Hibachi Fried Rice (Simple Japanese Style Recipe)

This hibachi fried rice is simple, quick, and perfectly seasoned! It takes a few ingredients and 10 minutes to make this delicious fried rice - just like you get at Benihana.

Jump to:

• What is Hibachi Fried Rice?
• What is the difference between Hibachi fried rice and Chinese fried rice?
• Ingredients You'll Need
• Variations
• Preparations Step By Step
• Tips for making the Best Hibachi Fried Rice 
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage
• Recipe FAQS
• Recipe
• Comments

What is Hibachi Fried Rice?

Hibachi fried rice is a popular choice in Japanese steakhouses and many restaurant chains. The term 'Hibachi' is interchangeably used as teppanyaki(teppan-yaki) in the US and some western countries.

Teppanyaki refers to the words 'teppan'(iron plate) and 'yaki'(grilled). Teppanyaki style cooking uses a flat surface metal plate to cook food by skilled chefs more often in a restaurant setting. However, the true Japanese hibachi translates to 'fire pot' which is a small charcoal grill with an open grate design used for heating and cooking purposes. 

This perfect copycat recipe is very simple yet full of flavor. It comes together in just 10 minutes from start to finish and is quite economical. No teppanyaki grill top needed to make this. You can use a wok, skillet, frying pan, or something that is big enough to handle the mixing of the rice.

You may also like these:

• Ramen Scrambled Eggs
• Egg Fried Rice
• Ethiopian cabbage
• Vegetarian Chow Mein
• Cheese Ramen

What is the difference between Hibachi fried rice and Chinese fried rice?

The major difference between the two in taste is hibachi style fried rice uses butter and more soy sauce than the Chinese counterpart.

In terms of ingredients, hibachi fried rice and Chinese fried rice also have distinct characteristics. Chinese fried rice typically includes a variety of diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, and onions, as well as eggs and sometimes shrimp or chicken. 

Hibachi fried rice, on the other hand, is known for its rich buttery flavor, and typically includes fewer vegetables but more of certain types, such as zucchini and onions. It also often features teppanyaki sauce or soy sauce, bringing a unique savory flavor to the dish.

Preparation methods also vary. Chinese fried rice is often prepared in a wok over high heat, with ingredients added in rapid succession to achieve a seared flavor. Hibachi fried rice, in contrast, is typically prepared on a large, flat grill, and ingredients are often cooked separately before being combined.

Lastly, the presentation is often different. Hibachi fried rice is commonly served as part of a teppanyaki-style meal, alongside grilled meats and vegetables, and the cooking process is often performed in front of the diners for entertainment. Chinese fried rice, however, is traditionally served as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to other dishes.

Ingredients You'll Need

This hibachi fried rice is very simple. To make this, you only need 8 easily available ingredients.

Rice: Any long grain white rice or Jasmine rice will do. Be sure to use cooked, chilled rice. A day-old rice or leftover rice works best. You can even use freshly cooked rice, in that case, make sure to cool the rice completely and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes uncovered.

Butter: Butter gives the signature flavor of hibachi fried rice. Do not skip. Unsalted butter is best then you can control the salt content. If you only have salted butter, reduce the extra salt you add for the best results.

Sesame oil: I like to use a combination of butter and sesame oil. You could use only butter if you like. Vegetable oil, soybean oil are great substitutes.

Eggs: Another important ingredient in hibachi rice. Eggs add great texture, flavor, and protein to the fried rice. 

Soy sauce: Soy sauce adds that umami flavor to the rice. I have used regular soy sauce. Use low sodium soy sauce or light soy sauce if you wish.

Scallions: Scallions or green onions chopped into small pieces.

Salt and black pepper: Use as per taste.

Variations

This simple hibachi fried rice recipe can be easily customized. You can add any protein or veggies you like. Hibachi chicken is a common variation that you'll see at a hibachi restaurant. Ham and shrimp are some popular additions. In vegetable carrots, green peas, bell pepper, onion, garlic are some popular add-ons.

Preparations Step By Step

• Prep ingredients: Prepare the ingredients in advance. Beat the eggs, chop the scallions, crumble the rice with your hands and set aside.
• Scramble the eggs: Heat butter and oil in a pan or wok over medium flame. Once heated add beaten eggs and lightly scramble them.

• Add rice and seasoning: Add rice, salt, crushed pepper, soy sauce, and chopped scallions.
• Stir fry rice: Stir over a high flame until the soy sauce coats the rice well and caramelizes into the rice.
• Serve: Turn off the flame and serve immediately.

Tips for making the Best Hibachi Fried Rice 

• Use a day old rice: Cook the rice a day ahead and refrigerate. This will help the rice to dry enough and give the fried rice a perfect texture.
• Use Butter: Butter makes the fried rice richer and even more flavorful.
• Stir the rice over high heat: Stirring the rice over high flame gives the rice a smoky taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this as it is or with yum yum sauce or any hibachi side dish to enjoy a complete hibachi meal.  

Hibachi fried rice and yum yum sauce is a popular combo. You can also serve this as it is or with any hibachi side dish for a complete meal.

For homemade yum yum sauce whisk together mayonnaise, butter, sriracha, sugar, paprika, and garlic powder.

Storage

Leftover hibachi rice can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, ensuring that you'll have a quick and delicious meal option for days when you're too busy to cook. To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. 

To freeze hibachi fried rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Spread the rice in a thin layer within the container, as this will allow it to freeze and reheat more evenly. Frozen hibachi fried rice can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. 

To reheat, thaw the frozen rice in the refrigerator overnight. You can then microwave it or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking and restore its original flavor. Cooking directly from frozen is also an option: simply add a little extra time to the reheating process.

Recipe FAQS

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Hibachi Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be a healthier alternative to white rice, as it contains more fiber and nutrients. Just keep in mind that brown rice has a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor that will slightly alter the final outcome of the dish. 

Can I make this Hibachi Fried Rice vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, you can create a vegetarian or vegan version of Hibachi Fried Rice. For a vegetarian version, simply omit any meat. For a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with tofu scramble and use a vegan butter substitute from your grocery store.

Can I use other types of oil instead of sesame oil?

Yes, you can use other types of oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. However, sesame oil adds a distinct flavor that is characteristic of Hibachi Fried Rice. If you choose to use a different oil, the flavor may vary slightly.

If you try the recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and rating. I love hearing from you; it also helps other readers who are thinking of making the recipe.

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