This Easy Hibachi Fried Rice is a quick and tasty dish that anyone can make! With colorful veggies and fluffy rice, it brings all the hibachi flavors right to your kitchen.
It’s like having a mini party on your plate! You can toss in your favorite veggies, and don’t forget the soy sauce for that yum factor. I love making it on busy nights—so fast and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice. It’s drier and helps achieve a nice texture. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and cool it in the fridge for a bit to dry it out.
Eggs: Eggs add richness and protein to the dish. If you want to make this vegan, you can use tofu scramble instead to mimic the texture. Just season it well!
Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is great for high heat. If you want a more flavorful twist, try sesame oil. It gives a soothing nutty flavor but use it in moderation as it’s strong.
Soy Sauce: It’s essential for flavor! If you’re avoiding soy, use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Just check the quantity as these options can vary in saltiness.
How Do I Get the Rice Crispy Without Burning It?
A common challenge with fried rice is getting that crispy texture without burning the grains. Here are some tips:
- Use chilled, dry rice. The moisture in warm rice can lead to sticking and soggy rice.
- Heat the skillet before adding oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- When adding rice, press it down gently for even cooking, then let it sit undisturbed for a minute. This forms a slight crust. After that, stir gently.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a big batch, consider frying in smaller portions to maintain high heat.
Easy Hibachi Fried Rice Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation and about 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, expect to spend around 20-25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick meal, perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
To start, make sure to use chilled rice, ideally cooked the day before. This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy when you fry it. If you don’t have day-old rice, you can cool freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet.
2. Scramble the Eggs:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and then pour them into the hot skillet. Scramble until fully cooked (about 1-2 minutes). Once done, remove the eggs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the diced yellow onion and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Add Garlic (Optional):
If you’re using minced garlic, add it to the skillet now. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Mix in the Rice:
Now, add the chilled rice to the skillet. Stir it well to combine with the onions. Press down the rice gently and let it cook without stirring for about 1 minute to create a little crispiness. After that, give it a stir.
6. Add Seasoning:
Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the rice and stir well to coat all the grains. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine with Eggs and Green Onions:
Stir in the scrambled eggs and the green parts of the green onions. Mix everything thoroughly and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
8. Serve:
Remove the rice from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade hibachi-style fried rice!
This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for beginners and makes for a quick meal any day of the week. Happy cooking!
FAQ – Easy Hibachi Fried Rice Recipe
Can I Use Any Type of Rice?
While this recipe works best with white rice, you can substitute brown rice for a healthier option. Just note that brown rice will take a bit longer to cook and may require more seasoning for flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the eggs or replace them with tofu scramble for a vegan alternative. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftover hibachi fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
What If My Rice Is Too Sticky?
If your rice is sticky, it’s likely due to moisture. To avoid this, use day-old rice that’s been chilled in the refrigerator. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool before using it for fried rice.
