Are you craving a comforting, quick meal that is both delicious and fun to make? This quick delicious Japanese omurice recipe is just what you need. Omurice, a combination of omelette and rice, is a beloved Japanese dish that wraps savory fried rice in a soft, fluffy omelette. The result is a dish that looks great and tastes even better — and you can make it in under 30 minutes!
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to prepare authentic omurice step by step. You’ll also find tips, variations, and answers to common questions to help you perfect your dish. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Omurice?
Omurice is a classic dish from Japan that blends Western and Japanese flavors. The name comes from the English words omelette and rice. In Japan, it’s considered “yoshoku,” which refers to Western-influenced Japanese cuisine.
This dish usually features fried rice cooked with chicken, onions, and ketchup, wrapped inside a fluffy omelette. It’s then topped with a drizzle of ketchup for both flavor and decoration. Omurice is popular in homes, restaurants, and even bento boxes because it’s simple, tasty, and visually appealing.
Ingredients for Quick Delicious Japanese Omurice
You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (cold or leftover rice works best)
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- ½ carrot, finely chopped
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (or you can use ham, shrimp, or tofu)
- 2–3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Omelette:
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional for creamier eggs)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Ketchup for drizzling
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Direction to Make this recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fried Rice
Sauté the Vegetables and Protein
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrot. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until softened. Then add cooked chicken (or your preferred protein) and stir for another minute.
Add the Rice and Seasonings
Add the cooked rice to the pan. Break up any lumps with a spatula and mix well with the vegetables and meat.
Pour in ketchup and soy sauce, mixing thoroughly so the rice is evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Once everything is heated through and combined, shape the rice into an oval mound and place it on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Omelette
Beat the Eggs
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Cook the Omelette
Melt butter in a clean, non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
Pour in the egg mixture and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.
As the eggs start to set, gently push the edges toward the center with a spatula, letting the uncooked egg flow to the sides.
When the omelette is mostly set but still slightly soft and creamy on top, remove it from the heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Omurice
Gently slide the omelette over the mound of fried rice on the plate.
Use a spatula or your hands (covered with a clean kitchen towel) to tuck the edges of the omelette under the rice.
Drizzle ketchup over the top in a zig-zag pattern and sprinkle with parsley or green onions if you like.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Omurice
Use Cold Rice
Cold, leftover rice is ideal for fried rice because it stays firm and doesn’t get mushy.
Don’t Overcook the Eggs
For a soft, creamy omelette, remove it from the heat while it’s still slightly runny in the middle.
Customize the Filling
You can swap chicken for shrimp, ham, beef, tofu, or just vegetables. Add peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 20–30 minutes, perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
Fun and Family-Friendly
Its cute look and sweet-savory taste make it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Versatile and Flexible
You can tailor it to your taste and what you have in the kitchen.
Delicious Variations
Cheese Omurice
Sprinkle shredded cheese on the rice before wrapping it in the omelette for a creamy surprise.
Spicy Omurice
Add chili sauce, hot ketchup, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
Curry Omurice
Replace ketchup in the rice with a spoonful of Japanese curry sauce for a rich, warm flavor.
How to Serve Omurice
Omurice is usually served as a main dish, but you can pair it with:
- A simple green salad with sesame dressing
- Miso soup
- Pickled vegetables
- A glass of cold iced tea or warm green tea
For bento boxes, you can make a smaller version of the dish, cut it in half, and pack it neatly with vegetables and fruits.
Storing and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover omurice tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the omurice with a damp paper towel and microwave for about 1–2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it’s warmed through without drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using freshly cooked, hot rice (it tends to stick and clump)
- Cooking the omelette too long (it becomes rubbery)
- Not seasoning the rice enough (taste and adjust as needed)
FAQs
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of cold rice?
Yes, but it may be stickier. If using fresh rice, let it cool for about 15–20 minutes first.
Can I make omurice without meat?
Of course! You can make it vegetarian by using tofu or just more vegetables.
Do I need milk for the eggs?
No, milk is optional. It makes the omelette creamier, but you can skip it if you prefer.
Can I make omurice with brown rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and gives a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
How can I make the omelette fluffier?
Beat the eggs thoroughly and cook them gently over medium-low heat. Don’t overcook — take them off the heat when they’re still slightly soft.
Related Recipes
- Thai Peanut Chicken Creamy Savory Recipe
- Creamy Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Salmon Recipe
- Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts Recipe
Final Thoughts
This quick delicious Japanese omurice recipe is the perfect combination of easy cooking and satisfying flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and less than half an hour, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
It’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes, whether you like it cheesy, spicy, or packed with vegetables. Fun, comforting, and visually appealing — omurice is sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab a pan, and bring a little taste of Japan into your kitchen today.
Quick Delicious Japanese Omurice Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice day-old preferred
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- ½ cup cooked chicken breast diced
- 2 tbsp ketchup plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter for frying rice
- 4 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp butter for omelet
- Chopped parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan, add onion and sauté until soft.
- Add chicken, then stir in rice and mix well.
- Season with ketchup, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for a few minutes until heated through, then shape into an oval mound on a plate.
- Beat eggs with milk and a pinch of salt.
- Heat butter in a clean non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Pour eggs in and gently stir with chopsticks until slightly runny.
- Shape into an oval and slide over the rice mound.
- Garnish with ketchup and parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for best texture and flavor.
- Swap chicken with ham or mushrooms for variation.
- Cook omelet gently to keep it soft and silky.
- Add a little cream or cheese to the egg mix for richness.