Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice is the perfect dish to bring a taste of Japan to your kitchen! With perfectly cooked rice, vibrant vegetables, and mouthwatering flavors, this fried rice recipe captures the essence of a classic hibachi meal. It’s loaded with umami and just a touch of soy sauce, delivering a delightful experience with every bite. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility—it’s a fantastic way to turn leftover rice into a new favorite dish!
Why You’ll Love This Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice
This easy-to-make recipe doesn’t just taste amazing; it also checks all the right boxes for busy weeknight dinners and meal prep. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
- Perfect for Beginners: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great dish for novice cooks.
- Family-Friendly: Packed with veggies and flavorful rice, it’s a dish both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Customizable: Tailor this fried rice to your taste with various proteins and vegetables.
- Budget-Friendly: Using a few staple ingredients keeps this meal wallet-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice is both fun and straightforward because it relies on common ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- Rice: Day-old rice works best as it’s dryer and prevents mushiness. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice and cool it in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- Soy Sauce: This adds the signature umami flavor. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, or tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap the mixed vegetables for any of your favorites, such as bell peppers or broccoli. Fresh or frozen both work well!
How to Make Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice Step-By-Step
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a perfect hibachi fried rice.
- Heat the Oil:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This allows for faster cooking and helps prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding other ingredients to achieve that fabulous stir-fry finish! - Scramble the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: You can add a pinch of salt to the eggs while scrambling for extra flavor. - Add Vegetables:
Stir in the mixed vegetables and green onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Pro Tip: If you want extra texture, allow the edges of the vegetables to char slightly. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix everything together. Break up any clumps of rice for an even fry.
Pro Tip: Use a spatula to lift and fold the rice rather than stirring, ensuring even cooking. - Add Seasonings:
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything until well combined and heated through.
Pro Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning! If you want more flavor, add a bit more soy sauce or sesame oil.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice by pairing it thoughtfully! Here are some ideas:
Perfect Pairings
- Drinks: Serve with a refreshing iced tea or a light beer.
- Side Dishes: Pair with hibachi grilled chicken or shrimp, or maybe some refreshing cucumber salad.
Occasions
- Weeknight Dinner: Quick and filling, perfect for busy evenings.
- Holiday Party: Impress guests by serving it alongside other Asian-inspired appetizers.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in a bowl and garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds for added visual appeal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Make the most of your leftovers with these storage and reheating techniques:
Refrigerator
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Container: Glass or plastic containers work well to lock in moisture.
Freezer
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Packaging: Use freezer-safe bags and squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
- Best Method: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or soy sauce to add moisture.
Tips for Success
- Do Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to clump; day-old rice is the best for frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, work in batches to keep the heat consistent.
- Do Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add different vegetables to suit your taste!
- Don’t Skip the Scrambling Step: Fully cooked eggs add great texture and flavor.
- Do Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go to find the flavor balance you enjoy.
Recipe Variations
Take your Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice to the next level with these fun variations:
- Make it Spicy: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Make it Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein and heartiness.
- Make it Teriyaki Style: Incorporate teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
A: Yes, you can use fresh rice but ensure you cool it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm it up before cooking.
Q: What if my fried rice is too salty?
A: If your fried rice turns out too salty, try mixing in additional cooked rice or add some diced cucumbers to balance the flavor.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Q: How can I make this dish less oily?
A: Use a bit less oil or opt for a non-stick skillet to reduce the amount of oil needed for cooking.
Q: Can I prepare this meal in advance?
A: Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time and then cook everything just before serving for a freshly made taste.
Â
Hibachi Inspired Fried Rice
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old) Day-old rice works best as it’s dryer.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For frying.
- 2 large eggs Scrambled until fully cooked.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn) Fresh or frozen vegetables both work well.
- 3 pieces green onions, chopped For flavor and garnish.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce For umami flavor. Low-sodium option available.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Adds a nutty aroma.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
InstructionsÂ
Preparation
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and green onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything until well combined and heated through.