Savory Japanese Garlic Fried Rice for Cozy Nights In Recipe

Introduction

This savory Japanese garlic fried rice is a comforting dish perfect for cozy nights in. Creamy with a subtle umami kick, it’s simple to make and irresistibly flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Japanese short grain rice (rinsed and soaked)
• 3 tablespoons Japanese ‘Kewpie’ mayonnaise (adds creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami depth)
• 2 large eggs (lightly whisked)
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Sea salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice under running water, then soak it for 30 minutes. Drain and combine with fresh water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: Transfer the warm rice to a large bowl and gently fold in the Kewpie mayonnaise until evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: Heat the unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the seasoned rice to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Pour in the soy sauce and mix well to combine.
5. Step 5: Create some space in the pan, pour in the whisked eggs, and let them set for about 30 seconds. Scramble the eggs gently and mix them thoroughly into the rice.
6. Step 6: Season the dish with sea salt to taste and toss with finely chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old rice if you prefer a drier fried rice texture that’s easier to stir-fry without clumping.
• Substitute Kewpie mayonnaise with regular mayonnaise if unavailable, though Kewpie adds a more authentic creaminess.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end of cooking.
• Add diced vegetables like green onions or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Storage

Store any leftover garlic fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive moisture. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

While Japanese short grain rice works best for its sticky texture, you can use medium grain rice as a substitute. Long grain rice may result in a less cohesive dish.

Is Kewpie mayonnaise necessary in this recipe?

Kewpie mayonnaise adds a unique creaminess and mild tang that elevates the flavor. If you don’t have it, regular mayonnaise can be used, though the taste will be slightly different.

Savory Japanese Garlic Fried Rice for Cozy Nights In Recipe

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4.6 from 149 reviews

This Savory Japanese Garlic Fried Rice recipe combines fragrant garlic, creamy Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise, and umami-rich soy sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for cozy nights in. Using Japanese short grain rice ensures a sticky, satisfying texture, while a touch of butter and fresh parsley adds richness and freshness to every bite.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Seasonings

• 2 cups Japanese short grain rice (rinsed and soaked)
• 1.5 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami depth)
• sea salt (to taste)

Flavorings and Garnish

• 3 tablespoons Japanese ‘Kewpie’ mayonnaise (adds creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley (for garnish)
• 2 large eggs (lightly whisked)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the Japanese short grain rice under running water until the water runs clear, then soak it for 30 minutes. Drain the rice and add it to a saucepan with fresh water. Bring it to a boil, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes until the rice is tender but slightly firm. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for another 10 minutes to finish steaming.
2. Mix in Mayonnaise: Transfer the warm cooked rice to a large bowl. Gently fold in the Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise to coat the rice evenly, adding a rich, creamy texture that enhances flavor and moisture.
3. Sauté Garlic: Heat the unsalted butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing its savory aroma.
4. Stir-fry the Rice: Add the seasoned rice mixture to the pan with the garlic. Stir-fry the rice for 30 seconds to incorporate the flavors and evenly heat it through.
5. Add Soy Sauce: Pour the soy sauce over the rice and continue stirring to evenly coat the grains, enhancing the umami depth of the dish.
6. Cook the Eggs: Push the rice to the side of the pan to create space. Pour the lightly whisked eggs into the cleared area, allowing them to set for about 30 seconds. Scramble the eggs gently and then mix them thoroughly into the rice, creating tender, fluffy pieces throughout.
7. Season and Garnish: Season the garlic fried rice with sea salt to taste. Toss in the finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately while warm for a cozy meal.

Notes

• Using Japanese short grain rice provides the best sticky texture characteristic of this dish.
• Soaking the rice before cooking ensures even cooking and better texture.
• Kewpie mayonnaise adds a unique creaminess different from regular mayonnaise.
• Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
• This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated and gently reheated.

Keywords: Japanese garlic fried rice, Kewpie mayonnaise rice, savory fried rice, easy Japanese recipe, garlic butter rice