Name: Japanese Omurice (Rice Omelet with Ketchup Fried Rice)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter or oil; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1/4 cup diced carrots; 1/4 cup frozen peas; 1/4 cup corn kernels; 1/2 cup cooked chicken or ham, diced; 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2–3 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 large eggs; 2 tbsp milk or cream; Pinch of salt; 1 tbsp butter; Ketchup (for drizzling); Chopped parsley (optional)

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Japanese Omurice is the perfect combination of cozy and charming—a beloved comfort dish that wraps savory ketchup fried rice in a soft, fluffy omelet. Blending Western omelet technique with Japanese flavor, this nostalgic staple is both satisfying and visually delightful. Whether you’re recreating your favorite anime meal, cooking a quick weeknight dinner, or serving something special and fun, omurice brings flavor and flair to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Omurice is as fun to make as it is to eat. The ketchup fried rice is sweet, savory, and packed with vegetables and protein, while the omelet adds creaminess and elegance. It’s incredibly versatile—customize the filling with what you have on hand—and perfect for any skill level. Best of all, it’s quick, comforting, and comes with that dramatic omelet-slicing moment that makes it extra satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Ketchup Fried Rice:

butter or oil
diced onion
diced carrots
frozen peas
corn kernels
cooked chicken or ham, diced
cooked rice (preferably day-old)
ketchup
soy sauce
salt and pepper, to taste

For the Omelet:

large eggs
milk or cream
salt
butter

Topping:

ketchup (for drizzling)
chopped parsley (optional)

Directions

Make the Ketchup Fried Rice:
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and carrots, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in peas, corn, and diced chicken or ham. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Add cooked rice, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and heat through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.

Prepare the Omelet:
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or cream), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
In a non-stick pan, heat butter over medium-low heat.
Pour in the egg mixture and swirl to coat the surface.
Let cook gently until the bottom is set but the top remains slightly custardy.

Assemble the Omurice:
Spoon the warm ketchup fried rice into the center of the omelet.
Using a spatula, carefully fold both sides of the omelet over the rice.
Slide onto a plate seam-side down.

Finish & Serve:
Drizzle with ketchup in a zig-zag or heart shape for a cute finish.
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Optionally, slice open the omelet for a soft, dramatic reveal.

Servings and timing

Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Cheesy Omurice: Add grated cheese to the rice or inside the omelet for melty richness.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to the ketchup rice for heat.
Beef or Shrimp: Use ground beef or shrimp instead of chicken or ham for different flavors.
Japanese Curry Style: Top with Japanese curry sauce instead of ketchup for a heartier version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover rice and omelet components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat the rice in a skillet or microwave.
For the omelet, gently reheat in a non-stick pan or prepare fresh for best texture.
Assembled omurice is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

What is omurice made of?

Omurice is a Japanese fusion dish consisting of seasoned fried rice (often with ketchup and vegetables) wrapped in a soft omelet, topped with ketchup or other sauces.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Day-old rice works best as it’s drier and fries more evenly, but freshly cooked rice can be used—just let it cool slightly and spread it out before stir-frying.

What kind of ketchup should I use?

Regular tomato ketchup works perfectly. You can also use Japanese-style ketchup for a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I make this without meat?

Absolutely. Omurice is just as delicious with a mix of vegetables or even tofu.

How do I get the omelet to fold neatly?

Use a non-stick pan and cook the eggs gently over low heat. Once mostly set, use a spatula to fold the sides over the rice carefully.

Is this dish served in restaurants in Japan?

Yes, omurice is popular in home cooking and casual restaurants known as yoshoku (Western-style Japanese diners).

Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare the rice in advance and reheat it before wrapping it in the omelet. For best results, cook the omelet fresh.

What sides go well with omurice?

Serve with a simple side salad, miso soup, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can kids eat this?

Yes—it’s mild, flavorful, and visually fun, making it a favorite with kids.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Be sure it’s fully cooked and slightly dry for best stir-fry results.

Conclusion

Japanese Omurice is the kind of dish that brings comfort, creativity, and a touch of whimsy to your plate. With its sweet-savory ketchup rice wrapped in a delicate omelet, it’s no surprise this dish is a nostalgic favorite across generations. Whether you’re inspired by anime, craving a warm home-cooked meal, or looking for a simple dinner idea, omurice is a flavorful classic that’s always a hit.

Japanese Omurice (Rice Omelet with Ketchup Fried Rice)

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Japanese Omurice is a cozy and cute comfort food classic, featuring a fluffy omelet wrapped around ketchup fried rice. Blending savory vegetables, tender chicken, and a sweet-savory ketchup glaze, it’s a popular anime-style dish perfect for family dinners or a kawaii-inspired meal night.

Instructions

Make the Ketchup Fried Rice: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrots until soft, about 2–3 minutes. Add peas, corn, and diced meat. Stir in rice, ketchup, and soy sauce. Mix well, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Prepare the Omelet: Whisk eggs, milk, and salt in a bowl. In a non-stick pan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg mixture, swirling to evenly coat. Cook until just set but still soft.
Assemble: Spoon the ketchup fried rice into the center of the omelet. Carefully fold the sides over the rice, then flip the omelet onto a plate seam-side down.