Benihana Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

As you all know that I'm a registered dietitian and cooking enthusiast with years of experience in the kitchen, I’ve tried countless recipes, but this one never fails to impress. 

Easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a hit at any gathering, this recipe gives you that restaurant vibe from the comfort of your home. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, Benihana fried rice will take center stage on your table.

What is Benihana Fried Rice?

Benihana fried rice is a signature dish hailing from the renowned Japanese steakhouse chain, Benihana. Known for its teppanyaki style cooking, the restaurant serves up fried rice that's fluffy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. 

This dish features perfectly cooked rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and often some protein, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Why This Recipe Works

You might wonder why this recipe stands out among so many fried rice versions. Here are a few compelling reasons why this recipe works.

1. Simplicity: The ingredients list is straightforward, making it easy even for beginner cooks. You won’t be lost in a sea of complex culinary terms.
2. Flavorful Combinations: The mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sugar brings out the rice's natural sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
3. Versatility: This recipe is a canvas. Feel free to add your choice of protein—be it shrimp, chicken, or tofu, making it adaptable to any dietary preference.
4. Using Day-Old Rice: The texture of day-old rice is perfect for frying. It's drier than fresh rice, ensuring each grain is separate, preventing clumping.

Ingredients You'll Need to Make This Benihana Fried Rice

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step toward delicious fried rice. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 3 scallions, chopped
• 1/4 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons garlic-infused butter
• 1.5 cups of rice (preferably a day old)
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon MSG (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 lb shrimp (or substitute your choice of protein)
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce (for the shrimp)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (for the shrimp)
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (for the shrimp)
• 1 teaspoon neutral oil (such as avocado oil)
• For the garlic butter:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 teaspoons light soy sauce
  • 3 cloves of garlic, finely grated
• Ingredients for extra flair:
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make These?

Creating your own Benihana fried rice may sound intimidating, but it's straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to whip up this dish in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering and preparing your ingredients. Dice your carrot, chop your scallions, and finely chop your onion. Mince the garlic and set everything aside for quick access. The more organized you are, the smoother the cooking process will be.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with light soy sauce and finely grated garlic. This will act as the flavorful base for your fried rice. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Set this aside while you cook the rice.

Step 3: Cook Your Protein

If you’re using shrimp, season it with half a tablespoon of soy sauce, sea salt, and white pepper. Heat 1 teaspoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the garlic-infused butter. Use it to sauté the carrots, onions, and scallions until soft—this should take about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you might just find it hard to wait for the next steps!

Step 5: Add the Rice

Add the day-old rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. This is crucial for getting that perfect fried rice texture. Mix well. Add the soy sauce, white pepper, sugar, MSG (if desired), and sea salt. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Scramble the Eggs

Create a space in the rice by pushing it to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into this space and scramble them until cooked through. Once done, mix the eggs into the rice mixture.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

After scrambling the eggs, return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Drizzle with sesame oil and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want that extra kick. Combine everything well, allowing it to heat for another minute.

Serve your homemade Benihana fried rice hot. Trust me, the looks on your friends’ and family’s faces will be priceless!

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your fried rice turns out restaurant-quality:

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky. Day-old rice has the right texture.
• High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that delicious char and flavor.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a lot of ingredients, consider cooking in batches to avoid steaming instead of frying.
• Fresh Herbs for Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the dish visually and add a fresh note.
• Fluff After Cooking: Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving. This will make it look more appetizing.

Nutrition Information

Here's a quick rundown of what you're eating. For one serving (about one cup) of Benihana fried rice, you can expect roughly the following:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fats: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them properly. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be good for about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent them from drying out. Microwaving covered is an easy way to warm them up.

Recommended Side Dishes for Benihana Fried Rice

Here’s a look at some side dishes that perfectly complement this rice:

• Hibachi Vegetables: Stir-fried zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers add a healthful crunch.
• Egg Drop Soup: Silky smooth and warm, this soup is comforting and light.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside, warm on the inside—these bites are a delightful finger food.
• Edamame: Steamed and lightly salted, these vibrant beans are a healthy snack.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Running out of an ingredient is never fun, but here are some convenient substitutes:

• Rice: If you don’t have regular rice, consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Garlic-Infused Butter: If you’re out, regular butter or olive oil will still yield a tasty result.
• Shrimp: Use diced chicken, tofu, or even tempeh for non-meat alternatives.
• Soy Sauce: If you need a gluten-free option, tamari works just as well minus the gluten.

Conclusion

Creating Benihana fried rice at home is easier than you might think, and the satisfaction of cooking such a beloved dish can’t be matched. This meal is versatile, perfect for any occasion, and it’s sure to impress. I hope you try this recipe and enjoy it as much as I do. Happy cooking!

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• Easy Shrimp Fried Copycat Rice Recipe Without Vegetables
• How to Make Chinese Egg Fried Rice
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