Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet) is a delightful dish that combines fluffy eggs with savory ketchup fried rice. This comforting meal is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be enjoyed by all ages. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, omurice is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With just 20 minutes from start to finish, omurice is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend brunch.
• Flavorful Comfort Food – The combination of seasoned rice and creamy eggs creates a satisfying dish that warms the heart.
• Versatile Meal Option – Enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, light lunch, or even as a dinner option; omurice fits any mealtime perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking omurice even easier. Gather these essentials before you start preparing your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet – Ensures that the omelet cooks evenly without sticking, making it easier to slide onto your plate.
• Spatula – Perfect for gently folding ingredients and serving without damaging the omelet’s structure.

Ingredients

Omurice or Japanese rice omelet is made with ketchup fried rice that is then topped with a softly scrambled fluffy egg omelet. This simple yet addicting omurice recipe is the most delicious comfort dish.

For the Rice Filling

• 1/4 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6-8 oz chicken thighs (about 2 boneless skinless and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 3 brown mushrooms (diced)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (day old)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Omelet

• 6 large eggs (divided)
• 2 tablespoons milk (divided)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)

For Garnish

• Ketchup (for serving)
• 1 tbsp parsley (minced for serving)

this recipe

How to Make Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Filling

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in chicken thighs, cooking until browned.
4. Add mixed vegetables and mushrooms; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked rice, ketchup, soy sauce, and season with salt. Stir well until heated through.

Step 2: Make the Omelet

1. In a bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.
2. In the same skillet used for the rice filling, reduce heat to low.
3. Pour in the egg mixture; gently swirl to coat the pan evenly.
4. Cook until edges are set but center remains slightly runny.

Step 3: Assemble the Omurice

1. Spoon the rice filling onto one half of the omelet in the skillet.
2. Carefully fold the other half over the filling using a spatula.
3. Slide onto plates; garnish with additional ketchup and minced parsley before serving.

Now you have a delicious plate of omurice ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

Omurice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of options to enhance this delightful meal.

Classic Ketchup Drizzle

• A generous drizzle of ketchup on top adds a tangy sweetness that complements the flavors of the rice and eggs perfectly.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Sprinkle minced parsley or green onions on top for an added touch of freshness and color.

Side Salad

• A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the omurice.

Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with a small dish of pickled vegetables to provide a crunchy contrast and enhance the dish’s umami flavors.

Soy Sauce Touch

• A few drops of soy sauce can elevate the umami taste, making each bite even more savory.

Fried Egg Variation

• For an extra indulgent treat, top your omurice with a sunny-side-up egg for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

Creating the perfect omurice requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure yours turns out just right.

• Use day-old rice: This is less sticky and fries better than freshly cooked rice, helping to achieve that perfect texture.
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure chicken pieces are fully cooked before adding other ingredients for safety and flavor.
• Scramble eggs gently: Cook eggs on low heat and stir gently for a fluffy omelet that wraps your rice beautifully.
• Season well: Don’t forget to season your fried rice with enough salt and ketchup for rich flavor throughout.
• Keep it warm: Serve omurice immediately after cooking so that it’s warm and comforting when you eat it.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other proteins or veggies as per your taste preferences for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

Pairing omurice with delicious sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Miso Soup: A traditional Japanese soup made with miso paste, providing warmth and depth alongside your meal.
2. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft omelet.
3. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, this salad offers a delightful balance to the savory omurice.
4. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt make for an easy, nutritious side packed with protein.
5. Seaweed Salad: A refreshing salad made from wakame seaweed dressed in sesame oil adds unique flavors and textures.
6. Pickled Ginger: The sharpness of pickled ginger cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making omurice can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin this delightful dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the day-old rice: Using fresh rice can make your omurice mushy. Day-old rice has a firmer texture, which helps it fry better.
• Overcooking the eggs: A key feature of omurice is its fluffy omelet topping. Cook the eggs over low heat and remove them from the heat while still slightly undercooked for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Omurice requires balanced flavors. Don’t skimp on salt or other seasonings like soy sauce and ketchup, as these enhance the overall taste.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Chopping vegetables and chicken into even sizes ensures they cook uniformly. Take the time to prepare ingredients properly to avoid undercooked bits.
• Using low-quality ketchup: The flavor of ketchup is essential in this dish. Opt for a good quality ketchup that you enjoy eating on its own for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store omurice in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

• Place omurice in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place omurice in an oven-safe dish, and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion of omurice to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and warm the omurice, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)?

Omurice is a Japanese comfort food consisting of fried rice cooked with ketchup, wrapped in a soft omelet. It’s often garnished with more ketchup on top.

How do I make my Omurice fluffier?

To achieve fluffier omelets, whisk eggs with milk thoroughly and cook them over low heat until just set. This technique keeps them soft and airy.

Can I customize my Omurice?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or include various vegetables such as bell peppers or peas based on your preference.

Is Omurice suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Omurice stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just reheat when ready to eat!

What sides go well with Omurice?

Omurice pairs beautifully with light salads or pickled vegetables. These sides help balance out the rich flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This omurice recipe showcases an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any meal of the day. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether you want it spicier or loaded with veggies. Give this comforting Japanese rice omelet a try; you’ll find it’s hard not to love!

Print

Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)

---

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Omurice, or Japanese Rice Omelet, is a delightful fusion of fluffy eggs and savory ketchup-fried rice. This comforting dish is perfect for any meal—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—and appeals to all ages. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, omurice stands out as a family favorite that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can create an impressive plate that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it with a drizzle of ketchup and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for the ultimate comfort food experience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/4 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6–8 oz chicken thighs (bite-sized pieces)
• 1/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 cups cooked white rice (day-old)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (for the rice)
• additional ketchup (for garnish)
• Salt
• Milk

---

Instructions

1. In a non-stick skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add chicken and cook until browned.
2. Stir in mixed vegetables, then add the cooked rice, ketchup, soy sauce, and season with salt. Mix well until heated through.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs with milk and salt. Pour into the same skillet over low heat until edges are set but center is slightly runny.
4. Spoon the rice filling onto one half of the omelet, fold it over carefully using a spatula, and serve garnished with ketchup and parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 330mg

Keywords: Use day-old rice for optimal texture; it fries better than fresh rice. Experiment with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences to customize your dish.