If you’ve ever been to a Japanese steakhouse, you know that hibachi fried rice is one of the stars of the meal.
Now, you can make this flavorful and aromatic fried rice at home, without needing a hibachi grill. Packed with vegetables, garlic butter, and rich umami flavor, this meatless recipe captures the essence of the classic dish. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Before we begin, gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience:
For the Fried Rice
- 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old works best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 large eggs (optional for vegetarians who consume eggs)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Hibachi Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
The garlic butter gives hibachi fried rice its signature depth of flavor. Combine softened butter, minced garlic, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
Mix thoroughly until it forms a smooth paste. Set it aside for later to enhance the rice’s flavor.
Pro Tip: Prepare extra garlic butter and store it in the fridge for other recipes like sautéed vegetables or garlic bread.
Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients
Have everything ready before you start cooking, as the process is quick. Chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Whisk the eggs in a bowl if using them. Measure out your soy sauce and sesame oil for easy access.
Why Day-Old Rice? Freshly cooked rice is moist and sticky, which causes clumping during frying. Day-old rice is drier and separates easily, giving you the perfect texture for fried rice.
Step 3: Start Cooking the Vegetables
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and let it heat for a few seconds. Toss in diced onions and carrots. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions turn translucent and carrots soften slightly.
Add peas and any optional add-ins, like mushrooms or tofu, and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs (Optional)
Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour whisked eggs into the empty side and scramble them quickly. Once cooked, mix eggs with the vegetables.
Note: Skip eggs or use tofu scramble for a vegan version.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Increase heat to high and add cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with a spatula, ensuring rice mixes evenly with vegetables. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, allowing rice to warm through.
Step 6: Season the Rice
Drizzle soy sauce over rice while stirring continuously. Stir in prepared garlic butter, making sure it coats every grain of rice.
Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until rice is slightly crispy at the edges and infused with flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer fried rice to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a final touch. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side salad, miso soup, or steamed edamame for a balanced meal.
Tips for the Perfect Hibachi Fried Rice
- Use a Hot Pan: High heat creates the slightly crispy texture you find in restaurants.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if doubling the recipe to avoid steaming the rice.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Broccoli, baby corn, or bok choy make great additions. Paneer or halloumi works well for a vegetarian protein boost.
- Balance the Saltiness: Soy sauce is salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
- Rice Alternatives: Brown rice or jasmine rice offer different textures and flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
2. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
Use olive oil or a neutral cooking oil, but note that sesame oil adds authentic nutty flavor.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hibachi fried rice is:
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Packed with umami flavor from garlic butter and soy sauce
- A perfect side dish or standalone meal
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins
