Hibachi Fried Rice: A Quick and Delicious Homemade Favorite

Hibachi fried rice is a classic Japanese-inspired dish that’s flavorful, savory, and quick to make. Whether you’re craving a comforting side or a complete meal, this recipe brings the iconic hibachi grill experience right to your kitchen. The secret to making perfect hibachi fried rice lies in using cold, leftover rice, which ensures the grains don’t stick together and get that perfect, lightly fried texture. Paired with the rich flavor of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of butter, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. You can enjoy it as an accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a stand-alone meal.

What makes this hibachi fried rice truly irresistible is its versatility. The combination of eggs, onions, and green onions adds depth and texture, while the buttery, savory sauce brings it all together. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a quick, satisfying dinner. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful and satisfying dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of a Japanese steakhouse.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy

This hibachi fried rice can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or a last-minute meal.

2. Flavorful & Savory

With the combination of soy sauce, butter, and garlic, every bite of this fried rice is packed with delicious umami flavor.

this …

3. Perfect Use of Leftover Rice

The best part of this recipe is that it uses leftover rice, which prevents food waste and ensures the rice has the perfect texture for frying.

4. Customizable

While this recipe is simple, it’s also easy to customize with your favorite additions, like vegetables, shrimp, or chicken, for a more filling dish.

5. Restaurant-Style Taste at Home

This recipe brings the taste of hibachi grilled rice right to your kitchen, so you can enjoy the flavors of your favorite hibachi restaurant at home anytime.

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil
• Large eggs, well beaten
• Salted butter
• Small diced sweet onion
• Garlic, minced
• Leftover long-grain white rice, cooked and cooled
• Soy sauce
• Green onions (green part only), thinly sliced

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding diced chicken, shrimp, or beef to the rice as it fries. You can even toss in some tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add peas, carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and add a colorful touch to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy variation, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Brown Rice: Use cooked and cooled brown rice for a healthier, more fiber-packed alternative to white rice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

If you don’t have leftover rice, cook the rice ahead of time and allow it to cool completely before using. Cold rice works best for fried rice, as it doesn’t clump together.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Once done, remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add the cold, cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, making sure each grain is coated with oil and heated through.

Step 5: Add Soy Sauce

Drizzle the soy sauce over the rice, stirring to evenly distribute the sauce throughout. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavor.

Step 6: Combine with Eggs

Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet, mixing them into the rice. Stir in the sliced green onions, reserving a small amount for garnish.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the hibachi fried rice immediately, garnished with the remaining green onions. Enjoy as a side dish or main course!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Cold Rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when frying. Always use rice that’s been cooled, preferably leftover rice, to get that ideal fried rice texture.
• High Heat: Cooking on high heat is key to getting the perfect fried rice with that crispy, slightly charred flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, fry the rice in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that each grain of rice gets fried evenly.
• Adjust the Soy Sauce: You can adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste preference, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the rice too salty.

How to Serve

Hibachi fried rice is incredibly versatile and can be served as a side or main dish. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:

• As a side dish with grilled meats, like steak, chicken, or shrimp.
• With hibachi-style vegetables, such as grilled zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
• As a standalone meal, served with additional protein like chicken or shrimp.
• In a rice bowl with additional toppings such as avocado, grilled meats, or fried egg.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover hibachi fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Freezing

Fried rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water to help steam it.

Reheating

Reheat the rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works great as a healthier alternative. Just make sure it’s cooled before frying.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen peas and carrots can be added to the fried rice. Just make sure to thaw them first before adding to the pan.

3. What other sauces can I use besides soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free version, or try coconut aminos for a sweeter, soy-free option.

4. Can I make hibachi fried rice with shrimp or chicken?

Yes, simply cook the shrimp or chicken separately and mix them into the rice during the last step.

5. Can I use non-stick cookware for frying rice?

Yes, but make sure your pan is hot enough to prevent sticking. A wok is ideal for fried rice as it provides high, even heat.

6. What is the best rice to use for fried rice?

Long-grain white rice works best because it is less sticky and allows for better frying. If using brown rice, be sure to cool it before cooking.

7. Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can make the fried rice without eggs if you prefer, or substitute with tofu for a vegan version.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also toss in finely chopped jalapeños or chili peppers.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, carrots, and peas all make great additions to the fried rice. Add them when sautéing the onions and garlic.

10. How do I keep the rice from getting too soggy?

Be sure to use cooled, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice will be too soft and sticky, so the grains won’t fry properly.

Conclusion

Hibachi fried rice is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. It’s simple to make, customizable, and sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe brings a taste of the hibachi grill to your home kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish anytime you like.

Print