Fried Rice (Japanese)
Japanese Fried Rice is a flavorful and versatile dish featuring crispy rice, tender ham, and fragrant green onions. Egg scramble adds richness, while DASHI sauce enhances umami. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that can be customized with different meats or vegetables to suit any palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, 1 teaspoon DASHI sauce, sugar, and pepper until well blended.
- Heat a skillet, add sesame oil, and pour in the egg mixture.
- Scramble the eggs and remove from the skillet.
- Add vegetable oil to the hot skillet, then stir in green onion and the egg mixture.
- Add cooked rice and ham, and cook until crisp and hot.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons DASHI sauce and season with a little pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of soy sauce and the DASHI sauce. You can substitute ham with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein. Adding frozen peas or carrots can enhance the dish with more color and nutrition. Ensure your rice is cold and day-old for the best texture, similar to techniques used in Fried Rice (Chinese).
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fried rice hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with sweet and sour ribs or can be enjoyed as a standalone meal. A side of pickled vegetables can also complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can stir-fry it again in a skillet to revive the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Rice (Japanese) contains roughly 442 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1298mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option. Just be aware that it may require a bit more cooking time and can alter the texture slightly. Make sure the brown rice is cooked and cooled before adding it to the stir-fry for best results.
What if I don't have DASHI sauce?
If you don't have DASHI sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing a bit of soy sauce with water and a touch of fish sauce or miso paste. This will provide a similar umami flavor profile to your fried rice.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this fried rice vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also add tofu for protein, ensuring a satisfying meal without meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).