How to Make Hamachi Fish Fried Rice That’s Better Than Takeout: Ultimate Recipe

by Oleg Nikitenko November 12, 2024

Hamachi Fish Fried Rice Recipe

Hamachi, also known as Japanese yellowtail, is a versatile fish known for its rich, buttery texture and mild, sweet flavor. When combined with fried rice, Hamachi adds a depth of flavor and luxurious taste that turns a simple meal into something extraordinary. This recipe for Hamachi fish fried rice is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their home-cooked meals with a healthy, delicious dish that’s better than takeout.

For more delicious seafood recipes and cooking tutorials, visit our YouTube Channel , where we share tips and tricks to make cooking with seafood easy and enjoyable.

Why Hamachi Fish Is Perfect for Fried Rice

Hamachi’s high-fat content gives it a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs well with the savory flavors of fried rice. Unlike leaner fish, which can dry out quickly when cooked, Hamachi remains moist, allowing it to blend seamlessly with rice, vegetables, and seasonings. Hamachi is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins like B12 and D, making it a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has praised Hamachi, saying, “Hamachi’s richness and delicate flavor make it ideal for both raw and cooked dishes, where it absorbs flavors beautifully without losing its character.”

Ingredients for Hamachi Fish Fried Rice

To create the best Hamachi fried rice, gather these fresh ingredients and follow the steps below for a quick, flavorful meal.

For the Fried Rice:

  • 1 lb sushi-grade Hamachi, cut into small cubes
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or sushi rice, day-old for best texture
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

For Serving:

  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced avocado (optional)
  • Extra soy sauce or chili oil, for added flavor

For premium Hamachi, explore these options at Global Seafoods:

Step-By-Step Recipe for Hamachi Fish Fried Rice

This step-by-step guide will help you make Hamachi fried rice with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 1: Prepare the Hamachi and Rice

  1. Cut and Season the Hamachi: Dice the Hamachi into small, bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Use Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice, as it’s less sticky and more likely to separate into individual grains when cooked. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook fresh rice and let it cool completely.

Pro Tip: Use jasmine or short-grain sushi rice for the best texture. Day-old rice helps absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Hamachi

  1. Heat Oil in a Wok or Skillet: In a large wok or non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Hamachi Quickly: Add the cubed Hamachi to the hot oil and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the outside is lightly seared. Remove the Hamachi from the pan and set aside.

Chef’s Tip: Avoid overcooking the Hamachi; a quick sear is all it needs to stay tender and flavorful in the fried rice.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

  1. Add Aromatics: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add Mixed Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until they are tender.

Flavor Tip: Add a splash of soy sauce to the vegetables as they cook to infuse them with extra flavor.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

  1. Push Vegetables to the Side: Move the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pan to make room for the eggs.
  2. Cook the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared side of the pan, scrambling them gently until they are fully cooked. Once cooked, mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetables.

Chef’s Tip: Scrambling the eggs separately helps them retain their fluffy texture, adding a nice contrast to the fried rice.

Step 5: Add Rice and Seasonings

  1. Add the Rice: Break up any clumps in the rice and add it to the pan with the vegetables and eggs.
  2. Season with Sauces: Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce over the rice, stirring well to coat every grain. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Consistency Tip: Toss the rice continuously to ensure even seasoning and prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Hamachi and Finish the Dish

  1. Return Hamachi to the Pan: Gently fold the cooked Hamachi back into the rice mixture, being careful not to break up the pieces.
  2. Garnish: Top the fried rice with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Presentation Tip: Serve your Hamachi fried rice with lime wedges and sliced avocado for a fresh, colorful garnish that complements the dish.

Flavor Variations for Hamachi Fish Fried Rice

Customize your Hamachi fried rice with these delicious variations:

1. Spicy Hamachi Fried Rice

Add 1–2 teaspoons of chili paste or Sriracha to the rice for a spicy kick. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

2. Hamachi Fried Rice with Pineapple

For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple to the rice for a sweet and tangy contrast. Pineapple pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of Hamachi.

3. Miso-Ginger Hamachi Fried Rice

Add 1 tablespoon of white miso paste and a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the sautéed onions for a unique umami flavor that enhances the dish’s depth.

Each variation brings a new layer of flavor to the Hamachi fried rice, making it adaptable for various tastes and occasions.

Health Benefits of Hamachi Fish

Hamachi is not only flavorful but also loaded with essential nutrients that support overall health:

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Known for their role in supporting heart health and reducing inflammation, omega-3s are abundant in Hamachi.
  • High-Quality Protein: Hamachi provides lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair, immune function, and energy.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: This fish is rich in B vitamins, especially B12, and essential minerals like selenium, which aids in immune health and antioxidant support.

According to the American Heart Association, including fatty fish like Hamachi in your diet twice a week can lower the risk of heart disease and support brain health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hamachi Fish Fried Rice

Q: Can I use frozen Hamachi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen Hamachi works well. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cutting it into cubes, and pat it dry to remove any excess moisture.

Q: What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine rice or short-grain sushi rice is best. They provide the ideal texture and absorb flavors without clumping.

Q: Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos are another option, adding a slightly sweeter taste.

Conclusion: Enjoy Flavorful, Homemade Hamachi Fried Rice

Hamachi fish fried rice is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together the savory flavors of fried rice with the delicate, buttery texture of Hamachi. Perfect for quick dinners, this recipe offers a flavorful, healthy meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, Hamachi fried rice provides a takeout-quality experience from the comfort of home.

Ready to cook? Visit Global Seafoods to order high-quality Hamachi, and check out our YouTube Channel for more seafood recipes and cooking tips.

Back to Recipes
Go to full site