Published on

Omurice (オムライス) - Authentic Recipe Guide

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍱 About This Dish

Omurice, short for "omelette rice," is a popular yoshoku dish in Japan that combines Western omelette-making techniques with Japanese fried rice. This comforting and flavorful dish is a staple in Japanese home cooking and can be found in many family restaurants across the country. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1900s, influenced by Western cuisine but adapted to suit Japanese tastes.

🥢 Traditional Role

Omurice holds a special place in Japanese cuisine as a nostalgic comfort food that appeals to people of all ages. It is often served in family restaurants, cafes, and bento shops, making it a versatile and beloved dish for any time of day.

📝 Ingredients

  • Japanese Short-Grain Rice (米)
  • Chicken Breast (鶏肉)
  • Onion (玉ねぎ)
  • Frozen Peas and Carrots (冷凍のエンドウ豆と人参)
  • Ketchup (ケチャップ)
  • Salt (塩)
  • Black Pepper (こしょう)
  • Eggs (卵)
  • Butter (バター)
  • Chicken Stock (鶏がらスープ)

🔪 Kitchen Tools

  • Frying Pan
  • Rice Cooker
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spatula
  • Whisk

👨‍🍳 Preparation Steps

  1. Cook Japanese rice in a rice cooker.
  2. Dice chicken breast, onion, and any other vegetables you prefer.
  3. Heat oil in a frying pan, sauté the chicken until cooked through.
  4. Add diced onions, peas, and carrots to the pan and cook until softened.
  5. Add cooked rice to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix well.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with a splash of chicken stock.
  7. Heat butter in a clean pan, pour in the egg mixture, and cook until slightly runny.
  8. Place the fried rice on one half of the omelette, fold the other half over the rice.
  9. Slide the omurice onto a plate with the omelette on top.

🎯 Key Techniques

  • Ensuring the rice is not too wet to prevent a soggy texture.
  • Folding the omelette gently to create a smooth and fluffy exterior.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

🍶 Serving Suggestions

Serve Omurice with a drizzle of ketchup on top for a classic touch. Accompany it with a side salad or miso soup to balance out the flavors. Garnish with parsley or nori flakes for an authentic presentation.

💭 Chef's Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the fried rice mixture. Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like mushrooms, ham, or shrimp to suit your preferences.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Omurice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on a stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Enjoy the comforting and flavorful experience of making and savoring Omurice, a delightful fusion of Japanese and Western culinary influences.