This Easy Beef Fried Rice is a fantastic meal for those busy weeknights! With tender beef, colorful veggies, and fluffy rice, it’s both tasty and quick to make. What’s not to love?
Honestly, it’s like a little party in a bowl! I whip it up in no time, and my family devours it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice. Win-win! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I love using sirloin or flank steak because they’re tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken or shrimp work well too, or for a vegetarian option, try tofu!
Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice since it’s a bit drier and prevents clumping. If you don’t have any, cook fresh rice and let it cool completely before using it.
Vegetables: Diced carrots and peas add great color and taste. You can swap them with corn, bell peppers, or any leftover veggies you have on hand.
Eggs: They add creaminess to the dish. If you want a vegan option, replace them with scrambled tofu or omit entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Fried Rice?
Cooking rice perfectly for fried rice is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use day-old rice if possible; it absorbs flavors better and prevents mushiness.
- When cooking fresh rice, let it cool completely before using. Spreading it on a tray can speed things up.
- Stir-frying at high heat is crucial. It gives the rice a nice texture and a bit of crispiness.
- Make sure to break up any clumps of rice while frying, so it mixes well with other ingredients.
These simple tips will elevate your fried rice and make it a family favorite. Happy cooking!
Easy Beef Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old and chilled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Beef Fried Rice recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty but quick to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the thinly sliced beef. Season it with a little salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned and just cooked through. When done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté them together for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced carrots to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. After that, add the thawed peas and stir them in, cooking for another minute. You want everything to be bright and colorful!
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Now, push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and let them cook for a moment. Whisk them gently until just set, and then combine them with the veggies.
5. Combine with Rice:
It’s time for the rice! Add the chilled, cooked rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break apart any clumps and mix everything together. Make sure the rice is warmed through.
6. Add the Flavor:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be well mixed, and you can let the rice get a little crispy if you like! Don’t forget to taste as you go—you can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When everything is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a nice fresh touch. Serve it hot and enjoy your delicious Easy Beef Fried Rice!
Bon appétit! This dish is a fantastic go-to for busy nights and will surely become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Beef Fried Rice
Can I Use Leftover Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked beef, just slice it thin and add it in with the vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. This is a great way to save time and reduce food waste!
What if I Don’t Have Day-Old Rice?
No worries! If you don’t have day-old rice, simply cook fresh rice and let it cool completely before using it in the recipe. Spreading it on a baking sheet can help it cool faster to prevent mushiness in your fried rice.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free! Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce. Check the oyster sauce as well, as some brands contain gluten, or you can omit it altogether.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and heat it gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
These FAQs should help with any common questions you might have while preparing or enjoying your Easy Beef Fried Rice!
