Fried Rice
This Fried Rice recipe brings the vibrant flavors of hibachi cuisine right to your kitchen! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delicious, customizable dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Using pantry staples and fresh vegetables, this recipe is not only budget-friendly but also family-approved. Whether served as a main course or side dish, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love. Add your choice of proteins like chicken or shrimp for an extra satisfying experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Customizable: You can easily tailor this fried rice to include your favorite vegetables and proteins.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing pantry staples means you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of butter and soy sauce gives this dish a rich, savory taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Fried Rice, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: A spacious surface allows for even cooking and better heat distribution.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the egg thoroughly, ensuring it’s fluffy when scrambled.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 1 egg, whisked
- 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
- Oils (peanut, canola, or vegetable)
- Optional: sesame oil
How to Make Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Prepare the rice by cooking it according to package instructions and chilling in the refrigerator. Using cold, day-old rice is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Soy Sauce
Soften the butter in a small bowl and mix it with low-sodium soy sauce until well combined.
Step 3: Scramble the Egg
In a large skillet or wok over medium heat:
1. Pour in the whisked egg.
2. Cook until it forms soft curds, then set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Add a bit of oil to the skillet:
1. Sauté chopped carrots, peas, and onion until they are tender.
2. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Fry the Rice
In the same skillet:
1. Pour in more oil if needed.
2. Add chilled rice.
3. Fry until warmed through and lightly browned.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Toss the fried rice with the butter-soy mixture until evenly coated.
Step 7: Final Touches
Return sautéed vegetables and scrambled egg back into the skillet:
1. Stir everything well.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Fried Rice!
How to Serve Fried Rice
Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate your meal and cater to different tastes.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it hot straight from the skillet for a comforting main course.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and flavor.
With Fresh Herbs
- Top your fried rice with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh taste.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavors and add brightness.
Accompanied by Sauces
- Provide soy sauce or sriracha on the side for those who enjoy extra seasoning.
- Consider offering teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves
- Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fun, low-carb option.
- Add diced proteins and veggies for a crunchy, satisfying bite.
On a Platter
- Create a vibrant platter with fried rice in the center surrounded by colorful veggies.
- This presentation is perfect for gatherings or family meals.
How to Perfect Fried Rice
To achieve restaurant-quality Fried Rice, follow these essential tips.
- Use cold rice: Day-old rice works best as it has less moisture, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Heat your pan well: A hot skillet or wok ensures that the rice fries properly, creating that desired texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to allow even frying and prevent steaming.
- Add ingredients gradually: Introduce vegetables and proteins one at a time to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Season at the end: Adjust soy sauce or other seasonings after all ingredients are combined for better control over flavor intensity.
- Experiment with oils: Try different oils like sesame oil for extra depth of flavor in your fried rice.
Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice
Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Egg Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or meat offer a delightful crunch alongside fried rice.
- Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, spring rolls provide a contrast in texture while adding freshness.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is soothing and balances out the richness of fried rice.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your meal, enhancing the overall experience.
- Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and zest.
- Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings offer another layer of flavor that pairs excellently with fried rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Fried Rice is a simple dish, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin its flavor and texture. Avoid these mistakes for the best results!
- Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when fried. Always use cold, day-old rice for optimal texture.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Sautéing vegetables too long can lead to a loss of crunch. Cook until just tender to maintain their freshness.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping or rushing seasoning can dull flavors. Adjust soy sauce and other seasonings gradually for balance.
- Crowding the Skillet: Overloading your skillet can steam the rice instead of frying it. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve the right texture.
- Skipping the Eggs: Omitting eggs removes an essential flavor element. Scramble them in before mixing for added richness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store fried rice in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Fried Rice
- Place cooled fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), spread rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer rice to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and stir-fry the rice until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Fried Rice that may help you perfect your dish.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Fried Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just ensure it’s cooked and chilled properly before frying.
What proteins can I add to my Fried Rice?
You can customize your fried rice with chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu for added protein and flavor.
How do I prevent my Fried Rice from becoming sticky?
Use cold, day-old rice to avoid stickiness. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together due to moisture.
Can Fried Rice be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and add extra vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
Is Fried Rice good for meal prep?
Yes! Fried Rice stores well and makes a great meal prep option as it reheats easily while maintaining flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Rice recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can tailor it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it suitable for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table!
Fried Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of hibachi cuisine to your home in just 35 minutes. This easy fried rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, allowing you to customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables. Using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this budget-friendly meal is sure to please the whole family. Serve it as a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish, and let everyone enjoy the comforting taste of homemade fried rice.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 1 egg, whisked
- 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
- Oils (peanut, canola, or vegetable)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice by cooking according to package instructions and chilling in the refrigerator.
- Mix softened butter with low-sodium soy sauce in a small bowl until combined.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, scramble the whisked egg until soft curds form; set aside.
- Sauté chopped carrots, peas, and onion in oil until tender; remove from skillet.
- Fry chilled rice in the same skillet until warmed through and lightly browned.
- Combine fried rice with the butter-soy mixture until evenly coated.
- Stir in sautéed vegetables and scrambled egg; serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hibachi
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
