How to Cook Hibachi on a Flat Top Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking hibachi on a flat top grill is a popular and delicious way to prepare a meal that mimics the authenticity of a traditional Japanese hibachi cooking experience. This guide will take you through the process of cooking hibachi-style meals right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Proteins

Chicken Shrimp Tofu

Vegetables

Zucchini Onions Mushrooms Bell peppers Carrots

Rice

White rice (preferably day-old for best texture)

Sauces

Soy sauce Teriyaki sauce Yum yum sauce

Oil

Vegetable oil Sesame oil

Seasonings

Salt Pepper Garlic Ginger (optional)

Equipment

Flat top grill or griddle Spatula Knife and cutting board Bowls for ingredients

Instructions

Preparation

Cut the proteins into bite-sized pieces and chop the vegetables. Pre-cook the rice using leftover rice or cooking it beforehand and letting it cool.

Preheat the Grill

Heat your flat top grill over medium-high heat until it's hot. You can test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface—they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.

Oil the Grill

Add a thin layer of oil to the grill surface to prevent sticking. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Cook the Proteins

Start with the proteins. If using chicken or steak, add them to the grill first and cook until browned and cooked through (about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness). For shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque (about 2-3 minutes per side). Season with salt, pepper, and garlic or ginger if desired.

Add the Vegetables

Once the proteins are nearly done, push them to one side of the grill and add the vegetables to the other side. Cook the vegetables until tender, stirring frequently (about 5-7 minutes).

Combine and Flavor

Mix the proteins and vegetables together on the grill. Add a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for flavor and stir well.

Fry the Rice

Push the protein and vegetable mixture to one side again and add a bit more oil to the empty side. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry it for a few minutes, mixing in the sauce and any remaining seasonings.

Serve

Serve the meal immediately. You can garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips

Cook in Batches: If you're making a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking. Use a Hibachi Grill: You can replicate the experience with a charcoal hibachi grill for added flavor. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other sauces or spices to customize to your taste.

Enjoy Your Homemade Hibachi!

Now that you've learned how to cook hibachi on a flat top grill, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic dining experience right in your own kitchen. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect hibachi dish.