Beef Fried Rice Recipe

Prepare rice and beef

If you haven't already, cook rice 1–2 hours ahead and spread on a tray to cool and chill in the fridge so grains separate. Pat the beef dry and slice thinly across the grain. Toss the beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; let marinate 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Make sauce

In a small bowl combine remaining 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir until sugar dissolves and set aside.

Scramble eggs

Heat a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl. Crack the eggs into the pan, season lightly with a pinch of salt, and scramble quickly until just set but still soft. Transfer eggs to a plate and set aside.

Sear beef

Add 1 tablespoon cooking oil to the hot wok. When shimmering, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear without moving for 20–30 seconds to develop color, then toss and cook until just browned but not overcooked (about 1 more minute). Remove beef to the plate with eggs.

Aromatics and vegetables

Add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the wok. Reduce heat to medium-high if flame is excessively high. Add diced onion and stir-fry 1–2 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger and stir 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Add thawed peas and carrots and stir-fry another 1 minute until heated through.

Fry rice

Increase heat to high. Add chilled cooked rice, breaking apart any clumps with the back of your spatula. Toss and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes so rice gets hot and slightly toasted. Drizzle sesame oil over the rice and continue to stir.

Combine everything

Return the scrambled eggs and seared beef to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the rice and quickly toss to coat all ingredients. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until sauce is absorbed and flavors are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with up to 1/2 teaspoon salt or additional soy sauce if needed.

Finish

Turn off heat. Stir in sliced green onions and sprinkle white pepper if more is desired. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately.