Steak Fried Rice
Steak Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender pieces of steak with vibrant vegetables and flavorful rice. This quick and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Whether you have leftover steak or want to make something fresh, this Steak Fried Rice will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
There are countless reasons to add Steak Fried Rice to your weekly meal plan. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for a busy household. Third, the flavors are out of this world, with the savory soy sauce and the aromatic garlic elevating each bite. Plus, you can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it time and time again.
Gather These Ingredients
To create this delicious Steak Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil – for a rich, nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil – a neutral oil to sauté your ingredients.
- 1 cup diced onion – adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – for a burst of flavor.
- 2 cups frozen peas and carrots – a convenient and colorful addition.
- 3 large eggs, whisked – for added protein and richness.
- 4 cups cooked cold white rice – day-old rice works best for texture.
- 1 pound cubed and cooked steak, 1-inch cubes – use leftover steak or cook fresh.
- ½ cup soy sauce – for seasoning and umami flavor.
- Sliced green onions, optional for garnish – for a fresh pop of color.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying your ingredients.
- Spatula – for mixing and flipping the rice.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
- Whisk – to mix the eggs thoroughly.
Cooking Steak Fried Rice: The Process
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Steak Fried Rice.
Step 1: Heat the Oils
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil and canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. The combination of these oils adds depth to the dish, creating a fragrant base for your fried rice.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and stir for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Peas and Carrots
Next, toss in the frozen peas and carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to cook through and become tender.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs
Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the whisked eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the vegetable mixture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Rice
Add the cooked cold white rice to the skillet. Break apart any clumps and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the vegetables and eggs.
Step 6: Add the Steak
Fold in the cubed and cooked steak. Make sure to distribute the steak evenly throughout the rice for balanced bites.
Step 7: Season with Soy Sauce
Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine, allowing the soy sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting everything heat through.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your Steak Fried Rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy this flavorful dish with family and friends!
Customize for Your Needs
One of the best features of Steak Fried Rice is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Swap the steak for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
- Spice it up with some sriracha or chili paste for a kick of heat.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned cooks can make a few common mistakes when preparing Steak Fried Rice. Here are some to watch out for:
- Using freshly cooked rice can lead to mushy fried rice. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
- Overcrowding the pan can cause the rice to steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not letting the skillet get hot enough can result in ingredients sticking to the pan.
- Using too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Start with less and adjust to taste.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Steak Fried Rice is a fantastic meal prep option. Here are some tips for making it ahead of time and storing leftovers:
- Prepare the ingredients in advance, chopping vegetables and cooking the steak, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Leftover Steak Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it until hot, or stir-fry it in a skillet for a few minutes.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen rice for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rice works well for fried rice. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet to prevent clumping.
What type of steak is best for fried rice?
Any tender cut of steak works well, such as sirloin, flank, or ribeye. Just ensure it is cooked and cubed before adding it to the dish.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the steak and use tofu or additional vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version of Steak Fried Rice.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Using cold, day-old rice is key. Additionally, avoid adding too much liquid when cooking and ensure your skillet is hot enough to fry the rice properly.
See You at the Table
Steak Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience to be shared with loved ones. The comforting aroma and vibrant colors make it a dish everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a weekend gathering, this Steak Fried Rice will be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of this delicious creation. Happy cooking!
Steak Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil and canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and stir for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Next, toss in the frozen peas and carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to cook through and become tender.
- Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the whisked eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the vegetable mixture.
- Add the cooked cold white rice to the skillet. Break apart any clumps and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the vegetables and eggs.
- Fold in the cubed and cooked steak. Make sure to distribute the steak evenly throughout the rice for balanced bites.
- Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine, allowing the soy sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting everything heat through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve your Steak Fried Rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
- Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
