Everyone loves the taste of fresh, flavorful fried rice, and there’s something truly special about the way it’s prepared at Benihana. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma evoke memories of delightful dining experiences. Thankfully, you can recreate the magic of this iconic dish at home with a fantastic recipe for Copycat Benihana Fried Rice.
This easily accessible version captures the essence of the restaurant’s signature flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gathering with friends. Not only is it satisfying, but it’s also customizable—allowing you to add your favorite proteins or veggies. Dive into this tasty adventure and learn how to bring that hibachi flair into your kitchen!
Flavor Profile of This Fried Rice:
The flavor profile of Copycat Benihana Fried Rice is a delicious symphony of savory and umami notes, evoking the essence of Japanese teppanyaki dining right in your kitchen. This dish tantalizes your taste buds with a perfect harmony of garlic, onion, and soy sauce, creating a comforting backdrop that is both hearty and satisfying. The addition of fresh vegetables, such as peas and carrots, lends a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing its appeal.
Moreover, the inclusion of scrambled eggs contributes a creamy texture and richness that harmonizes beautifully with the rice. To amplify flavors, using a splash of sesame oil adds a nutty undertone, elevating the overall experience. Pair this fried rice with flavorful proteins like shrimp or chicken to create a balanced meal that leaves you craving more. For a delightful variation, consider trying a similar dish like this broccoli rice, cheese, and chicken casserole that showcases versatile flavors and textures. Overall, Copycat Benihana Fried Rice is a delightful crowd-pleaser that is simple yet extraordinary!
Ingredients for Copycat Benihana Fried Rice:
Recreate the restaurant favorite in your own kitchen with this delectable Copycat Benihana Fried Rice. Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
For the Fried Rice:
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil, divided
- 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 scallions, sliced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups cooked, day-old rice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Combine these flavorful ingredients for an unforgettable dish. The garlic butter adds richness to the fried rice, enhancing each bite with robust flavors. For more delightful rice-infused recipes, check out this restaurant-style fried rice recipe that also showcases the versatility of rice in meals. Enjoy the taste of Benihana at home!
How to Prepare Copycat Benihana Fried Rice:
To create your own scrumptious Copycat Benihana Fried Rice, start by making the beloved garlic butter. In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup of softened butter with 4 cloves of minced garlic and 2 teaspoons of soy sauce. Set this delightful mixture aside.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add in diced carrots and onions, tossing for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour in the lightly beaten eggs, scrambling them until cooked through.
Stir in 4 cups of day-old rice, incorporating the vegetables and eggs together. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil to round out the flavor. Finally, drizzle in your prepared garlic butter for that signature taste we love. For more delicious rice recipes, check out this Restaurant-style Fried Rice recipe. For an authentic twist, consider referring to the detailed guide on Benihana Fried Rice. Enjoy your meal!
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Fried Rice:
To create the ultimate Copycat Benihana Fried Rice, mastering the right cooking techniques is essential. First, start with day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when you fry it. Ensure your rice is chilled and dry; this helps achieve that perfect, fluffy texture. Next, use high heat when you sauté your vegetables and proteins. This quick cooking method seals in flavors and prevents sogginess.
Additionally, keep your ingredients moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and browning. Another tip is to add soy sauce gradually. This allows you to control the flavor intensity without making the dish overly salty.
You can explore more easy rice recipes like a delicious easy hamburger rice casserole to broaden your cooking skills. Finally, finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for a nutty aroma—this step elevates your homemade fried rice to restaurant-quality perfection!
Serving Suggestions for Copycat Benihana Fried Rice:
Serving your homemade Copycat Benihana Fried Rice can elevate your dining experience significantly. First, consider pairing it with succulent grilled proteins such as teriyaki chicken or shrimp. These rich flavors complement the savory notes of the rice beautifully. You might also opt for a refreshing side salad, like a crispy rice salmon cucumber salad, to balance the meal’s richness and add some crunch.
For a complete dinner experience, serve your fried rice alongside a bowl of miso soup or a simple vegetable stir-fry. These dishes harmonize well, bringing a taste of Japanese cuisine right to your kitchen. Moreover, if you enjoy casseroles, check out our easy hamburger rice casserole for a delightful twist you can try on those busy nights. Finally, garnishing your Copycat Benihana Fried Rice with green onions or sesame seeds can give it a pop of flavor and color, making it not only tasty but visually appealing.
Storage Tips for Copycat Benihana Fried Rice:
To store your delicious Copycat Benihana Fried Rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate this savory dish for up to 3-4 days. For longer preservation, consider freezing it in portions. When you need a quick meal, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave. For another rice delight, check out this easy hamburger rice casserole recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Copycat Benihana Fried Rice?
Copycat Benihana Fried Rice is a homemade version of the iconic fried rice served at Benihana restaurants. It features cooked rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and often a choice of proteins, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, mimicking the restaurant’s flavorful dish.
How can I make it vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit any meat and use plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Additionally, you can enhance flavors with rich sauces and extra veggies. For more vegetarian rice inspiration, check out my broccoli rice casserole recipe.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice in this recipe. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary, and it might lead to a slightly nuttier flavor.
What proteins can I add to this rice dish?
You can customize your Copycat Benihana Fried Rice with proteins like chicken, shrimp, or beef. You can also incorporate a mix of these proteins for a heartier meal, adding variety and flavor.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushy rice, use day-old rice for frying, as fresh rice tends to clump. Make sure to spread it out on a tray for a bit to cool before cooking, allowing excess moisture to evaporate.
Are there any common toppings for this dish?
Common toppings include green onions, sesame seeds, and even a drizzle of sriracha for heat. These toppings add texture and enhance the overall flavor, making it a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
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Copycat Benihana Fried Rice: A Satisfying Delight at Home
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Copycat Benihana Fried Rice is the ultimate way to bring the famous hibachi flavors right into your kitchen. Combining savory soy sauce, rich garlic butter, and the perfect balance of scrambled eggs and vegetables, this dish is both comforting and customizable. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this easy-to-make fried rice will evoke fond memories of your favorite restaurant experience.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter:
¼ cup butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons soy sauce
For the Fried Rice:
1 tablespoon neutral oil (divided)
4 eggs, lightly beaten
2 medium carrots, diced
1 medium onion, diced
6 scallions, sliced
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups cooked, day-old rice
1 tablespoon soy sauce, or to taste
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
Make the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Set aside.
Prepare the Fried Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
Add diced carrots and onions to the skillet, tossing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Push the vegetables to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until cooked through.
Stir in the cooked day-old rice, ensuring the eggs and vegetables are well incorporated.
Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together, then drizzle in the prepared garlic butter, mixing until well combined.
Serve warm, garnished with sliced scallions.
Notes
Using day-old rice is key for perfect fried rice, as freshly cooked rice tends to become mushy when fried.
Adjust the amount of soy sauce based on your taste preference.
For extra flavor, you can add cooked shrimp, chicken, or beef to the fried rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Side Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Japanese / Hibachi
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Copycat Benihana Fried Rice,Benihana Fried Rice Recipe,Hibachi Fried Rice,Homemade Fried Rice,Japanese Fried Rice Recipe