Classic Japanese Omuraisu (Omelette Rice) Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked Japanese short-grain rice
2 chicken thighs, cut into small pieces
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1/4 cup of ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste
4 eggs
2 tablespoons of milk
2 tablespoons of butter
Additional ketchup for serving

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until they become soft.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until they are no longer pink.
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Add the ketchup to the pan and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the rice mixture aside in a warm place.
In a bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk. Mix well.
Heat the butter in a separate, non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour half of the egg mixture into the pan and swirl to cover the surface.
When the egg is half cooked, place half of the rice mixture in the middle of the egg. Fold the sides of the egg over the rice to create an omelette shape.
Slide the omelette onto a plate, with the seam side down. Repeat steps 6-8 for the second serving.
Drizzle additional ketchup on top of each omelette before serving.

Tools for making

Frying pan - A medium-sized pan for cooking the chicken, vegetables, and rice mixture.
Non-stick frying pan - A separate pan for cooking the omelette part of the dish.
Bowl - A bowl for beating the eggs and mixing them with milk.
Spatula - Used for stirring the rice mixture and flipping the omelette.
Knife - For chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Whisk or fork - To beat the eggs and milk together.
Plate - For serving the finished omelettes.

Recipe variations

Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a seafood or vegetarian option.
Add diced carrots, peas, or corn for a colorful vegetable medley.
Replace ketchup with tomato sauce or curry sauce for different flavor profiles.
Include diced ham or bacon for a smoky twist.
Add a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost.
Try using different types of rice such as jasmine rice or brown rice.
Incorporate other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for added depth of flavor.
Top the omuraisu with shredded cheese for a cheesy variation.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, thyme, or cumin to enhance the taste.
For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the rice mixture.

Recipe overview

Omuraisu, or Japanese Omelette Rice, is a popular and colorful Japanese dish that combines Western influence with traditional Japanese cooking. This delectable fusion cuisine is easy to prepare and is perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner. The recipe involves a deliciously seasoned fried rice packed with chicken and vegetables, all encased in a softly cooked omelette. The dish is finished off with a ketchup drizzle, adding a tangy sweetness that brings all the flavors together. With this recipe, you'll get step-by-step instructions on how to perfectly wrap the flavorful rice with the silky omelette for a dish that not only tastes good but also looks impressive. Enjoy the process of making Omuraisu and savor the delightful fusion of flavors it offers.

Common questions

Can I use long-grain rice instead of Japanese short-grain rice? No, it is recommended to use Japanese short-grain rice for the best texture and stickiness in the Omuraisu.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein? Yes, you can use other proteins such as beef, shrimp, or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
Can I use other vegetables in the recipe? Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Popular additions include carrots, peas, and corn.
Can I use a different sauce instead of ketchup? While ketchup is traditional for Omuraisu, you can experiment with other sauces like tomato sauce or Worcestershire sauce to customize the flavor.
Can I make the omelette without folding it over the rice? Yes, you can make a simple omelette and serve it alongside the rice instead of folding it over.
Can I make the recipe in advance? It is best to serve Omuraisu immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture.
Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste? Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or ketchup according to your preference.
Can I make Omuraisu vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable oil instead of butter to make a vegetarian version. To make it vegan, also substitute the eggs with an egg substitute or tofu scramble.

Serving dishes and utensils

Frying pan - For cooking the chicken, vegetables, and rice.
Non-stick frying pan - For cooking the omelette.
Bowl - For beating the eggs and mixing with the milk.
Plate - For serving the omelette.
Whisk or fork - For beating the eggs and mixing with the milk.

Origin stories

Omuraisu, or omurice, is a popular Japanese dish that is said to have originated from a western-style restaurant in Tokyo's Ginza district around the turn of the 20th century. It's a quintessential example of "yoshoku"—a style of Western-influenced cooking which arose during the Meiji Restoration. The name "omuraisu" is a fusion of the words "omelette" and "rice", which succinctly describes this comforting dish. Despite its Western influences, omuraisu has become a homey staple in Japan, often appearing in home cooking and even in school lunch boxes. A favorite amongst children and adults alike, it has also made frequent appearances in Japanese manga and anime, further cementing its status in Japanese pop culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.