If you’ve ever enjoyed a meal at a Japanese hibachi grill, you know that hibachi fried rice is a must-have side dish. It’s flavorful, buttery, and packed with tasty veggies and eggs. The good news? You can easily make this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen! Let’s dive into how to make hibachi fried rice that’s just as good as the real deal.
What Is Hibachi Fried Rice?
Hibachi fried rice is a Japanese-style fried rice typically served at hibachi grill restaurants. It’s known for its savory, buttery flavor and the perfect balance of vegetables, egg, and soy sauce. Unlike some fried rice dishes, hibachi fried rice often includes a generous amount of butter and is cooked on high heat to give it a slightly crisp texture with a rich, mouthwatering taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic hibachi fried rice, gather the following ingredients:
– Cooked white rice (preferably cooked a day ahead and chilled)
– Butter (about 3 to 4 tablespoons)
– Eggs (2 large)
– Onion (finely chopped)
– Carrots (diced)
– Frozen peas (thawed)
– Garlic (minced)
– Soy sauce (2 to 3 tablespoons)
– Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions for garnish, and cooked protein like diced chicken, beef, or shrimp if you want to add some meat
Using rice that’s been cooked and refrigerated overnight is key because it dries out the grains, preventing the rice from becoming mushy when fried.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hibachi Fried Rice
1. Prep Your Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread it out on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This step helps the rice dry out and separate easily, which is essential for perfect fried rice.
2. Heat Your Pan
Place a wok or large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon or two of butter and let it melt. The pan needs to be hot to get that signature hibachi flavor and texture.
3. Cook the Eggs
In a small bowl, lightly whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the hot pan and scramble them gently until just cooked but still soft. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
Add more butter to the pan and toss in the chopped onions. Cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add diced carrots and peas, cooking until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Rice and Veggies
Turn the heat up to high and add the chilled rice to the pan. Stir well to combine with the veggies. Add the remaining butter and let it melt into the rice, stirring frequently. This step gives the rice a rich, buttery flavor and helps it get lightly browned and crispy in spots.
6. Add Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil
Pour in the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Stir constantly to evenly coat the rice and veggies. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Mix in the Eggs
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and gently fold them into the rice mixture. Cook for another minute to warm through and blend the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Serve your hibachi fried rice warm, alongside your favorite hibachi-style grilled meats or vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Hibachi Fried Rice
– Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and sticky for fried rice. Chilling it overnight dries it out for better texture.
– High heat is key: Cooking on medium-high to high heat helps to get that slightly crispy, smoky flavor.
– Butter makes it authentic: Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s what gives hibachi fried rice its signature richness.
– Add protein if you like: Diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef can be added with the veggies for a heartier dish.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: If making a large batch, cook in batches to ensure even frying and avoid steaming the rice.
What to Serve with Hibachi Fried Rice
Hibachi fried rice pairs perfectly with grilled hibachi meats like steak, chicken, or shrimp. You can also serve it with hibachi vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and onions for a complete meal. A side of yum yum sauce or soy sauce adds extra flavor to the plate.
Making hibachi fried rice at home is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy this flavorful dish any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll never want to order takeout again!