Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice; 1 egg, whisked/scrambled; 1/2 cup chopped carrots; 1/2 cup peas; 1/2 cup white onion, chopped; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2–3 tablespoons peanut oil (or canola/vegetable oil); 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)

Published: April 23, 2025

by Jessica

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This Fried Rice Recipe is not only quick and easy to make, but it also bursts with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for gatherings, this hibachi-inspired fried rice is a versatile meal. With its combination of tender veggies, scrambled eggs, and savory soy sauce, it stands out as a delicious favorite for all ages.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This fried rice comes together in just about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of butter and soy sauce enhances the rice, giving it a rich flavor that pairs well with various proteins.
Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Leftover Friendly: This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, reducing food waste while creating a tasty meal.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the mild flavors and colorful veggies in this fried rice, making it an easy way to incorporate more nutrients into their diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Spatula
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or wok: This allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding them.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps in breaking up the egg and tossing the rice without sticking.
Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for prepped ingredients keeps everything organized and accessible.

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

How to Make Fried Rice Recipe

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 okay 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 until broken 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 carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the veggies are 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 to the skillet along with cold cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds to warm through and lightly brown for about 4-5 minutes while adjusting heat as needed.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy sauce mixture over warm rice while tossing gently to coat evenly until no white grains remain visible.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked veggies and scrambled egg back into your skillet. Drizzle with sesame oil if using; stir until everything is well combined. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary with more soy sauce. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive side for guests, here are some great serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
Add tofu for a vegetarian option that still packs protein.

With Sauces

Drizzle with spicy sriracha or sweet chili sauce to enhance the flavors.
Serve alongside soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for those who enjoy extra seasoning.

In Bowls

Create a rice bowl topped with sliced avocado and sesame seeds.
Add a fried egg on top for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Garnished

Sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh finish.
Top with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe

Making the perfect fried rice takes some practice, but with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish each time.

Use cold rice: Cold rice prevents clumping and ensures even frying. Freshly cooked rice is too moist.
Prep ingredients ahead: Have all your vegetables and sauces ready before cooking. This makes the process smoother.
Choose the right pan: A wok is ideal due to its high sides and ability to distribute heat evenly. If using a skillet, ensure it’s large enough.
Keep it moving: Continuously stir-fry the ingredients to prevent burning and sticking. This helps achieve that perfect texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary. This allows for better browning and flavor development.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Miso Soup: A light soup made with miso paste, tofu, and seaweed, balancing the richness of fried rice.
Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp offer a delightful crunch as a side.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies add color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing flavors.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a healthy, protein-packed addition that’s easy to prepare.
Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory teriyaki chicken complements the umami notes in fried rice perfectly.
Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a nice contrast in texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fried rice can seem easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best fried rice recipe results.

Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can clump together. Always use cold, leftover rice for the best texture.
Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long makes them mushy. Sauté them just until tender to retain their crunch and flavor.
Neglecting seasoning: Skipping on soy sauce or seasoning leads to bland fried rice. Use low-sodium soy sauce and taste as you go to adjust flavors.
Not using enough oil: A lack of oil can cause sticking and burning. Ensure you use enough oil when frying to keep the ingredients moving.
Cooking at low heat: Low heat won’t give you that desirable fried rice texture. Use medium-high heat for proper browning and crispness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the fried rice to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Fried Rice Recipe

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Portion out servings for easier reheating later.

Reheating Fried Rice Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, then cover. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Add a little oil or water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir-fry the rice until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this fried rice recipe.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, brown rice works well but may require a longer cooking time due to its denser texture.

How do I customize my fried rice?

You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for more flavor.

Is this fried rice recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check all other ingredients for gluten content.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Short-grain white rice is ideal; however, long-grain or jasmine rice can also be used effectively.

Can I make this fried rice vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat and increase the amount of vegetables or add tofu for protein.

Final Thoughts

This fried rice recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it perfect as a main dish or side. Try this easy hibachi-inspired recipe today and elevate your home cooking!

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