Craving the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine but sticking to your ketogenic diet? Look no further than Keto Pad Kra Pao! This delicious adaptation of the classic Thai basil pork stir-fry is packed with savory umami, spicy chili heat, and the fragrant aroma of holy basil, all without the carb-heavy additions of traditional recipes. We’ve swapped out the usual rice for a low-carb alternative, allowing you to enjoy this beloved dish guilt-free. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's both satisfying and keto-friendly.
This recipe simplifies the traditional Pad Kra Pao, making it accessible for even beginner cooks. We'll guide you through every step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and savory. Ready to experience the magic of Keto Pad Kra Pao? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Minced pork
- Garlic
- Red chilies
- Thai basil
- Coconut cooking oil: 3 tablespoons (adjust as needed)
- Fish sauce: a splash
- Oyster sauce: some
- Sweetener (optional)
- Conjac rice or cauliflower rice
- Eggs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Aromatics and Cook Pork
- Crush garlic and remove some skin.
- Heat coconut oil in a frying pan.
- Add chilies and garlic to the hot oil; stir-fry until fragrant and slightly browned.
- Add minced pork and stir-fry until browned, allowing some caramelization for better flavor.
Step 2. Season and Finish the Stir-Fry
- Wash Thai basil leaves thoroughly.
- Add fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sweetener (to taste) to the pork mixture.
- Stir in the Thai basil leaves.
Step 3. Prepare Sides (Optional)
- Heat conjac rice (or cauliflower rice) lightly.
- Fry eggs (optional).
Step 4. Serve
- Serve Pad Kra Pao over the rice, topped with a fried egg (optional).
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chilies to control the spiciness.
- Reduce the amount of oil if you are watching your calorie intake.
- Use keto-friendly sauces if needed for strict keto adherence.
- Conjac rice is a great low-carb alternative to regular rice.
- For a crispier egg, fry it at a high temperature.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different protein in Keto Pad Kra Pao?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or even ground beef work well as substitutes for pork.
2. What can I use instead of cauliflower rice?
Other low-carb alternatives include shirataki noodles, zucchini noodles, or even just omitting the rice altogether.
3. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chilies used. Start with less and add more to your preference.
This Keto Pad Kra Pao recipe offers a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of Thailand while adhering to your ketogenic diet. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make it perfect for a weeknight meal. So, fire up your wok and experience the vibrant taste of this low-carb culinary delight!