Seared beef, aromatic garlic, and veggies tossed with rice for a fast, satisfying meal.
Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Beef fried rice is a go-to dish when you want something quick, filling, and full of flavor. This version is rich and garlicky with tender, seared beef, fluffy rice, and pops of fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and takes just minutes to make once your ingredients are prepped.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice)
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1/2 pound (225g) beef steak or thinly sliced beef (sirloin or ribeye work great)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more as needed)
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3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1/4 cup onion, chopped
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1/4 cup carrot, diced
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1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
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2 green onions, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: chili flakes or fresh chopped chili for heat
Instructions
1. Prep the Beef
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Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
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Toss with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Beef
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Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil.
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Sear the beef in batches until browned and just cooked through, about 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Fried Rice
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In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Add the diced carrots and peas. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
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Add the rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula or spoon.
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Drizzle in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together evenly.
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Return the beef to the pan and mix well. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
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Stir in green onions and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce as needed.
Tips for Best Results
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Use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice can get mushy.
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High heat helps get that classic slightly crispy edge on the rice.
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Slice beef thinly so it cooks fast and stays tender.
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For extra depth, add a splash of fish sauce or a dash of hoisin.
Variations
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Swap beef with chicken, pork, or tofu.
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Add a fried egg on top or scramble one into the rice.
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Stir in chopped kimchi or pickled veggies for a bold twist.
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Try it with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This garlic beef fried rice is fast, flexible, and incredibly satisfying. It’s got just the right balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors — and it tastes even better than takeout. Keep it simple or make it your own, but once you try it, this dish will stay in your rotation.