If you have ever craved that perfectly savory, buttery, and satisfying fried rice from your favorite Japanese steakhouse, you are going to absolutely love making this Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe right at home. It captures all the flavors that make the original so unforgettable—the rich garlic butter, fluffy eggs, fresh vegetables, and that hint of sweetness and peppery warmth—all coming together in one vibrant, restaurant-quality dish. Trust me, once you master this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it out instead of whipping it up yourself in just minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and careful selection of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the mouthwatering layers of flavor and texture, from the tender crunch of diced carrots to the fragrant garlic butter that ties everything together like magic.
- 2 cups cold, day-old white rice: Using leftover rice keeps the grains separate and prevents sogginess, giving you that perfect fried rice texture.
- 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil that helps cook veggies and rice evenly without overpowering the flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings a fragrant punch, essential for the authentic taste.
- ½ cup chopped white onion: Adds mild sweetness and crunch.
- 1 medium carrot (diced): Provides vibrant color and a subtle earthiness.
- 3 green onions (sliced thin): Brings freshness and a hint of sharpness.
- 2 large eggs: Scrambled into the rice, they add richness and a lovely fluffy texture.
- 2 Tablespoons garlic butter: The star of the dish, combining softened butter, minced garlic, and soy sauce to infuse the rice with indulgent, savory notes.
- 2 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: For a balanced salty depth without overwhelming the other tastes.
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper: Adds a gentle heat and subtle warmth.
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar: Just enough to round out the savory flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup salted butter (softened): Used to make the garlic butter, which enriches and flavors the rice.
- 3 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce: Incorporated into the garlic butter for that signature umami kick.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Added to the butter mixture to boost the garlicky goodness.
How to Make Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened salted butter with the minced garlic and soy sauce. Stir until everything is well blended, then cover and refrigerate it to chill. This garlic butter will be the flavor powerhouse of your fried rice, giving it that signature richness and irresistible aroma.
Step 2: Prep Your Rice and Veggies
Make sure your white rice was cooked the day before and stored in the fridge overnight. This dry, cold rice is essential for keeping the grains separate when frying. Dice your carrots, chop the onions, and slice the green onions thinly. Having everything ready and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.
Step 3: Start Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Then toss in the chopped white onion, diced carrots, and green onions. Stir fry for a few minutes until the vegetables become crisp-tender, adding delightful texture and color to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Scramble the Eggs
Add the cold rice to the skillet, stirring and breaking up any clumps so everything heats evenly. Push the rice mixture to one side and crack the eggs on the other. Gently scramble them until they are almost fully cooked, about 90 percent done. Then incorporate the eggs into the rice, mixing everything thoroughly.
Step 5: Season and Finish with Garlic Butter
Season your rice with soy sauce, white pepper, and granulated sugar, stirring to distribute the flavors evenly. Finally, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of that luscious garlic butter you prepared earlier, folding it into the rice so it melts and coats every grain in pure deliciousness. Cook for just a couple more minutes, then serve hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the finished fried rice with additional thinly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and attractive presentation. A few fresh cilantro leaves can also brighten up each bite and introduce lovely herbal notes.
Side Dishes
This fried rice pairs amazingly well with grilled or sautéed meats like hibachi steak, chicken, or shrimp. For a fully authentic experience, serve it alongside some steamed vegetables or a light Asian-inspired salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating your Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe by molding it into neat little rice domes using a small bowl or a measuring cup. This adds a touch of elegance and fun that makes the meal feel even more special whether you’re enjoying it on a casual weeknight or impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover fried rice in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and satisfying next-day meal or lunch that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to save some for even later, transfer cooled fried rice into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. Be sure to flatten the rice out for quicker thawing and more even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if it feels dry. Stir frequently until heated through and that irresistible garlic butter aroma returns. Avoid microwaving if possible, to preserve the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice for this recipe?
While freshly cooked rice can work, day-old cold rice is preferred because it is drier and less sticky, which helps achieve the perfect fried rice texture. If using fresh rice, spread it out and cool it thoroughly before frying.
What can I substitute for garlic butter if I don’t have time to make it?
You can use regular butter and add extra minced garlic while cooking the vegetables as a quick alternative, but making garlic butter ahead really enhances the authentic flavor of this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs and use a plant-based butter substitute to make the garlic butter. You can also add tofu or extra veggies for protein and texture.
Why is day-old rice best for fried rice?
Day-old rice has had time to dry out, meaning it won’t clump or become mushy when stir-fried. Freshly cooked rice often has more moisture, which can result in soggy fried rice.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe with peas, corn, mushrooms, shrimp, chicken, or beef. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe is one of those gems that makes you feel like a restaurant chef right in your own kitchen. It’s quick, uses accessible ingredients, and packs a flavor punch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked on making this classic fried rice anytime you crave that warm, buttery comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Print
Easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
Description
This easy Copycat Benihana Fried Rice recipe delivers the iconic restaurant flavor right at home. Made with day-old rice, fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and rich garlic butter, it’s a quick and satisfying stovetop dish perfect for weeknight dinners or sides that pair well with Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 2 cups cold, day-old white rice
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chopped white onion
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced thin
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter (see below)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
For the Garlic Butter
- ½ cup salted butter, softened
- 3 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, low-sodium soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly to mix all the ingredients evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the garlic butter to chill until ready to use.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 15-30 seconds. Then add chopped white onions, diced carrots, and sliced green onions. Cook and stir for a few minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add Cold Rice: Incorporate the cold, day-old white rice into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir continuously to break up any clumps and cook for about 2 minutes to heat through.
- Cook the Eggs: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet to create space. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until about 90% cooked. Then mix the scrambled eggs into the rice and vegetable mixture thoroughly.
- Season the Rice: Add 2 tablespoons of garlic butter, low-sodium soy sauce, white pepper, and granulated sugar to the skillet. Stir continuously to evenly distribute the seasonings and garlic butter throughout. Cook and fry the mixture for an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve Warm: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the fried rice immediately while warm. Enjoy this flavorful and easy homemade version of Benihana fried rice!
Notes
- For best results, cook the white rice the night before and refrigerate overnight to dry out and prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier alternative, but texture and cooking time may vary.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and garlic butter according to your taste preferences for saltiness and richness.
- This recipe is ideal for using up leftover rice and is quick enough for a weeknight meal.
