Benihana Fried Rice Recipe: A Taste of Teppanyaki at Home

Benihana is renowned for its sizzling teppanyaki experience, and a key highlight of that experience is their delicious fried rice. While you might not be able to replicate the full theatrical experience at home, you can achieve that signature Benihana fried rice flavor. This guide will walk you through a recipe that gets you remarkably close.

Understanding the Benihana Fried Rice Magic

The secret to Benihana's fried rice isn't just about the ingredients; it's about the technique. They use a high heat wok to achieve that perfectly crisp rice, and they incorporate a well-balanced blend of flavors. We'll break down both aspects in this recipe.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor:

• Day-old rice: This is crucial! Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will steam instead of crisp up. Day-old rice is drier and will fry perfectly.
• Butter: Adds richness and a pleasant aroma.
• Soy sauce: Provides the salty umami base.
• Ginger and Garlic: Essential aromatics that elevate the savory notes.
• Vegetables: Benihana typically uses a mix of onions, carrots, and peas. Feel free to experiment with others like scallions or bell peppers.
• Eggs: Add protein and creaminess.
• Protein: Traditionally, they use chicken or steak, but shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables alone work well.

The Benihana Fried Rice Recipe: Step-by-Step

This recipe assumes you're using a wok or a large skillet. A wok is ideal for achieving the best results, but a large skillet will suffice.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups day-old cooked rice
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken or other protein (optional)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sake (optional, adds depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep your ingredients: Chop all your vegetables and measure out your seasonings. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smoother and faster.
2. High heat: Heat your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
3. Sauté vegetables: Add the onions, carrots, and garlic and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened but still slightly crisp.
4. Add protein (optional): If using protein, add it now and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Scramble eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked.
6. Combine rice: Add the day-old rice to the wok and break it up with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown slightly and become crisp.
7. Seasoning magic: Stir in the soy sauce, sake (if using), and ginger. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
8. Add peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last minute of cooking.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Tips for Benihana-Level Fried Rice:

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Work in batches if necessary to ensure the rice crisps up properly.
• Keep it moving: Constant stirring is key to prevent burning and to achieve even cooking.
• Taste and adjust: Adjust the soy sauce to your liking. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the saltiness.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different vegetables, proteins, or even a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicier kick.

Beyond the Recipe: Mastering the Teppanyaki Spirit

While this recipe focuses on the fried rice, remember the Benihana experience is more than just the food. It's about the fun, the energy, and the showmanship. Try to embrace that spirit in your cooking – even if it's just for yourself! Enjoy!