Fried Rice Recipe
This Fried Rice Recipe brings the delicious flavors of hibachi-style cooking right into your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this quick and easy dish can be ready in under 35 minutes. With just a few staple ingredients—rice, fresh vegetables, and soy sauce—you’ll create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Customize it with your choice of protein or extra veggies for a unique twist each time you make it. Whether it’s a main dish topped with grilled chicken or a delightful side to complement your favorite Asian dishes, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in under 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful: The combination of butter and soy sauce creates a rich taste that elevates simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Customize with your choice of protein or veggies, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavors.
- Family-Friendly: A meal that appeals to all ages; kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite.
- Great Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect fried rice, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and proper sautéing of vegetables.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula is essential for stirring without breaking up the rice too much.
- Whisk: Use a whisk to easily scramble the egg before adding it to the rice.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this fried rice recipe.
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice
For the Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
For Flavoring
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
For Cooking
- 1 egg, whisked
- Oil for frying
How to Make Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Cook rice per package instructions and chill for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as cold rice produces better texture when frying.
Step 2: Soften Butter
Mix softened butter with soy sauce in a small bowl until combined. This mixture will add flavor when drizzled over the rice.
Step 3: Cook Egg
In a skillet over medium heat, scramble the whisked egg until fully cooked. Set aside on a plate once done.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies
In the same skillet, stir-fry carrots, peas, and onions until tender. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Fry Rice
Heat oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add cold rice and cook until warmed through and slightly crispy on the bottom, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Season Rice
Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the fried rice. Toss everything together well so every grain is coated with flavor.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Stir in cooked veggies and scrambled egg into the rice mixture. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
Enjoy your homemade Fried Rice Recipe!
How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe
Serving your Fried Rice Recipe can enhance the dining experience and allow for creativity. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will make your dish even more enjoyable.
As a Main Dish
- Grilled Chicken: Top your fried rice with juicy grilled chicken slices for a protein-packed meal.
- Shrimp Stir-Fry: Add stir-fried shrimp on top for a seafood twist that pairs well with the flavors of the rice.
As a Side Dish
- Teriyaki Chicken: Serve alongside teriyaki chicken to bring out the Asian flavors in both dishes.
- Egg Rolls: Pair with crispy egg rolls for a delightful appetizer or side that complements the fried rice well.
Garnishing Options
- Sesame Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of sesame oil adds richness and depth of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Spice It Up
- Chili Sauce: Offer chili sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal.
- Soy Sauce: Provide extra soy sauce for those who like to customize their flavor profile.
How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe
Perfecting your Fried Rice Recipe is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Day-Old Rice: Using chilled, day-old rice helps prevent clumping and gives you that ideal texture.
- High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat to achieve that slightly crispy texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Add Ingredients in Stages: Start with vegetables first, followed by rice, then proteins; this ensures everything heats through properly.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust soy sauce or seasoning gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe
Complementing your Fried Rice Recipe with the right side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some excellent options.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a comforting element and balances the meal nicely.
- Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls serve as an enjoyable appetizer that pairs well with fried rice.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of seasonal stir-fried vegetables offers nutrition and color on the plate.
- Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings provide a satisfying texture contrast alongside fried rice.
- Asian Salad: A refreshing Asian-style salad adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Spicy Edamame: These protein-rich snacks are flavorful, easy to prepare, and make for an excellent side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing a Fried Rice Recipe, which can affect the final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice is often too moist and sticky. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best results.
- Overcooking vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender for a better crunch.
- Skipping the oil: Not using enough oil can lead to sticking. Ensure you have enough oil in the pan to keep the rice and veggies moving.
- Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season your fried rice can leave it bland. Taste and adjust with soy sauce or spices as needed.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the cooking temperature. Fry in batches if necessary to achieve that crispy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Fried Rice Recipe
- Place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Fried Rice Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread rice on a baking sheet, and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, and cover. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a little oil to a skillet, then reheat over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this Fried Rice Recipe that may help you along the way.
Can I use brown rice for this Fried Rice Recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice; just be aware it will change the texture slightly since brown rice takes longer to cook.
What protein can I add to my Fried Rice Recipe?
You can add chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef based on your preference. Just cook them separately before mixing them into the fried rice.
How do I prevent my Fried Rice from being soggy?
Always use cold, day-old rice instead of freshly cooked rice to avoid sogginess.
Can I make this Fried Rice Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and consider adding more vegetables or tofu for protein.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Rice Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables for endless variations. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Fried Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of hibachi cooking right into your home. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this quick dish can be ready in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 whisked egg
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to package instructions and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Mix softened butter with soy sauce in a bowl until combined.
- In a skillet over medium heat, scramble the egg until fully cooked; set aside.
- Stir-fry carrots, peas, and onion in the same skillet until tender (3-5 minutes).
- Heat oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add cold rice and cook until warmed through and slightly crispy.
- Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice, tossing well to coat.
- Stir in the cooked veggies and scrambled egg; adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
