Basil Beef Recipe Thai

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Introduction

Pad Kra Pao, commonly known as “basil beef recipe thai,” is a beloved staple of Thai cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and quick preparation. This stir-fried dish features tender beef, aromatic Thai basil, chilies, garlic, and a savory-sweet sauce. Its popularity stems from its accessibility, affordability, and ability to deliver a powerful and satisfying meal, often enjoyed as a quick lunch or dinner option throughout Thailand and beyond. The dish’s simplicity makes it a favorite among both street food vendors and home cooks.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for authentic basil beef include:
Beef: 1 pound, thinly sliced (sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak work well). For a leaner option, ground beef can be substituted.
Thai Basil: 2 cups, packed (essential for the unique flavor; Italian basil is a less ideal but acceptable substitute).
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
Thai Chilies: 2-4, finely chopped (adjust to preference for heat). Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute.
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons.
Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon (adds umami richness). A vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms is a suitable alternative.
Fish Sauce: 1 teaspoon (provides a salty, savory depth). Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but the flavor profile will differ.
Sugar: 1 teaspoon (balances the savory flavors). Palm sugar or brown sugar can also be used.
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons, for stir-frying.
Optional: 1/2 Onion sliced, fried egg for topping.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful basil beef dish:
1. Beef Preparation: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Consider partially freezing the beef for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier.
2. Chili and Garlic Paste: Use a mortar and pestle to pound the garlic and chilies into a coarse paste. This releases their essential oils and enhances flavor. Alternatively, finely mince them.
3. Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Basil Preparation: Wash and dry the Thai basil. Pluck the leaves from the stems. Add the basil at the end to keep its color and aroma.
5. Onion Preparation (optional): Slice the onion thinly and set aside.
Marinating the beef for 15-20 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, a little cornstarch, and a drizzle of oil can further tenderize the meat.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious basil beef stir-fry:
1. Heat the wok: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it shimmers.
2. Saut garlic and chilies: Add the garlic-chili paste and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook the beef: Add the sliced beef and stir-fry quickly over high heat until it is browned and cooked through. This should only take 2-3 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices. Dont overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
4. Add Onions(Optional): Add onions to the wok and saute until translucent.
5. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and stir-fry for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beef evenly.
6. Incorporate the basil: Remove the wok from the heat. Add the Thai basil leaves and stir gently until they are wilted and fragrant. The residual heat will cook the basil.
7. Serve immediately: Transfer the basil beef to a serving plate and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Basil beef is traditionally served with:
Steamed Rice: Jasmine rice is the classic accompaniment.
Fried Egg (Kai Dao): A crispy-edged fried egg placed on top of the rice and beef adds richness and texture.
Cucumber Slices: Fresh cucumber slices provide a cooling contrast to the spicy and savory flavors.
Lime Wedge: A wedge of lime to squeeze over the dish adds brightness.
The dish can also be served with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to elevate basil beef:
High Heat is Key: Use high heat for stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the beef and prevent it from becoming watery.
Dont Overcook the Beef: Overcooked beef will be tough. Cook it quickly over high heat until just done.
Use Fresh Thai Basil: Fresh Thai basil is essential for the authentic flavor. Do not overcook it; add it at the very end.
Adjust Chili to Taste: The amount of chili can be adjusted according to individual heat preference.
Avoid Overcrowding the Wok: Cook the beef in batches to ensure even browning.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding it to the beef and adjust the seasoning as needed. It might require more fish sauce or sugar depending on your preference.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the “basil beef recipe thai” unlocks a world of flavorful possibilities, offering a taste of authentic Thai cuisine in the comfort of the home. The dish’s harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and spicy notes, coupled with its ease of preparation, makes it a compelling choice for any home cook. Its adaptability allows for personalization to suit various palates and dietary needs, ensuring it remains a versatile staple. Embark on a culinary adventure today, recreating this classic dish and exploring further cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com for more inspiration and culinary expertise.