How to Make Thai Meat with Basil and Chili
Thai Meat with Basil and Chili, known as "Pad Krapow," is a delicious and aromatic dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. This recipe combines ground meat, fresh basil, and fiery chilies for an irresistible meal that is quick and easy to prepare. Follow these steps to make your own authentic Thai Meat with Basil and Chili at home.
Ingredients Required
- 400g ground meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Optional: fried egg for topping
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Mince the garlic and chop the Thai bird chilies. If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the chilies. Wash and dry the Thai basil leaves and set them aside.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the garlic and chopped chilies to avoid burning them.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and chilies to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic turn brown, as this can make the dish taste bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Meat
Next, add the ground meat to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Sauté until the meat is fully cooked and no pink remains, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Sauces and Seasoning
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well, allowing the sauces to coat the meat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Incorporate Thai Basil
Finally, add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for another minute, just until the basil wilts. This will enhance the flavor of your dish and give it a lovely aroma.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Thai Meat with Basil and Chili over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. For an authentic touch, you can top each serving with a fried egg.
Tips for the Perfect Thai Meat with Basil and Chili
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly the Thai basil and chilies.
- Adjust the amount of chilies based on your spice preference.
- Feel free to mix different types of meat or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
With its robust flavors and quick preparation, Thai Meat with Basil and Chili is a fantastic dish for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy this Thai classic that brings a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen!