Phat Phet (Spicy Stir-Fry): A Flavorful Adventure
If you love bold flavors and vibrant colors, then Phat Phet, a traditional Thai stir-fry, is the perfect dish for you! This delightful recipe features a mix of fresh vegetables and proteins, all cooked together in a spicy sauce. Phat Phet holds a special place in Thai cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings or celebrations. It’s not just delicious; it also tells the story of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.
This dish is popular because it can be customized with your favorite proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu, and the spicy kick makes every bite exciting! Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or fun lunch gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Red bell pepper (sliced) | 1 |
| Green bell pepper (sliced) | 1 |
| Broccoli (florets) | 1 cup |
| Protein (chicken, beef, or tofu) | 1 pound |
| Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao) | 3 tablespoons |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup |
| Lime (juiced) | 1 |
| Optional: Peanuts (crushed) | 1/4 cup |
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the meat with extra firm tofu or other plant-based proteins. Instead of fish sauce, try soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Wash and cut all your vegetables and protein. This will make cooking faster and easier!
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until it smells delicious!
- Add Protein: Toss in your chosen protein. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Throw in the bell peppers and broccoli. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
- Mix in the Sauce: Add Thai chili paste and fish sauce to the pan. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients well.
- Finish with Basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and lime juice. Cook for 1-2 more minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, optionally garnished with crushed peanuts!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, like snap peas or carrots!
- Adjust the Spice: Add more or fewer Thai chilies based on your family’s spice preference.
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure not to overcook the veggies; they should still have a little crunch.
- Cook in Batches: If you make a big batch, cook in separate portions for better heat distribution.
FAQs
What is Phat Phet?
Phat Phet is a spicy stir-fry dish from Thailand, made with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein, flavored with chili paste and fish sauce.
Can I make Phat Phet vegetarian?
Yes! You can use tofu or any other plant-based protein instead of meat to make it vegetarian.
How spicy is Phat Phet?
The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of Thai chili paste you use, making it as mild or as fiery as you prefer!
What can I serve with Phat Phet?
Phat Phet is delicious on its own or served with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option!
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience, but fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture.
What type of pan is best for stir-frying?
A wok is ideal for stir-frying as it distributes heat evenly, but a large skillet works well too!
Is Phat Phet a healthy dish?
Yes, Phat Phet is loaded with vegetables and can be made with lean proteins, making it a nutritious choice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Phat Phet?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze Phat Phet for up to 1 month. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before eating!
Enjoy this exciting culinary journey with Phat Phet, a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table!
