This Easy Hibachi Fried Rice is a tasty and fun dish to make at home! It’s filled with colorful veggies and fluffy rice, just like you’d find at a hibachi restaurant.
I love how quick this recipe is—perfect for busy nights! Just toss everything in a pan, add some soy sauce, and you’re ready to eat in no time. Why not throw in some chicken or shrimp for extra flavor?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Rice: Day-old rice is best for fried rice because it’s drier and prevents mushiness. If you don’t have day-old, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool before using. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option!
Vegetable Oil or Sesame Oil: I love sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but regular vegetable oil works just fine. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a good substitute too!
Onion: Yellow onions add a sweet bite to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, try green onions instead. They can add a fresh touch, too!
Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match veggies! Frozen peas and carrots are super convenient. You can also use bell peppers, zucchini, or even leftover roasted vegetables.
How Do You Get the Best Texture with Fried Rice?
The key to crispy, delicious fried rice is to use day-old rice that’s been chilled. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clump together. If you can’t wait for rice to cool, spread it out and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Cook your eggs separately and scramble them in the pan before adding rice to keep them fluffy.
- Add rice once the onions are translucent; mixing them integrates flavors without overcooking.
- Fry the rice on medium-high heat, allowing it to slightly toast, which gives it a great texture.
Easy Hibachi Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (optional; can include peas, carrots, or mushrooms)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious hibachi fried rice ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. This will give your rice a nice flavor and allow it to fry properly.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until it releases a fragrant smell.
3. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the onion and garlic to the side of the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until they are just cooked through. This only takes a minute or two.
4. Add Rice and Veggies:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, followed by the chilled rice and any chopped vegetables you’re using. Stir everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice and mixing well.
5. Add Sauce:
Gradually stir in the soy sauce, making sure to coat all the rice evenly. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
6. Add Green Onions:
Finally, add the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last stir to combine.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat, garnish with any remaining green onions, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious hibachi fried rice!
This simple hibachi fried rice is perfect for beginners, quick to prepare, and delivers that classic savory flavor found in hibachi restaurants! Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or steak to make it a fuller meal.
FAQ for Easy Hibachi Fried Rice
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables are perfect for this recipe. Just add them directly to the pan with the rice, and they’ll heat through nicely without needing to be thawed first!
What If I Don’t Have Day-Old Rice?
No problem! If you don’t have day-old rice, cook your rice and spread it out on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes to cool. This helps dry it out so it won’t clump together when frying.
How Can I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet on medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to a fluffy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, it’s easy to make this dish vegetarian! Skip the eggs if you want a vegan version, or replace them with tofu for added protein. You could also include some extra vegetables to make it more filling!
