Pad Kra Pao (Stir-Fried Basil): A Delightful Thai Dish
If you’re looking for a delicious and simple Thai recipe, look no further than Pad Kra Pao, also known as Stir-Fried Basil. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its bold flavors and quick preparation. It combines fresh basil with meat, usually ground chicken or pork, creating a savory and flavorful meal that’s hard to resist.
Pad Kra Pao has deep roots in Thai culture and cuisine, often associated with street food. It’s a beloved dish that many Thai people enjoy for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of spicy, savory, and aromatic ingredients makes it a go-to choice for those craving comfort food. Its popularity has spread worldwide, making it a must-try for anyone interested in Thai cooking.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken or pork | 1 pound |
| Fresh Thai basil leaves | 1 cup (packed) |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Bird’s eye chili, chopped | 2-3 (to taste) |
| Soya sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil (vegetable or olive) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cooked jasmine rice | for serving |
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground meat with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by mincing the garlic and chopping the bird’s eye chili. Set them aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Garlic and Chili: Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Meat: Add the ground chicken or pork to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the meat is fully cooked.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the soya sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute.
- Add Basil: Finally, fold in the fresh basil leaves. Stir until the basil is wilted, which should take about 1 minute.
- Serve: Serve hot over a bed of jasmine rice. Enjoy your delicious Pad Kra Pao!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 12g | 18% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 15% | 15% |
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil is key to the authentic flavor of Pad Kra Pao.
- Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your heat preference.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the basil; it should be just wilted for the best flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Serve with a fried egg on top for an extra treat!
FAQs
What is Pad Kra Pao?
Pad Kra Pao is a Thai dish made from stir-fried meat with fresh basil and spices, commonly served over rice.
Can I make Pad Kra Pao vegetarian?
Yes, you can use tofu or a mix of vegetables as a substitute for meat in this recipe.
What type of basil should I use?
Use Thai basil for the best flavor, as it has a unique taste that differs from regular basil.
Is Pad Kra Pao spicy?
The dish can be spicy, depending on the amount of Bird’s eye chili you use. You can adjust the heat to your liking!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pad Kra Pao ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.
What can I serve with Pad Kra Pao?
Pad Kra Pao is traditionally served with jasmine rice and is often topped with a fried egg.
How long does it take to cook Pad Kra Pao?
The entire cooking process takes about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal option.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and sugar as a substitute.
Why is Pad Kra Pao so popular?
Pad Kra Pao is popular because of its delicious flavors, easy preparation, and the ability to customize it to individual tastes.
Now that you know how to make this flavorful dish, it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into cooking Pad Kra Pao. Enjoy the incredible flavors of Thai cuisine right in your home!
