Benihana Fried Rice Recipe: A Delicious Dish You Can Make at Home
Want to recreate the magic of Benihana's famous fried rice? This recipe will guide you through making this delicious dish right in your own kitchen. Forget the hefty restaurant bill; enjoy this restaurant-quality meal affordably and conveniently.
Ingredients for Benihana-Style Fried Rice
This recipe focuses on capturing the essence of Benihana's signature fried rice, using readily available ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil is best for high-heat cooking and won't compete with the flavor of the rice.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Day-old rice is ideal, as it's drier and won't become mushy during cooking.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper: Provides a vibrant color and crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots: Contributes sweetness and a nice crunch.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: A classic addition for color and freshness.
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts: Adds a light, refreshing crunch.
- 2 scrambled eggs: Adds richness and protein.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or to taste): Provides the salty umami flavor characteristic of Benihana's style.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a lovely sheen to the finished rice.
- Optional additions: Chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and a dash of sesame oil for an authentic touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Benihana Fried Rice
Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to achieve that perfectly fried rice:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by chopping all vegetables into small, roughly uniform pieces. Having everything prepped before you start cooking will make the process much smoother and faster. Ensure your rice is day-old or well-cooled. Scrambled eggs should be cooked separately and set aside.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and carrots, stirring frequently until they soften, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the bell peppers and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps. The goal is to get the rice lightly browned and slightly crispy around the edges, but not burnt.
Step 4: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients
Add the frozen peas, bean sprouts, and scrambled eggs to the rice mixture. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the peas are heated through and the bean sprouts are slightly wilted.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Stir in the soy sauce and butter, mixing thoroughly to coat the rice evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add any optional additions such as chopped scallions or sesame seeds at this point.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Benihana-style fried rice immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or main course.
Tips for Benihana Fried Rice Success
- Use day-old rice: This prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- High heat is key: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve the desired texture and browning.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of rice, work in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust: Add more soy sauce or other seasonings as needed to suit your preferences.
This recipe provides a delicious and authentic take on Benihana fried rice, perfect for your next home cooking adventure. Now go forth and recreate the restaurant experience in the comfort of your own kitchen!
