Introduction
Cooking is an art form that brings together various ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes. One such dish is beef fried rice, a delightful combination of tender marinated beef, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. In this article, we will explore the essential ingredients needed for this dish, along with some useful preparation tips.Detailed Ingredients with measures
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef and Marinade:
– 300g (10 oz) rump beef steak (US: top sirloin), sliced into small thin pieces (3-5mm thick, ~1.5cm squares)
– 1/2 tsp dark soy sauce
– 2 tsp oyster sauce
– 2 tbsp water
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/4 tsp sugar
– 3/8 tsp baking soda (bi-carbonate soda)
Fried Rice:
– 2 1/2 tbsp canola or peanut oil, divided
– 4 green onion stems, cut into 1.25 cm lengths, white and green parts separated
– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 520g (1 lb) cooked, day-old long grain white rice (4 cups), refrigerated overnight
– 200g (7 oz) green beans, cut into 1.25 cm pieces (~2 heaped cups)
Fried Rice Sauce:
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1/2 tsp sugar
Scrambled Egg:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 tsp sesame oil
– Pinch of salt and pepper
Prep Time
Preparation for beef fried rice typically takes about 15 minutes, excluding the marination time for the beef, which can vary from 1 hour to 24 hours based on your preference.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking process for this dish takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Therefore, the total time, including prep and cooking, can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 24 hours and 20 minutes, depending on the marination time. This recipe yields enough to serve 4 people, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or gathering.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate and Tenderize Beef:
In a bowl, mix dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, minced garlic, sugar, and baking soda. Add the beef slices, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours.
Prepare Sauce and Egg:
Combine fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar in a small bowl; set aside. Whisk eggs with sesame oil, salt, and pepper; set aside.
Cook Beef:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick pan over high heat. Add marinated beef; cook for 2 minutes until the surface is sealed. Add minced garlic, white parts of green onion, and green beans; cook for another minute until beef is caramelized.
Add Rice and Sauce:
Add cooked rice to the pan. Pour prepared sauce over the rice. Toss for 1.5 to 2 minutes to distribute sauce and allow rice to toast slightly.
Scramble Egg:
Push rice to one side of the pan. Add remaining 1/2 tablespoon oil to the empty side. Pour in egg mixture; let it set slightly, then gently scramble. Once mostly cooked, mix scrambled egg into the rice.
Finish and Serve:
Add green parts of green onion; toss through the rice. Serve immediately.
Notes
Beef Selection:
Using rump beef steak, also known as top sirloin in the US, provides a flavorful and tender base for the dish.
Marinating Time:
Marinating the beef for longer, if possible, enhances the tenderness and flavor.
Rice Preparation:
Using day-old cooked rice is ideal because it is drier and will fry better, preventing the fried rice from being mushy.
Cooking Time:
Ensure to watch cooking times and heat levels to prevent burning the garlic or overcooking the beef.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish can be complemented with additional vegetables or served alongside a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating Beef
Marinating beef helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Use a combination of sauces and seasonings to coat the beef evenly. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 1 hour, though longer marination (up to 24 hours) can enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Tenderizing with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great tenderizer for beef. It raises the pH level of the meat, allowing it to retain moisture and making it more tender during cooking. Use a small amount and ensure it is well mixed with the other marinade ingredients.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying involves cooking ingredients quickly in a hot pan with a small amount of oil. Start by cooking the protein first to seal in juices, then add vegetables and other ingredients in stages to maximize flavor and texture.
Using Day-Old Rice
Using cooked rice that has been refrigerated overnight is key for fried rice. It dries out the rice slightly, allowing it to fry without becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice retains too much moisture.
Scrambling Eggs in a Pan
When scrambling eggs, let them sit for a moment before stirring to allow them to set. Gently push the eggs around to create soft curds, and incorporate them into other ingredients in the pan for even distribution.
Adding Green Onions
Adding green onions in stages (whites early and greens at the end) ensures that each part retains its texture and flavor. The white parts benefit from cooking, while the green parts add a fresh, vibrant finish.
FAQ
Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, other cuts like flank steak or sirloin can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly as some cuts may cook faster or become tougher.
What is the purpose of using fish sauce?
Fish sauce adds depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing umami and providing a savory base for the fried rice sauce.
What if I don’t have day-old rice?
If you don’t have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before using it.
Can I omit the baking soda when marinating the beef?
Yes, you can omit baking soda, but the meat may be less tender. Consider marinating for a longer time to achieve desired tenderness without it.
What other vegetables can I add to the fried rice?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, or corn, depending on your preference and availability.
How can I store leftover fried rice?
Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious beef fried rice recipe showcases the perfect combination of marinated beef, vibrant green beans, aromatic garlic, and fluffy scrambled eggs, all stirred into day-old rice for a satisfying and flavorful dish. The unique marinade tenderizes the beef while the blend of sauces enhances the overall umami profile, making this a delightful meal that can be enjoyed any time.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Fried Rice
Substitute beef with diced chicken breast, maintaining the same marinade and cooking methods. Include peas and carrots for added color and nutrition.
Shrimp and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Replace beef with shrimp, and add bell peppers and broccoli for a vibrant and healthy seafood option. Use soy sauce and lemon juice for a refreshing flavor.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding tofu for protein. Incorporate a mixture of your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Use the marinated beef with steamed broccoli florets, served over rice for a classic dish that enhances the flavors of the beef and vegetables.
Pork Fried Rice
Swap beef for sliced pork tenderloin in the marinade, adding sliced mushrooms and bok choy for a savory and hearty fried rice dish.
