Description
This authentic Japanese fried rice (Chahan) is a simple yet flavorful dish made with short-grain rice, eggs, vegetables, and savory seasonings. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a delicious side dish to complement your favorite Japanese recipes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup cooked diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin (optional for added sweetness)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp butter (for extra flavor, optional)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp pickled red ginger (beni shoga) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure the rice is cool and loosened. Chop the vegetables and protein of choice.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable or sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the oil to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just set, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add onions and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the Rice & Protein: Increase the heat to high, then add the rice and any cooked protein. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring even distribution.
- Season: Add soy sauce, mirin, salt, and white pepper, mixing well to coat the rice evenly.
- Combine Everything: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add green onions, and stir to combine.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in butter for extra richness, then garnish with sesame seeds and pickled ginger. Serve hot!
Notes
- Best Rice: Use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice can be sticky and clumpy.
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu for variety.
- Flavor Boost: A small amount of oyster sauce or dashi powder can enhance the umami flavor.
- Serving Tip: Serve alongside miso soup or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg