Basil Beef Thai Recipe
Introduction
Pad Kra Pao, more commonly known as basil beef, is a cornerstone of Thai street food and home cooking. This dish, celebrated for its bold flavors and quick preparation, features stir-fried ground beef with holy basil, chilies, garlic, and a savory-sweet sauce. The appeal lies in its balance of heat, aroma, and satisfying protein, making it a popular choice for a fast and flavorful meal globally. The simplicity of the recipe contributes to its widespread adoption, allowing variations based on ingredient availability and personal preferences.
Ingredients
Beef: 1 pound ground beef (substitute with chicken, pork, tofu, or mushrooms for vegetarian options). For optimal flavor, use beef with a moderate fat content. Holy Basil: 1-2 cups fresh holy basil leaves (Thai basil can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different). Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced. Thai Chilies: 2-4, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference; bird’s eye chilies are traditionally used). Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (light or regular). Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, adds umami; omit for vegetarian versions and substitute with soy sauce). Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, adds sweetness and richness; vegetarian oyster sauce can be found). Sugar: 1 teaspoon (brown or white). Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons. Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed, for serving). Cooked Rice: For serving. Optional: Fried egg (adds a rich and creamy element).
Preparation Steps
The key to successful basil beef is having all ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process, as it cooks very quickly. 1. Prepare the Beef: If using frozen ground beef, ensure it’s completely thawed. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. 2. Prepare the Aromatics: Mince the garlic and finely chop the Thai chilies. Combine them into a paste using a mortar and pestle for a more intense flavor. 3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), oyster sauce (if using), and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. 4. Prepare the Basil: Wash the holy basil leaves and gently pat them dry. Pluck the leaves from the stems, discarding the stems. Tip: For a more flavorful dish, marinate the ground beef with a teaspoon of soy sauce and a pinch of pepper for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps the beef absorb the flavors and stay tender.
Cooking Instructions
This recipe utilizes the stir-frying technique, which requires high heat and quick movements to achieve the desired texture and flavor. 1. Heat the Wok: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface. 2. Saut the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 15-30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. 3. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the wok. Break it up with a spatula and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. 4. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the beef and thicken slightly. 5. Incorporate the Basil: Add the holy basil leaves to the wok. Stir-fry for just a few seconds, until the basil wilts and releases its aroma. Avoid overcooking the basil, as it can become bitter. 6. Serve Immediately: Remove the wok from the heat and serve the basil beef immediately over cooked rice. Recommended Times and Temperatures: Use high heat for stir-frying to ensure the beef browns properly and the flavors meld together quickly. The entire cooking process should take about 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Basil beef is traditionally served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. A fried egg (kai dao) is a popular addition, adding a creamy richness that complements the savory dish. Traditional Accompaniments: Steamed jasmine rice. Side Dishes: A simple cucumber salad or a side of stir-fried vegetables. Garnishes: A wedge of lime to squeeze over the dish before serving. Additional sliced chilies for extra heat. Plating Ideas: Serve the basil beef in a bowl over rice, topped with a fried egg (if desired). Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil and a lime wedge.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve the desired texture and flavor. Ensure the wok or skillet is very hot before adding the ingredients. Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the wok, which can lower the temperature and result in steamed rather than stir-fried beef. Don’t Overcook the Basil: Add the basil at the very end of the cooking process and stir-fry for only a few seconds, just until it wilts. Overcooking the basil can make it bitter. Adjust the Spice Level: The heat level of the dish can be adjusted by using more or fewer chilies. Remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder flavor. Balance the Flavors: Taste the sauce before adding it to the beef and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve a balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors. Common Mistake: Using too much oil. Basil beef shouldn’t be swimming in oil. The oil is primarily for sauteing and preventing sticking.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Basil beef, a vibrant and flavorful dish, offers a taste of Thailand in the convenience of one’s kitchen. Its aromatic herbs and spices combined with the savory beef delivers a satisfying and culturally-rich dining experience. The adaptable nature of this recipe allows home cooks to adjust ingredients based on their preferences and dietary restrictions, making it a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire. Unleash the inner chef and create this amazing basil beef recipe at home and then explore more exciting cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.
