Easy Beef Fried Brown Rice With Veggies
Oh my, this easy beef fried brown rice with veggies is the tastiest. And I think you’ll agree.
As the title states, it’s super easy to make; and versatile. You really can’t mess this fried rice up, because its basically done in 123.
And what makes it even better is that you can add in whatever kind of protein, rice and vegetables you prefer.
Note: In this case, we’re using thawed or partially thawed frozen veggies so they won’t be overcooked during the stir fry process.
They’ll be added in while the rice is being cooked, and will cook the rest of the way during that time.
Just make sure to set aside a cup of frozen peas or whatever veggies you prefer, a couple of hours before making the fried rice.
This way, it’ll be somewhat thawed when added in with the rice and other ingredients.
Super Simple to Make
Each step of this fried rice recipe is pretty simple, and not at all complicated. For those of you who’ve never tried brown rice before, let me tell you: it’s amazing!
The flavor and taste of brown rice is already so good. But when you add ground beef, soy sauce, fresh veggies and sesame oil; it all adds up to the tastiest meal ever.
*It’s Best to Use Cold Leftover Rice*
The ideal rice to use to make this easy beef fried brown rice with veggies should be cold, namely leftover rice.
Or rice that’s been cooked early in the day, and refrigerated for at least 3 – 4 hours beforehand.
This is so that the rice won’t be soft or sticky. It’ll stay nice and firm during the stir frying (cooking) process.
In other words, the texture of freshly cooked rice usually eaten with a meal, and rice needed for fried rice are different.
*Note: For homemade fried rice to taste as authentic as possible, it’s best that you use long-grain rice such as Jasmine rice, etc.
For example, I thought I could get away with using just regular short-grain rice; but it didn’t taste as good and as authentic. When I used Jasmine rice, what a big difference!*
What Makes This Fried Rice the Perfect Weeknight Meal or Even Lunch?
I have to say, this easy beef fried brown rice with veggies makes for a perfect weeknight meal. Or it would be perfect for a healthy and tasty lunch even.
Well, for starters; you’ve got your protein, whole-grain rice, and veggies all in one. And it doesn’t take long to make at all.
Indeed, this fried rice has all the flavor and taste you’d expect; just as if it came from your favorite restaurant. Only it’s less greasy and way more healthier.
What Makes it Better Than Takeout
Wouldn’t you rather avoid the unhealthy takeout version of fried rice? After one bite of this easy beef fried brown rice with veggies, you won’t want to turn back.
What also makes this fried rice so amazing, is that you can use any protein you want. Just switch out the beef for chicken or another kind of meat you want.
You can even add tofu instead for a vegan alternative. You can even use white rice instead of the brown rice.
The brown rice wins in this dish, though IMO. Getting any ideas yet?
Which Ground Beef is Right For You?
If you’re going with the ground beef, you may want to consider using a lean kind. It’s lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. And it’s less detrimental to your heart health.
At least, that’s what I did. I used a 93% lean ground beef for this fried rice, and it worked out great.
For those who prefer their beef to contain a bit more fat, the 90% lean ground beef would work. And it’ll also add more flavor to the rice.
This is just my personal advice for if you want your rice to be healthy as compared to a restaurant kind. In the end, all up to you what kind of meat or protein you use.
(If you’re interested, read this article on the link between eating red meat and heart disease. It’s ok to eat red meat on occasion only, but definitely not on a daily basis)
Meat-Free Option..
Finally, what also makes this fried rice so great; is that you can customize it to suit your tastes.
You don’t even have to add any protein at all, and still turn out a super tasty meal.
This is a great option for those who are vegetarians, or if you just don’t have any meat or protein on hand.
Easy Beef Fried Brown Rice With Veggies Ingredients
It’s good to check that you have all the necessary ingredients on hand, before making this fried rice.
And you actually don’t need that much to make it at all. Check them out below..
- 3 cups leftover cold rice: As I’ve mentioned earlier, make the rice 3 – 4 hours prior. Then refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. It’ll be nice and cold by then.
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef: Or use whatever other protein you prefer.
- 1 cup frozen veggies of your choice (thawed)
- 2 eggs: Or you can use egg whites instead for health reasons.
- 3 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 – 1 tsp Toasted Sesame Oil: Make sure it’s the toasted one. I made the mistake of buying regular sesame oil, then wondered why the rice tasted so bland; lol.
Start off with 1/2 tsp first and taste. Add the extra 1/2 tsp if desired. - Freshly Chopped Green Onion (optional but highly recommended)
A Few More Easy and Tasty Weeknight Meals For You to Consider:
Here are a few more recommendations for you to check out while you’re here.
They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or lunch that your whole family is sure to enjoy.
Easy Stovetop Noodles With Canned Salmon
Amazing Lazy Baked Pasta With Tuna (so good!)
Healthy Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas
Super Quick and Tasty Tuna Avocado Sandwich
Even More Tasty Main Dish Recipes
I would love to know your thoughts on this easy beef fried brown rice with veggies recipe.
Comment below. Thank you so much, and God bless:)
Easy Beef Fried Brown Rice With Veggies
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
Ingredients
- 3 cups very cold or leftover brown rice Or you can use white rice instead
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef or substitute other protein
- 1 cup thawed frozen peas or other veggie mix
- 2 – 2 1/2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce start out with the 2 tbsp first, then add 1/2 tbsp more if needed
- 2 eggs or egg whites
- 1/2 – 1 tsp *toasted* sesame oil add in only after the rice is finished cooking
- Freshly chopped green onion for extra flavor
Instructions
- First, cook the ground beef until browned; on medium-high heat. This should take less than 5 minutes. (The ground beef will make its own oil as it cooks. But you can still add a little oil or spray the pan with oil spray beforehand if you prefer)Drain any excess liquid and set the beef aside in a small bowl.
- With the skillet on medium-high heat, spray with oil spray or add a couple tsp of oil.Lightly scramble the eggs or egg whites in a bowl, then add to the skillet. Cook for about a minute, while cutting up into small pieces at the same time with the edge of a spatula. (Remove the eggs from the pan, and set aside to prevent overcooking it)
- Add a couple more tsp of oil or spray the pan with oil. Add in the rice and the cooked ground beef. Cook the rice and beef mixture* until thoroughly heated. It should take around 5 – 8 minutes, or a little longer if necessary). *Make sure to stir every few seconds to prevent sticking
- Add in the thawed veggies and soy sauce. Stir fry for a couple more minutes until the veggies are fully heated.
- When the rice is finished cooking, turn off the heat. Taste and add additional soy sauce and a little salt if needed. Also top with freshly chopped green onion if desired, before serving.