benihana chicken fried rice recipe
Standing in front of the sizzling Benihana grill, I was amazed by the chefs’ skill. The smell of garlic, soy, and fried rice was incredible. I knew I had to learn how to make their famous chicken fried rice at home.
If you love benihana chicken fried rice recipe rice as much as I do, you’re in for a treat. In this article, I’ll show you how to make a benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home. You’ll be able to impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes just like Benihana’s.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways for benihana chicken fried rice recipe
- Learn the secrets to achieving Benihana-style fried rice at home
- Discover the importance of using day-old rice and the right cooking techniques
- Understand the role of garlic butter in enhancing the flavor
- Explore ways to customize the recipe with your preferred protein and vegetables
- Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality fried rice dish
Understanding the Magic of Benihana-Style Fried Rice
Benihana’s fried rice is a favorite dish that has won many hearts. It’s known for its unique taste and the showy hibachi-style cooking. To get the full story, let’s look into its history and the special ingredients and techniques used.
History of Hibachi-Style Cooking
Hibachi cooking comes from Japan and involves grilling over hot charcoal. Today, Benihana uses flat iron griddles or teppanyaki grills. But, the roots go back to ancient times and a small, portable charcoal grill called a hibachi.
What Makes Benihana Rice Special
The secret to Benihana’s fried rice is in its mix of ingredients and how it’s made. The rice is cooked with garlic butter, soy sauce, and other seasonings. This makes the dish full of flavor. The high-heat cooking at Benihana’s tables also makes the rice crispy and caramelized, making it stand out.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Servings per Benihana chicken fried rice recipe | 8 |
| Calories per serving | 370 |
| Calories per authentic Benihana fried rice serving | 523 |
| Preparation time | 35 minutes |
| Cooking time | 15 minutes |
“The magic of Benihana’s fried rice comes from its meticulously selected ingredients and precise cooking techniques.”
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Results
To get the signature flavor and texture of Benihana-style fried rice, start with the right ingredients. The secret to making authentic Benihana fried rice at home is using top-quality, fresh parts. These ingredients work together to give you that beloved, homemade taste.
The essential ingredients for an authentic Benihana fried rice recipe include:
- Day-old, chilled rice: This is key for the perfect fried rice texture.
- Garlic butter compound: This flavorful butter blend is Benihana’s secret.
- Soy sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth and umami notes.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs are a must, adding richness and texture.
- Protein: Chicken is classic, but you can also use shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and scallions (green onions) are essential.
- Sesame oil: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil adds a fragrant, nutty flavor.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and other spices can be adjusted to taste.
By mixing the right Benihana fried rice ingredients and authentic fried rice techniques, you can make this beloved Japanese-American dish at home.
“The secret to making great fried rice is all in the preparation of the ingredients. High-quality, fresh components are key to achieving an authentic Benihana-style result.”
The Secret Behind Benihana’s Signature Garlic Butter
Benihana’s garlic butter is key to their famous fried rice. It’s made with softened butter, minced garlic, and a bit of light soy sauce. This mix gives their fried rice its unique taste and smell.
How to Make Garlic Butter Compound
To make Benihana’s garlic butter at home, start by softening unsalted butter. Then, mince or grate fresh garlic cloves until you have about 1-2 teaspoons per 1/2 cup of butter. Finally, add a splash of light soy sauce and mix until it’s all combined.
Storage and Usage Tips
- Store the garlic butter compound in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal flavor and freshness.
- Use the garlic butter to toss with freshly cooked rice, as a topping for grilled or roasted meats, or as a dip for warm bread.
- The garlic butter can also be frozen for longer-term storage, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Learning to make Benihana’s signature Benihana garlic butter is the key to making their famous fried rice at home. This versatile compound can make any dish taste amazing with the flavors of homemade garlic butter.
Choosing and Preparing the Right Rice
Choosing the right rice is key to making perfect fried rice. Benihana, a famous Japanese steakhouse, knows this secret. They use special rice selection and preparation.
For the best fried rice, use day-old, chilled rice. This keeps the grains separate. Medium-grain white rice like Calrose is common in hibachi places. But long-grain varieties like Jasmine are great for home cooking.
Before cooking, rinse the rice well. This step reduces starch and prevents stickiness. After cooking, spread the rice on a baking sheet. Then, refrigerate or freeze it to cool it down fast. This makes it ready for the best rice for fried rice preparation.
“The key to perfect fried rice is using the right rice, and that means day-old, cold rice that’s been rinsed to remove excess starch.”
- Use medium-grain white rice like Calrose or long-grain varieties like Jasmine.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to reduce stickiness.
- Spread cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate or freeze to cool it quickly.
By following these tips, you can make Benihana’s famous fried rice in your kitchen.
Selecting the Best Cooking Equipment
Creating the perfect Benihana-style fried rice at home starts with the right cooking tools. A traditional wok is the top choice, thanks to its even heat and control. But, other options can also give great results.
Wok vs. Regular Pan Options
A carbon steel wok is the best for wok cooking and getting that Benihana taste and texture. Its shape and materials help with heat spread, making your food sear and caramelize well. If you don’t have a wok, a big, heavy-bottomed pan, cast-iron skillet, or Dutch oven works too. They can also handle the high heat needed for fried rice.
Temperature Control Techniques
It doesn’t matter what fried rice equipment you use, keeping the right temperature is key. Start with very high heat for a great sear, then adjust to avoid burning. Getting this balance right is what makes your fried rice taste like it’s from a restaurant.
“The secret to Benihana-style fried rice is all in the technique – high heat, constant motion, and a little bit of showmanship.”
Complete Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Want to make Benihana chicken fried rice at home? This easy recipe lets you do just that. Impress your loved ones with the real Benihana taste and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 9 cups of cooked Botan Calrose rice (preferably leftover from the day before)
- 1/4 cup of safflower oil
- 3/4 cup of grated carrots
- 3/4 cup of minced onion
- Sliced green onions (amount not specified)
- 4 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the cubed chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a skillet, melt 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter over medium heat.Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until aromatic, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat 1/4 cup of safflower oil over high heat. Add the cooked rice, grated carrots, and minced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened.
- Push the rice mixture to the sides of the skillet, creating a well in the center. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the well and scramble them, incorporating them into the rice mixture as they cook.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with 1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or to taste). Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
- Serve the Benihana chicken fried rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions. Enjoy this delicious homemade version of the Benihana classic!
This recipe makes about 8 servings of benihana chicken fried rice recipe and homemade hibachi rice. You can adjust the amounts to fit your needs or the number of guests.
Key Vegetable Preparation Steps for benihana chicken fried rice recipe
To make perfect Benihana-style fried rice at home, focus on vegetable prep. Start by finely dicing onions, carrots, and green onions. This ensures even cooking and a uniform texture in your dish.
Make sure your vegetable pieces are all about the same size. This helps them cook evenly. You can also add frozen peas for extra flavor and color.
It’s crucial to cook the veggies separately before mixing them with rice. This way, each part stays at its best texture. It prevents the veggies from getting too soft or mushy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Onion | ⅓ cup, finely diced |
| Carrot | ⅓ cup, finely diced |
| Green Onions | ⅓ cup, sliced |
| Frozen Peas (optional) | As desired |
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to making authentic Benihana fried rice at home.
Protein Preparation and Cooking Techniques
To make authentic Benihana-style fried rice, preparing and cooking the protein is key. The recipe uses tender, flavorful chicken as the main protein. It’s important to marinate the chicken to get the right texture and taste.
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into small pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of white pepper, and a drizzle of oil. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the fridge. This step helps the chicken soak up flavors and stay juicy while cooking.
Proper Cooking Temperature
After marinating, it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it’s hot. Add a tablespoon of oil and carefully add the marinated chicken. Cook, stirring often, until it’s just done, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to add back to the fried rice later.
The secret to great protein in Benihana-style fried rice is marinating the chicken and cooking it right. By following these steps, you’ll get tender, flavorful chicken that complements the dish perfectly.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 300g (10.5oz) |
| Soy Sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| White Pepper | 1 sprinkle |
| Vegetable Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Mastering the Cooking Process
To make perfect Benihana-style fried rice at home, you need to learn the fried rice cooking technique and hibachi cooking process. By following a few steps, you can make it just like the restaurants in your kitchen.
Begin by scrambling eggs in a hot wok or cast-iron skillet. Once they’re done, take them out and set them aside. Then, add your chopped veggies and stir-fry them until they’re tender-crisp. This keeps their color and texture bright.
- Put the cold, cooked rice into the hot pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. This ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from getting soggy.
- Add your garlic butter compound and let it melt and sizzle, coating the rice evenly.
- Finally, add the cooked protein, like chicken, shrimp, or fried tofu, and gently toss everything together until heated through.
The secret to perfect fried rice cooking technique is to cook in small batches and keep the heat high. This prevents the rice from getting too crowded and steaming instead of frying. Being patient and stirring constantly is key to getting the Benihana texture and flavor right.
To make the hibachi cooking process even better, drizzle a bit of soy sauce into the hot pan and let it sizzle before mixing it into the rice. This adds a deep, umami-rich flavor to the dish.
“The secret to Benihana-style fried rice lies in the combination of high heat, constant stirring, and the perfect balance of seasonings.”
By learning these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to making the iconic Benihana fried rice at home. With a bit of practice, you’ll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.
Expert Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
Making delicious fried rice at home like Benihana’s might seem hard. However, with proper techniques and attention, it’s entirely achievable.Here are some expert tips to make your fried rice and hibachi-style cooking amazing.
- Start with Cold, Day-Old Rice: Cold, day-old rice is key to avoiding mushy fried rice. Its dry texture fries up perfectly.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Don’t fill your wok or pan too much. Too much food steams instead of fries, making it soggy.
- Break Up Rice Clumps: Before adding rice to the pan, break up any big clumps. This helps the rice cook evenly.
- Choose the Right Oil: Use a neutral oil like safflower or canola. It prevents your fried rice from burning or getting too oily.
- Layer Flavors: Add soy sauce, white pepper, or spices in layers. This builds flavors that blend well.
- Let Soy Sauce Sizzle: When adding soy sauce, let it sizzle and reduce. This concentrates the flavor and cuts down moisture.
Follow these tips to make fried rice and hibachi-style dishes that are as good as the best. Enjoy the tasty results of your new cooking skills!
“The secret to perfect fried rice is all in the technique. With a few simple tricks, you can elevate your homemade fried rice to restaurant-quality status.” – Hibachi Chef, Benihana
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To bring the Benihana dining experience home, serve your fried rice with green onions, shrimp or salmon, and grilled veggies. This adds color, texture, and boosts the flavor.
Traditional Accompaniments
For a real Benihana feel, add yum yum sauce to your fried rice. This creamy sauce matches the rice’s savory taste, making the meal complete.
Presentation Tips
Use a large plate or shallow bowl to display your fried rice. Top it with green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful, authentic look.
FAQ for benihana chicken fried rice recipe
What is the history of hibachi-style cooking?
Hibachi cooking is a traditional Japanese method. It uses grilling over high-heat charcoal. Today, it’s done with flat iron griddles or teppanyaki grills.
What makes benihana chicken fried rice recipe special?
Benihana’s fried rice is special because of its unique mix of ingredients. It includes garlic butter and special cooking techniques. This makes the dish flavorful and well-balanced.
What are the key ingredients in Benihana-style fried rice?
The main ingredients are day-old rice, garlic butter, and soy sauce. It also has eggs, chicken, and vegetables like onions and carrots. Sesame oil and seasonings add extra flavor. You can also add different proteins or veggies.
How do you make the signature Benihana garlic butter?
To make Benihana’s garlic butter, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and light soy sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It tastes best in the first week.
What type of rice works best for Benihana-style fried rice?
Medium-grain white rice, like Calrose, is common in hibachi restaurants. But, long-grain varieties like Jasmine are good for home cooking. It’s important to use day-old, chilled rice for the right texture.
What cooking equipment is best for making Benihana fried rice?
A carbon steel wok is best for high-heat cooking. But, you can also use a large pan, cast iron skillet, or Dutch oven. Keeping the temperature right is key.
How do you prepare the vegetables for Benihana-style fried rice?
Dice onions, carrots, and green onions finely. Cook them separately before adding to the rice. This ensures they’re cooked right and don’t get mushy.
How should the chicken be prepared for the fried rice?
Marinate chicken cubes in soy sauce, salt, white pepper, and oil. Cook them at high heat until just done. Then, set them aside. You can also use shrimp or beef.
What are the key steps in the Benihana fried rice cooking process?
Cook ingredients in stages. Scramble eggs first, then cook vegetables. Next, add rice. Finally, add garlic butter and cooked protein. Use high heat and stir constantly to prevent sticking.
What are some expert tips for achieving restaurant-quality Benihana fried rice at home?
Use cold, day-old rice to avoid mushiness. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Break up rice clumps before cooking. Let soy sauce sizzle in the pan before mixing with rice. This concentrates flavor and reduces moisture.
What are some traditional accompaniments and serving suggestions for Benihana fried rice?
Serve fried rice with sliced green onions, hibachi-style proteins like shrimp or salmon, and grilled vegetables. Pair it with yum yum sauce for a real hibachi taste. Serve on a large plate or in a bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions for a nice look.
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