National Fried Rice Day: A Celebration of a Global Favorite
Celebrated annually on September 20th, National Fried Rice Day honors one of the world’s most beloved rice dishes that has evolved from a humble leftover solution to a global culinary sensation.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 20th
- Tagged as: Food & Drink Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalFriedRiceDay #FriedRiceFrenzy #WokAndRoll
- When was it founded?: August 14, 2018
- Who founded it?: Benihana Restaurants
History
Fried rice originated in China during the Sui Dynasty (589-618 AD) as a practical way to use leftover rice. The dish quickly evolved from a simple solution to prevent food waste into a culinary masterpiece, spreading across Asia and eventually worldwide. Each culture has since developed its unique variations, incorporating local ingredients and cooking styles.
Timeline
- 6000 BC: Rice cultivation begins in China
- 589 AD: First documented fried rice appears in Sui Dynasty
- 1800s: Chinese immigrants bring fried rice to America
- 1940s: Fried rice gains popularity in Western cuisine
- 2018: First official National Fried Rice Day celebration
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Sep 20 | Friday |
| 2025 | Sep 20 | Saturday |
| 2026 | Sep 20 | Sunday |
Observed
The day is celebrated worldwide through special restaurant promotions, cooking events, and social media campaigns. Benihana notably marked the first celebration by setting a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon.
Fun Facts About Fried Rice
- Day-old rice makes the best fried rice
- Benihana uses over 2.7 million pounds of rice annually
- The wok’s unique shape was specifically designed for rice frying
- Traditional Chinese fried rice rarely uses soy sauce
Quiz
- When was fried rice first documented?
- Who established National Fried Rice Day?
- What’s the best type of rice to use for fried rice?
(Answers: 1. Sui Dynasty 2. Benihana 3. Day-old rice)
FAQs
Q: Why use cold rice for fried rice?
A: Cold rice prevents clumping and ensures better texture.
Q: Can fried rice be healthy?
A: Yes, when prepared with lean proteins and vegetables.
Importance of National Fried Rice Day
This celebration highlights cultural fusion, culinary innovation, and the universal appeal of a dish that brings people together across borders and traditions.
Related
- National Rice Month
- Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
- World Food Day
- International Chinese Food Day