Fried rice is a versatile and delicious dish, perfect for using up leftovers while creating a satisfying meal. Onion Beef Fried Rice combines the umami richness of ground beef, the aromatic sweetness of sautéed onions, and perfectly fried rice with savory seasonings. This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a flavorful and well-textured dish while providing tips to avoid common pitfalls in making fried rice.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced carrots, peas, and corn)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
✅ Why use cold, day-old rice?
Cold rice is essential for fried rice because fresh, warm rice tends to be soft and sticky, leading to mushy results. Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which helps in achieving a proper fried texture.
Tip: If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a tray and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Common Mistake to Avoid:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If too much beef is added at once, it will steam instead of searing, reducing flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan. If needed, add another ½ tablespoon of oil to the empty side.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Tip: Caramelized onions add a deeper sweetness to the dish, so don’t rush this step.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
- Add 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn) to the pan.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Common Mistake to Avoid:
- If using frozen vegetables, let them thaw slightly before adding. Adding them directly from frozen can cause excess water in the pan, making the fried rice soggy.
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