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japanese fried rice recipe
Aima Solace

Japanese Fried Rice Recipe

A quick and savory Japanese fried rice (yakimeshi) made with short-grain rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This umami-packed dish is ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for using leftover rice!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked short-grain Japanese rice preferably day-old, chilled
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 1 small carrot finely diced
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • ½ cup diced ham or cooked chicken optional, or use tofu for vegetarian
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten (omit for egg-free)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tsp mirin optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ tsp MSG optional, for umami

Method
 

  1. Prepare ingredients: Chop vegetables finely and break up rice clumps.
  2. Heat pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over high heat until shimmering.
  3. Cook vegetables: Add onion and carrot, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  4. Add protein: If using ham, chicken, or tofu, stir-fry for 1 minute.
  5. Scramble eggs: Push ingredients to one side, pour in eggs, and scramble until just set (30 seconds). Break into small pieces. Skip for egg-free version.
  6. Stir-fry rice: Add rice, spread evenly, and let sit for 30 seconds to crisp. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Season: Add soy sauce, mirin, salt, pepper, and MSG (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute.
  8. Finish: Toss in green onions, stir for 30 seconds, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of oil.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Substitutions: Swap rice for cauliflower rice for low-carb, or use tamari for gluten-free.
  • Make it spicy: Add chili oil or sriracha for heat.
  • Vegetarian: Use tofu, edamame, or mushrooms instead of meat.
  • Pro tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle furikake or drizzle sesame oil before serving.

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