Authentic Benihana Fried Rice
User Reviews
5
Authentic Benihana Fried Rice
Description
Authentic Benihana Fried Rice starts with freshly cooked white rice that is cooled thoroughly to prevent clumping and maintain texture. Meanwhile, sesame seeds are toasted in the oven until golden to bring out their nutty flavor. Vegetables like onion, carrot, and scallion are sautéed in butter to soften and develop sweetness. Separately, eggs are scrambled gently and combined with the vegetables and rice in a hot skillet or wok. Garlic-infused butter is added to impart its signature aroma and richness. The fried rice is seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper, balancing savory and aromatic elements. The finished dish has a slightly crisp texture with distinct layers of flavor from toasted sesame, garlic butter, and fresh vegetables.
This rice pairs well as a side for grilled meats or seafood and can be served as a main course. It works well for family meals or casual gatherings when a flavorful rice dish is desired.
For the best results, use chilled rice to avoid mushiness and do not skip the garlic butter, which defines the dish's authentic flavor. Safflower oil may be used for frying due to its neutral taste and high smoke point, matching the original restaurant method.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 1 cup carrot chopped
- 2/3 cup scallion chopped; aka green onion
- 3 tablespoons butter with garlic
- 5 egg beaten
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cook the rice in the water according to package directions. For best results, spread the cooked rice in a shallow metal pan and stick it in the freezer to cool quickly. Do not let it freeze, though. If you don’t have time to chill the rice, just spread it out so it cools completely.
- While the rice is cooking and cooling, spread the sesame seeds in a shallow baking pan. Bake until golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes, shaking pan occasionally for even color. Remove from the oven.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet. Add the onions, carrots, and scallions. Cook, stirring from time to time, until the onions are translucent. Remove from the heat and set aside. Heat another large skillet or a wok if you have one. Add a splash of oil and swirl it around. Pour the eggs into the hot skillet. Cook as you would scrambled eggs. When the eggs are barely done, add the vegetables, rice, 2 tablespoons of the garlic butter (you can add more if desired) and sesame seeds and sprinkle with the soy sauce. Stir-fry until everything is mixed and hot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use day-old, chilled rice or thoroughly cooled rice spread on a baking sheet to prevent mushiness.
- Do not skip the garlic butter; it's key to the authentic Benihana flavor.
- Safflower oil is recommended for stir-frying because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 530 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 530kcal | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 48g | 16% |
| Protein | 14g | 28% |
| Fat | 31g | 48% |
| Saturated Fat | 16g | 80% |
| Cholesterol | 264mg | 88% |
| Sodium | 1570mg | 65% |
| Potassium | 411mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 6510IU | 130% |
| Vitamin C | 8mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 149mg | 15% |
| Iron | 3.2mg | 18% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.