If you’re craving a dish that brings together tender beef, fragrant jasmine rice, and the sweet savoriness of onions, you’ve got to try this Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe. It’s a deliciously simple way to pack dinner with hearty protein and that irresistible stir-fried flavor we all love. Every bite bursts with well-balanced layers of taste and texture, making it an absolute weeknight winner that’s sure to become one of your favorites too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients, each playing a starring role in flavor, texture, or aroma. From the juicy flank steak to the perfectly cooked day-old rice, you’ll find each element essential for creating that authentic fried rice taste.
- 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced): Choose flank steak for its tenderness and quick cooking time, perfect for stir-frying.
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old): Using day-old rice ensures the grains stay separate and don’t clump together.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds that classic salty umami flavor that ties the whole dish together.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet depth to the rice.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Just a touch infuses the dish with its distinctive nutty aroma.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying the beef and onions without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced): Imparts sweetness and a lovely softness as it cooks down.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Fresh garnishes that add a mild oniony crunch and vibrant color.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic amps up the aroma and depth, waking up the whole pan.
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten): Adds silkiness and binds the rice together with extra protein.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to balance and enhance every flavor.
How to Make Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
Start by combining the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This sauce blend will make sure every grain of rice and slice of beef is bursting with flavor, providing that signature savory kick of the Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat in a large skillet or wok. Once hot, add the thinly sliced flank steak. Stir-fry it for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s nicely browned on the outside but still tender inside, then remove it from the pan. This quick cooking keeps the beef juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the thinly sliced yellow onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds more—this releases its fragrance without burning, adding depth to the dish.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
Push the onions and garlic to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and gently scramble until just cooked through, silky and soft. This layering technique allows the eggs to cook perfectly without overwhelming the other flavors.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Sauce
Add the day-old jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the rice, stirring everything together thoroughly. Coating the rice in sauce ensures each bite has that unmistakable savory seasoning so good in this Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe.
Step 6: Return the Beef and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss everything together. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors marry beautifully and the dish is heated through. You’ll end up with a perfect harmony of tender beef, flavorful rice, and caramelized onions.
How to Serve Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top just before serving. Their bright color and mild crunch add the perfect finishing touch, elevating the dish visually and texturally.
Side Dishes
This fried rice stands beautifully on its own as a fulfilling main course, but pairing it with a simple Asian-style cucumber salad or some steamed bok choy can add a refreshing, crisp contrast. These sides balance the richness and round out your meal thoughtfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fried rice in crispy fried wonton cups or inside lettuce wraps. You can also top it with a fried egg for extra indulgence. These ideas turn your Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe into a festive, eye-catching dish that’s impressive for guests or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those delicious flavors without extra cooking.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, this fried rice freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and taste.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat. A splash of water or a little oil helps refresh the rice’s texture. Stir frequently to heat evenly, preserving the dish’s full flavor and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak works best for tenderness and quick cooking, sirloin or ribeye can also be used. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly to keep it tender.
Is it necessary to use day-old rice?
Day-old rice is recommended because it’s drier and less sticky, helping to achieve that classic fried rice texture where grains stay separate. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out to cool and dry slightly before using.
Can I add vegetables to this Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe?
Yes! Vegetables like peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers can easily be added for extra color, crunch, and nutrition. Just stir-fry them with the onions before adding the rice.
What can I substitute if I want a vegetarian version?
Swap out the beef for firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. You can still follow the same steps, just adjust cooking times as needed to get a nice sear on your plant-based protein.
Why is sesame oil added to the sauce?
Sesame oil imparts a rich, nutty aroma that complements the other sauces perfectly. Even just a teaspoon goes a long way in making the dish taste authentically Asian-inspired and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a homemade Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe that you can whip up in just about 30 minutes. It’s satisfying, packed with flavor, and perfect for those busy nights when you want something fast but fabulous. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to dinner that friends and family will ask for again and again.
Print
Onion Beef Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful Onion Beef Fried Rice recipe featuring tender flank steak, aromatic onions, and perfectly cooked jasmine rice tossed in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend. This Asian-inspired stir-fry dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil; set aside to use later in the recipe.
- Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Sauté the thinly sliced yellow onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Scramble the eggs: Push the onions to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs gently until they are just cooked through.
- Combine rice and sauce: Add the jasmine rice to the skillet, stirring thoroughly to break up any clumps and mix with onions and eggs. Pour the prepared sauce over the rice and stir well to coat evenly.
- Add beef and finish cooking: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat all ingredients through and allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped green onions on top, and serve the fried rice hot for the best taste.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old jasmine rice as it is drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
- You can substitute chicken or tofu for the beef according to your preference.
- Add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value and color.
