Fried Rice Recipe

This Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of hibachi right to your kitchen. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions—from a weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. With its perfect blend of rice, vegetables, and savory sauces, this fried rice will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Rice Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this dish in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of butter, soy sauce, and fresh veggies creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the fried rice by adding proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover rice to create this delicious meal, reducing waste while saving time.
• Quick Cooking Time: From prep to plate, you can enjoy this meal in about 35 minutes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making this fried rice. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for evenly cooking the rice and veggies while providing enough space to stir-fry effectively.
• Spatula: Helps in breaking apart the egg and mixing all ingredients thoroughly without damaging them.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the butter and soy sauce before adding it to the rice.

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 Veggies

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

For Cooking

• 1 egg, whisked/scrambled
• 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 Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Begin by cooking your rice according to package instructions. After it’s cooked, chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour or overnight. This step is crucial as cold rice fries better than warm rice.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter on your counter until softened. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals until soft. Once soft, mash it with a fork and mix in 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce. It’s okay if they don’t fully combine.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in your large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the whisked egg and scramble it using a spatula until it’s broken into small chunks. Once cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil to your skillet. Toss in chopped carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté these for about 4 minutes until they are tender and warmed through. Season lightly with salt and pepper before removing them from heat.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Pour another splash of oil into your skillet and add in your cold cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds to warm through while allowing it to lightly brown over about 4-5 minutes. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy sauce mixture over the warmed rice while tossing gently to coat evenly. Continue cooking until there are no visible white grains left in the mixture.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return your sautéed veggies and scrambled egg back into the skillet with the fried rice. If desired, drizzle with sesame oil before stirring everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving immediately.

How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to serve it as a main course or a side, there are plenty of delicious options to consider.

As a Main Dish

• Top with Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top for a heartier meal.
• Pair with Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.

As a Side Dish

• With Asian Cuisine: Fried rice complements dishes like teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour pork beautifully.
• Alongside Grilled Meats: It works well with grilled steaks or kebabs, adding flavor and texture.

In a Bowl

• Fried Rice Bowl: Create a bowl by adding avocado slices and a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
• Customize Your Bowl: Mix in your favorite toppings like sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe

Achieving the perfect fried rice requires some attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Cold Rice: Always start with cold, day-old rice for the best texture. This prevents clumping during frying.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. This ensures quick cooking and avoids burning.
• Control the Heat: Use high heat when frying to achieve that signature wok-charred flavor. Adjust as necessary to prevent burning.
• Keep Stirring: Continuously stir the rice while cooking to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
• Season Gradually: Start with less soy sauce and adjust as needed to avoid oversalting your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies or meat make for a delightful appetizer.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting start to your meal.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: These sweet and savory skewers pair perfectly with fried rice.
5. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides healthy protein bites.
6. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables complement fried rice well.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add a zesty contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.
8. Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned tofu bites add protein and texture, perfect for vegetarians or vegans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a fried rice recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Using hot rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together. Always use cold rice for the best texture.
• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to chop veggies before cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Prepare all ingredients in advance for smooth cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much rice or vegetables at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the oil: Not using enough oil can result in sticking and burning. Use a generous amount of oil to keep everything moving.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your fried rice bland. Taste as you go and adjust with soy sauce or salt as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and spread the rice on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the rice, and stir until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of rice for this Fried Rice Recipe?

Short-grain white rice is recommended for its sticky texture, but long-grain or jasmine rice also works well.

Can I customize my Fried Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, as well as different vegetables based on your preferences.

How do I prevent my fried rice from getting soggy?

Always use cold, day-old rice that has been chilled properly. This prevents excess moisture during cooking.

What are some variations of this Fried Rice Recipe?

You can try adding different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin or incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for variety.

Final Thoughts

This fried rice recipe is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients and serve it as a main dish or side. Try it out and enjoy its rich flavors!