This hearty and flavourful Onion Beef Fried Rice is the perfect way to use up leftover rice and create a satisfying meal in just one pan. Featuring savoury ground beef, sweet onions, and mixed vegetables, all tossed in a rich umami sauce, this dish comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Great for Leftovers: A delicious way to repurpose day-old rice and stray veggies.
- Balanced Meal: Protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one dish.
- Customisable: You can easily adapt it based on what’s in your fridge or pantry.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old and cold for best texture)
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, corn, or green beans)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Optional Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
- A drizzle of chilli oil or sriracha for heat
- A fried egg on top (for extra richness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
Use cold, day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and sticky, which can lead to clumps in the pan. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking tray and let it cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
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 break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the mixed vegetables. Continue to cook for another 3–5 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender. If using frozen vegetables, thaw them first or add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Add the Rice
Crumble the cold rice with your hands if needed to separate any clumps, then add it to the skillet. Stir everything together so the rice mixes evenly with the beef and vegetables.
6. Season the Fried Rice
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir thoroughly to coat every grain of rice. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the rice to slightly crisp.
7. Serve
Transfer the beef fried rice to bowls or plates. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh coriander for a pop of colour and added flavour. For extra indulgence, top with a fried egg or a drizzle of chilli sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use a Large Pan: A wide skillet or wok ensures even cooking and better stir-fry action.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your pan is too small, cook in batches to avoid steaming the ingredients.
- High Heat is Key: This helps achieve that classic slightly crispy fried rice texture.
- Use Quality Soy and Oyster Sauces: These add depth and umami, so opt for good brands if available.
- Boost Protein or Veg: You can add scrambled eggs, tofu, shrimp, or even leftover roast meats.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it as a main dish on its own for a complete meal.
- Pair it with a side of steamed dumplings or a light Asian-inspired cucumber salad.
- Serve with miso soup or hot and sour soup for a cosy dinner experience.
Final Thoughts
This Onion Beef Fried Rice is a comforting, filling dish that’s bursting with flavour and textures. It’s a fantastic recipe to keep on hand when you want something quick, hearty, and made with pantry staples. Whether you’re using it to clear out your fridge or simply craving a takeaway-style meal at home, this dish will definitely hit the spot.