice without soy sauce?

Yes! You can use alternatives like coconut aminos or tamari if you need a soy-free option while still adding great flavor.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences by adding different proteins or veggies. It’s perfect as a main dish or side, making it an excellent choice for any meal!