Craving a quick and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor? Beef Fried Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that combines tender beef, seasoned rice, and fresh vegetables into one tasty dish. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this savory and hearty fried rice will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
• 1/2 lb beef (thinly sliced or ground beef)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
• 1/2 cup carrots (diced)
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions (sliced for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes or sriracha for spice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar (if using). Set aside.
2. If using thinly sliced beef, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and pour in the beaten eggs.
2. Scramble the eggs, cooking until just set, then remove them from the skillet and set aside with the cooked beef.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir in the diced onions and carrots, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add the Rice

1. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir the rice into the vegetable mixture and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the rice to slightly crisp up.
2. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the rice and stir well to coat all the ingredients.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs to the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra soy sauce if needed.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions and, if desired, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the beef fried rice hot, either as a main dish or alongside other favorite Asian-inspired dishes.

Cook Notes

• Day-Old Rice: Fried rice works best with cold, day-old rice, as it has a firmer texture and won’t become mushy when stir-fried.
• Thinly Sliced Beef: Thin cuts like flank steak or sirloin are great for this dish. Be sure to slice the beef against the grain for the most tender texture.
• Soy Sauce: Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste. If you prefer a saltier fried rice, feel free to add an extra splash.

Variations

• Spicy Beef Fried Rice: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil for a spicy version. You can also mix in some sriracha or sambal oelek for heat.
• Vegetable-Packed Fried Rice: Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for a more veggie-packed dish.
• Keto Version: Swap the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a keto-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, use cauliflower rice or shirataki rice to reduce carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use freshly cooked rice for fried rice?

While it’s best to use day-old rice for fried rice, you can use freshly cooked rice. Just spread the rice out on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let it dry out before using.

Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Yes! You can easily substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I make sure the fried rice doesn’t turn mushy?

To avoid mushy fried rice, make sure your rice is cold and day-old. When adding it to the skillet, use medium-high heat to help crisp up the rice, and avoid stirring it too often.

Can I make beef fried rice gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce, and make sure all other sauces are gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add to beef fried rice?

You can add almost any vegetable you like, such as bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding the rice.

Beef Fried Rice is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re using leftovers or starting from scratch, this easy recipe will have you enjoying a delicious meal in no time!