Onion Beef Fried Rice

Description:
Onion Beef Fried Rice is a savory, flavorful dish that combines tender beef with the aromatic taste of caramelized onions, along with perfectly seasoned rice. It’s a great way to use leftover rice, and the combination of soy sauce, garlic, and onions creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. This dish is easy to make, quick to prepare, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Origin:
Fried rice is a beloved dish originating from China, with various regional variations across Asia. This version with beef and onions adds a rich umami flavor and has become a popular choice in many households and restaurants.

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 lb (450g) beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
  • 4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold rice works best)
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (adjust for taste)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (for added color and nutrients)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (for added fragrance)
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced (for extra spice)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Thinly slice the beef against the grain into small strips. If the beef is too thick, you can freeze it for 20-30 minutes to make slicing easier.
   • In a bowl, marinate the beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Cook the Eggs:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
   • Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and scramble them until cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside with the scrambled eggs.
4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cold, cooked rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Use a spatula to break up any clumps of rice and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and absorb the flavors.
   • Return the cooked beef and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce (optional), and black pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well mixed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • If using, add the green onions (and peas or mixed vegetables) and give it one last stir.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (you can add more soy sauce for saltiness or pepper for spice).
   • Serve hot and enjoy your Onion Beef Fried Rice!

Tips for Success:

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and mushy for fried rice. Leftover, cold rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky.
• High heat: Make sure the pan is hot when stir-frying to give the rice a nice crispy texture.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added crunch and nutrients.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to cook in batches to ensure even frying.

Recommendations:

• Pair this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• This is an excellent dish for using up leftover rice and makes for a great weeknight dinner.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutrition can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Enjoy making this Onion Beef Fried Rice! It’s quick, tasty, and sure to be a favorite in your household.