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Fried Rice Recipe

This simple hibachi-inspired fried rice is packed with flavor and is easy to make. With ingredients like white rice, butter, soy sauce, and veggies, it’s a versatile and delicious dish that works great as a main course or side dish.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Servings: 6
Calories: 301kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice long-grain or jasmine rice also works
  • 1 egg whisked/scrambled
  • ½ cup chopped carrots fresh or frozen
  • ½ cup peas frozen recommended
  • ½ cup white onion chopped
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 –3 tablespoons peanut canola, or vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil optional

Instructions

  • Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) so it's cold and firm, perfect for frying.
  • While the rice cools, soften the butter by leaving it on the counter or microwaving it in short intervals. Mash the butter with a fork and mix in the soy sauce. It's fine if the mixture doesn’t combine completely.
  • Next, heat a splash of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the whisked egg and scramble it, using a spatula to break it into small chunks. Once cooked, remove the egg from the skillet and set it aside.
  • Add another splash of oil to the skillet, then add the carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about 4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and warmed through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the veggies from the skillet and set them aside with the egg.
  • For the fried rice, add another splash of oil to the skillet and then add the cold, cooked rice. Toss it every 30 seconds to warm it through and lightly brown it, cooking for about 4-5 minutes. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
  • Drizzle the butter-soy sauce mixture over the rice, tossing to coat evenly. Cook until the rice is completely coated and there are no more visible white grains of rice.
  • Return the veggies and scrambled egg to the skillet. If using sesame oil, drizzle it over the rice and stir everything until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Cold rice: Always use cold rice for fried rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together.
Veggies: Frozen peas and carrots are convenient and minimize prep time, though fresh vegetables can be used if preferred.
Soy sauce: Start with low-sodium soy sauce to avoid an overly salty dish and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Wok: A wok is ideal for this recipe, as it holds a large volume and distributes heat evenly. If using a skillet, choose the largest one available and use enough oil to prevent sticking.
Keep ingredients moving: Continuously stir the rice and veggies in the skillet to prevent burning. Have all ingredients prepped and ready for a smoother cooking process.