Thai-Inspired Beef Fried Rice

Background and History

Thai-Inspired Beef Fried Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that draws inspiration from Thai cuisine. Fried rice itself has a long history, originating in China as a practical way to use up leftover rice. Thai fried rice typically includes a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, often incorporating ingredients like fish sauce, soy sauce, and fresh herbs. This fusion dish combines the essence of Thai flavors with the comforting familiarity of fried rice, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

Serves: 4 Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled (preferably day-old rice)
• 250g beef steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until fragrant.
• Add diced bell pepper and carrot to the skillet and cook until slightly softened.
• Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through.
• Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps.
• Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice and vegetables.
• In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the rice mixture and stir well to coat.
• Add frozen peas to the skillet and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg

Notes

• You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or baby corn.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add tofu or tempeh as a protein alternative.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less soy sauce, fish sauce, or lime juice.
• Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Allergy Warning

This recipe contains soy (from soy sauce), fish (from fish sauce), and shellfish (from oyster sauce). If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, please exercise caution or seek suitable substitutes.