Thai Basil Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Basil Beef, also known as Pad Gra Prow, is a bold and flavorful stir-fry dish that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender beef, fragrant Thai basil, and a rich umami-packed sauce creates an irresistible meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for a quick and delicious dinner, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or thinly sliced beef
• Thai basil leaves
• Garlic, minced
• Red chili peppers, sliced
• Onion, sliced
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Fish sauce
• Brown sugar
• Vegetable oil
• Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
• Fried egg (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili peppers, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the ground or sliced beef, breaking it apart and cooking until browned.
4. Stir in the onion and continue cooking until softened.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar, stirring well to coat the beef evenly.
6. Add the Thai basil leaves and toss until they wilt, about 1 minute.
7. Remove from heat and serve immediately over jasmine rice, optionally topped with a fried egg.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Try this dish with ground chicken, pork, or tofu for a different take.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chili peppers, or use milder varieties.
• Sauce Adjustments: For a slightly sweeter taste, add a touch more brown sugar; for more umami, increase the fish sauce.
• Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, green beans, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How spicy is Thai Basil Beef?

The spice level depends on the type and number of chili peppers used. You can adjust it to your preference.

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?

While Thai basil has a unique peppery and slightly anise-like flavor, you can substitute regular basil if necessary. However, the taste will be slightly different.

What kind of beef is best for this recipe?

Ground beef is commonly used for ease, but thinly sliced flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye also work well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute tofu or a plant-based meat alternative for the beef and use a vegetarian oyster sauce.

What can I serve with Thai Basil Beef?

It pairs well with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables complements the meal.

Do I have to use fish sauce?

Fish sauce adds depth of flavor, but if you prefer, you can replace it with extra soy sauce or tamari.

How do I prevent the basil from wilting too much?

Add the basil at the very end of cooking and toss it quickly with the beef before removing from heat.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients, but cook in batches to ensure even browning of the beef.

What other herbs can I use?

If you don’t have Thai basil, you can try a mix of regular basil and mint for a similar flavor profile.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring all sauces are labeled gluten-free.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings authentic Thai flavors right to your kitchen. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it makes a perfect weeknight meal. Serve it with jasmine rice and a fried egg for a complete, restaurant-quality experience at home. Enjoy the bold taste and aromatic appeal of this delicious dish!

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