Benihana Fried Rice Recipe: Make Hibachi Magic at Home (No Teppanyaki Table Required)
The Sizzle You Can’t Resist
Ever found yourself mesmerized by the theatrical flair of a Benihana chef, flipping shrimp tails into their hat and setting onions ablaze? Yeah, me too. But let’s be real—while the show is fun, it’s the Benihana fried rice that steals the spotlight. That buttery, garlicky, umami-packed goodness is the real MVP. And guess what? You don’t need a hibachi grill or a culinary degree to whip it up at home. Let’s dive into the delicious world of DIY hibachi-style fried rice!
Why This Recipe Rocks
- Flavor Explosion: This isn’t your average fried rice. The combination of garlic butter, soy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a symphony of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.
- Simple Ingredients: No need for exotic pantry items. You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already.
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups day-old cooked white rice (short-grain or medium-grain preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Tools & Kitchen Gadgets Used
- Wok or large skillet
- Spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Rice cooker or pot (for cooking rice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Rice: If you haven’t already, cook your rice and let it cool completely. Day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky.
- Sauté Aromatics: In your wok or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook Veggies: Add chopped onions and carrots. Sauté until they begin to soften, around 3-4 minutes.
- Scramble Eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble until fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the scrambled eggs with the veggies. Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
- Season: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Green Onions: Stir in the sliced green onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Benihana-style fried rice!
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 471 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on added proteins or vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and can lead to mushy fried rice. Use day-old rice for best results.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Skipping the Garlic Butter: This is what gives Benihana fried rice its signature flavor. Don’t skip it!
- Not Prepping Ingredients: Have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. The process moves quickly.
Variations & Customizations
- Keto-Friendly: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice and reduce soy sauce to lower carb content.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for some heat.
- Vegetarian Swap: Omit meat and add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled properly.
Q: Is it necessary to use a wok?
A: While a wok is ideal due to its high sides and heat distribution, a large skillet works just fine.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, fried rice stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for best texture.
Q: What proteins work best in this recipe?
A: Chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu all pair wonderfully with this fried rice.
Q: How can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze leftover fried rice?
A: Yes, store in airtight containers and freeze for up to a month. Thaw and reheat in a pan.
Q: What’s the best rice to use?
A: Short-grain or medium-grain white rice is preferred for its texture.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a simple, delicious, and customizable Benihana fried rice recipe you can make at home. No need for fancy equipment or a chef’s hat. Just a few ingredients, a hot pan, and a craving for that iconic hibachi flavor. Give it a try and bring the Benihana experience to your kitchen!
