Name: Chili Beef Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 cups cooked jasmine rice (cold); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 4 green onions, chopped; 2 eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Red chili slices, optional

If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food that is both quick and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Chili Beef Fried Rice. This delightful dish marries the spiciness of chili garlic sauce with savory ground beef, fluffy jasmine rice, and an array of vibrant vegetables. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul. With its bold flavors and heartiness, this recipe is not only perfect for weeknight dinners but also great for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this Chili Beef Fried Rice is highly versatile. The layers of flavor—from the umami of soy sauce to the aromatic essence of garlic and ginger—create a delicious symphony in every bite. Plus, the incorporation of fresh herbs and optional chili slices allow you to customize the dish according to your heat tolerance. So, prepare your cooking station, and let’s dive into why you’ll love this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Chili Beef Fried Rice

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: A scrumptious blend of spices and textures that delight the palate.
Customizable: Easily modify with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Kid-Friendly: Spicy yet balanced, great for the whole family.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing your kitchen and workspace is essential for a smooth cooking experience, especially when making this flavorful Chili Beef Fried Rice. Start by gathering your ingredients, including ground beef, cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and an array of fresh vegetables. Having everything nearby will help streamline the cooking process.

For this recipe, a large wok or a deep skillet is preferred, as it allows for even heat distribution and easy tossing of ingredients. Make sure to have a spatula for stirring and a cutting board for chopping your vegetables. It’s also beneficial to prep your vegetables ahead of time—dicing the red bell pepper and chopping the green onions—so you can quickly add them to the dish when the time comes. Once your ingredients are ready, you’ll be all set to create this delicious stir-fry!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
4 cups cooked jasmine rice (cold)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 green onions, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Red chili slices, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Heat Oil and Cook Beef

Begin by heating a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil and allow it to warm. Introduce the ground beef to the pan, cooking it until it’s well-browned and crispy, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to break up any large clumps of meat, as even cooking ensures optimal flavor and texture. Once browned, push the beef to one side of the pan to make space for the next ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

To the space next to the beef, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics for about 1–2 minutes until they release their fragrant aroma. This step is crucial as it infuses the oil and subsequent ingredients with robust flavors. After the garlic and ginger have cooked down, toss in the diced red bell pepper and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the veggies remain vibrant and slightly crisp.

Step 3: Scramble Eggs

Pour the beaten eggs into the warm pan, mixing them briefly with the beef and vegetable mix. Scramble the eggs until they’re just set, about a minute. The eggs will add a lovely richness and color to your fried rice.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Next, gently fold in the cold jasmine rice, breaking up any clumps as you mix. It’s essential to use cold rice, ideally day-old, to prevent the dish from becoming mushy. Stir well to combine with the beef, eggs, and vegetables, ensuring the rice is heated through and evenly mixed.

Step 5: Stir in Sauces

Now, drizzle the soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Using your spatula, stir-fry everything together for about 4–5 minutes until all components are thoroughly combined and the rice is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Finally, stir in the chopped green onions, which add freshness and a touch of crunch. Remove the pan from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and optional slices of red chili for an extra kick. Serve your Chili Beef Fried Rice hot for the best experience!

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for more color and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with additional spices like five-spice powder or cumin for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

For the best texture, use day-old rice that has been stored in the refrigerator.
Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to suit your spice preference.
Double the recipe if you’re cooking for a larger gathering.
Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables to make the dish more nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with pickled vegetables on the side for an added crunch.
Pair with a simple cucumber salad to balance the dish’s richness.

Tips

Don’t overcrowd your pan; cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
Use a high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor.
Garnish with lime wedges for a zesty finish!
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be used, though it will alter the texture slightly and may require a longer cooking time.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While fried rice is best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted depending on how much chili garlic sauce you use. Feel free to reduce it for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Chili Beef Fried Rice is not just a dish; it’s an experience that embodies the perfect flavors of comfort food in a quick and easy preparation. From its fiery notes to the welcoming essence of cooked beef, this recipe promises satisfaction and joy with every mouthful. It’s the perfect solution for busy days while still allowing you to savor a homemade meal. I encourage you to try this recipe today, share your thoughts in the comments, or let us know your favorite variations. Happy cooking!