How to Make Thai Basil Pork (Pad Krapow Moo)

Thai Basil Pork, known as Pad Krapow Moo, is a beloved Thai dish that combines fragrant herbs, savory pork, and aromatic spices. It is quick to prepare and full of flavor, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. Follow this easy guide to create a delicious Pad Krapow Moo that delights your taste buds.

Ingredients for Thai Basil Pork

  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
  • Steamed jasmine rice, for serving
  • Fried egg, for topping (optional)

Instructions to Make Pad Krapow Moo

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the chilies, and measure out the sauces. Fresh Thai basil is essential for the signature flavor of the dish.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking.
  3. Add Garlic and Chilies: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
  4. Add Ground Pork: Increase the heat to high and add the ground pork to the skillet. Break the meat apart using a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add Sauces and Sugar: Once the pork is cooked thoroughly, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated with the sauces.
  6. Incorporate Vegetables: If using bell peppers, add them at this stage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
  7. Add Thai Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic flavor.
  8. Serve: Serve your Thai Basil Pork over steamed jasmine rice. For an authentic touch, top with a fried egg. Enjoy your homemade Pad Krapow Moo!

Tips for the Perfect Pad Krapow Moo

To elevate your Pad Krapow Moo, consider these tips:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is crucial for the authenticity and flavor. If unavailable, substitute with regular basil, but expect a slight difference in taste.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: The spiciness can be modified by adding more or fewer bird’s eye chilies. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chilies.
  • Try Different Proteins: While ground pork is traditional, you can also use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • Quick Cooking: Pad Krapow Moo is known for being a quick-cooking dish. Have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

With this simple recipe and some practice, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Pad Krapow Moo right at home. Impress your friends and family with your culinary skills and bring a taste of Thailand to your dining table!