Go Back

Benihana Fried Rice

This copycat Benihana fried rice recipe brings the hibachi steakhouse experience right to your home kitchen. Fluffy, flavorful rice with irresistible toasted edges made with butter, sesame oil, and the perfect balance of soy sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dishes
Cuisine: Japanese American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups day old cooked white rice cold from the refrigerator
  • 3 tablespoons butter divided
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 3/4 cup diced carrots
  • 3/4 cup frozen peas
  • 4 green onions thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Equipment

  • Large wok or 12 inch skillet
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Spatula or wok turner
  • Small bowl for beaten eggs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Garlic press

Method
 

  1. Prepare all ingredients: Dice the onion and carrots into small, uniform pieces about the size of peas. Mince the garlic, slice the green onions, and beat the eggs in a small bowl.
  2. Heat your wok or large skillet over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to smoke slightly.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and swirl to coat the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them quickly, breaking them into small pieces. Remove the eggs and set them aside.
  4. Add another tablespoon of butter and the sesame oil to the hot pan. Toss in the onions and carrots, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
  5. Push the vegetables to one side and add the minced garlic to the empty space. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Break up any clumps of cold rice with your hands before adding it to the pan. Spread it in an even layer and let it sit untouched for 30 seconds to develop a slight crust. Then toss and stir, pressing the rice against the hot surface. Repeat this process several times.
  7. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, soy sauce, garlic salt, and white pepper. Toss everything together until the rice is evenly coated and takes on a light golden color.
  8. Add the frozen peas and cook for 1 minute until heated through. Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and toss to combine.
  9. Remove from heat and fold in the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the remaining green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use long grain white rice like jasmine for the best texture. Cook in batches if you double the recipe to avoid overcrowding the pan. Day old rice is essential - spread freshly cooked rice on a sheet pan and refrigerate for 2 hours as a quick alternative.