Japanese Fried Rice is a simple, tasty dish that combines fluffy rice with ingredients like scrambled eggs, green onions, soy sauce, and sometimes little bits of meat or veggies. It’s a great way to turn leftover rice into a quick, satisfying meal with a nice balance of flavors and textures.
I love making Japanese Fried Rice when I want something fast but still comforting. The key for me is using day-old rice because it fries up better and doesn’t get mushy. I also like to season it just right with a splash of soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil to bring out that classic umami flavor.
This fried rice works perfectly as a side or even a main dish when I want to keep things light but filling. Sometimes, I add a little pickled ginger on the side to give it a fresh, tangy kick. It’s one of those meals that feels homemade but never takes too long, and it always reminds me of cozy nights in with simple, delicious food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Japanese short-grain rice: This rice is sticky and slightly sweet, which gives fried rice its perfect texture. I recommend using day-old rice so it won’t get mushy. If you don’t have short-grain rice, medium-grain can work, but avoid long-grain as it’s too dry.
Eggs: Eggs add richness and a soft texture. Lightly scramble them in the pan before mixing with rice for the best results. You can skip or substitute with tofu for a vegan version.
Shiitake mushrooms: They bring umami and a meaty bite. Fresh ones are best, but dried shiitake (rehydrated) or button mushrooms can be good alternatives.
Vegetables: Carrots and green peas add sweetness and color. Frozen peas work well when fresh aren’t available. You can swap carrots for bell peppers or corn for different flavors.
Soy sauce: The main seasoning for that classic salty, umami taste. Use low-sodium if watching salt, or tamari for gluten-free needs.
Sesame oil (optional): It’s great for adding a nutty depth at the end of cooking. If you don’t have it, a touch of vegetable oil is fine.
How Can You Get Perfect Fried Rice Without It Turning Mushy?
Avoid mushy rice by using cooked rice that’s had time to cool and dry out a bit. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook rice a day before and refrigerate overnight.
- If cooking rice fresh, spread it on a tray to cool and dry for 30 minutes.
- When frying, use high heat and a wide pan or wok for even cooking.
- Don’t stir too often; let rice sit a bit so it can get a slight crisp on the bottom.
- Break up any clumps gently with your spatula to keep grains separate.
These small steps help ensure every bite is fluffy, slightly toasted, and full of flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick frying pan or wok – heats evenly and helps prevent rice from sticking while frying.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring and breaking up rice clumps without damaging the pan.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate soy sauce and seasoning amounts.
- Bowl – to beat the eggs before adding to the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork for more protein and a heartier meal.
- Use chopped kimchi for a spicy, tangy twist that adds vibrant flavor.
- Mix in corn, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Swap shiitake mushrooms for button or portobello mushrooms if you don’t have them on hand.
How to Make Japanese Fried Rice?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup diced shiitake mushrooms
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley or mitsuba (Japanese parsley) for garnish
Time You’ll Need:
Preparing this dish takes about 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes to cook. Using day-old rice saves cooking time and helps keep the rice fluffy when frying. Overall, you can enjoy your Japanese Fried Rice in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Dice the shiitake mushrooms and carrots into small pieces. Slice the green onions finely and set all aside.
2. Cook the vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and green peas. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until they become tender and aromatic.
3. Scramble the eggs
Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the remaining tablespoon of oil into the empty side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the oil and scramble them quickly until they’re just cooked but still soft.
4. Combine rice with eggs and vegetables
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Use a spatula to gently stir and mix the rice in with the eggs and vegetables. Break up any clumps of rice so the grains separate nicely.
5. Season and stir-fry
Drizzle the soy sauce evenly over the rice mixture. Stir-fry everything for another 2 to 3 minutes so the rice absorbs the flavors well. Season with salt and white pepper to your liking.
6. Add green onions and finish
Stir in the sliced green onions and cook for an additional minute for that fresh, mild onion flavor.
7. Serve and garnish
Turn off the heat and transfer the fried rice to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley or mitsuba to add a lovely touch of color and freshness.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Japanese Fried Rice hot. It’s perfect as a simple meal or side dish, packed with flavor and satisfying goodness. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Rice for Japanese Fried Rice?
Yes, frozen rice works well if you thaw it completely before cooking. Breaking up any clumps after thawing helps keep the rice fluffy when frying.
What Can I Substitute for Shiitake Mushrooms?
If you don’t have shiitake mushrooms, use button or cremini mushrooms instead. They’ll still add a nice earthy flavor to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Meat or Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork can make this fried rice a heartier meal. You can also toss in different veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra color and crunch.
