Pad Prik King (Stir-Fried Pork with Chili Paste)
Introduction
Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Thai cuisine? Today, we’re going to explore a tasty dish called Pad Prik King, which translates to Stir-Fried Pork with Chili Paste. This dish is a favorite among many for its *bold flavors* and *spicy kick*. Pad Prik King has its roots in Thailand, where food is not just about eating but also about bringing people together. This dish is popular because it combines tender pork with a rich, spicy sauce, making it an appealing option for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, which means you can enjoy a fantastic home-cooked meal in no time!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork (sliced thin) | 500 grams |
| Green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces) | 200 grams |
| Red chili paste | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar (brown sugar works best) | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh basil (optional) | 1 handful |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own Pad Prik King:
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by slicing the pork thinly and cutting the green beans into 1-inch pieces. Have everything ready to go!
- Heat the oil: In a large frying pan or wok, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add pork: Next, add the sliced pork. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through and no longer pink.
- Mix in green beans: Add the green beans to the pan and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add chili paste: Stir in the red chili paste, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors blend.
- Finish with basil: If you’re using fresh basil, add it at the end and stir well. This will give your dish a lovely aroma!
- Serve: Plate your Pad Prik King and enjoy it hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Fats | 22g | 34% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 2g | 2% |
Tips and Tricks
– To make your dish extra spicy, feel free to add more chili paste or even fresh chili peppers!
– If you’re not a fan of pork, you can substitute it with chicken or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
– Avoid overcooking the green beans — they should remain slightly crunchy for the best texture.
– Make sure to taste the sauce before serving. You can always adjust the flavors with more fish sauce or sugar as needed.
FAQs
What is Pad Prik King?
Pad Prik King is a Thai stir-fry dish made with pork, green beans, and a flavorful red chili paste that gives it a spicy kick.
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken for pork in this recipe. It will taste just as delicious!
Is Pad Prik King spicy?
Yes, it does have a spicy flavor due to the red chili paste. You can adjust the spice level by using less paste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork with tofu and use vegetarian fish sauce to keep it plant-based.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Pad Prik King in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
What should I serve with Pad Prik King?
Pad Prik King is best served with steamed rice or noodles. A side of fresh vegetables or a light salad would also complement the dish nicely.
Can I make this in advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Just stir-fry right before you’re ready to eat!
How long does it take to make?
From start to finish, Pad Prik King takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
What if I don’t have red chili paste?
If you don’t have red chili paste, you can make a quick substitute using a mix of chili powder, minced garlic, and a bit of soy sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible, so feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Now that you have all the details, grab your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this authentic Thai favorite! Happy cooking!
