Crispy Pork Belly Pad Krapao: Easy Thai Recipe

Pad Krapao Moo Grob, or crispy pork belly stir-fry with holy basil, is a beloved Thai dish bursting with flavour and satisfying textures. The irresistible combination of intensely crispy pork belly, fragrant holy basil, fiery chilies, and savory garlic sauce creates a culinary experience that's both comforting and exciting. This isn't your average stir-fry; the key lies in achieving that perfect balance of crunchy pork and vibrant, fresh ingredients. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the pork belly contrasting with the soft, slightly spicy stir-fry – a true taste sensation.

This recipe unlocks the secret to achieving perfectly crispy pork belly, a crucial element for an authentic Pad Krapao Moo Grob. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the pork to mastering the final stir-fry, ensuring a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Ready to embark on this delicious culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Tools Needed

  • Wok or large frying pan

Ingredients

  • Crispy Pork Belly
  • Holy Basil
  • Garlic
  • Chili
  • Soy Sauce
  • Fish Sauce
  • Oyster Sauce
  • Sugar
  • Cooking Oil
  • Rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Pork Belly

  • Chop garlic, chili, and holy basil. Prepare crispy pork belly.
Prepare ingredients: Chop garlic, chili, and holy basil. Prepare crispy pork belly.
Prepare Ingredients and Pork Belly

Step 2. Stir-fry Aromatics and Pork Belly

  • Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add garlic and chili, stir-fry until fragrant.
  • Add crispy pork belly and stir-fry for a few minutes.
Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.Add garlic and chili, stir-fry until fragrant.Add crispy pork belly and stir-fry for a few minutes.
Stir-fry Aromatics and Pork Belly

Step 3. Add Sauce and Seasoning

  • Add soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
Add soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
Add Sauce and Seasoning

Step 4. Finish with Basil and Serve

  • Add holy basil and stir-fry until wilted.
  • Serve hot with rice.
Add holy basil and stir-fry until wilted.Serve hot with rice.
Finish with Basil and Serve

Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)

Tips

  • Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
  • Ensure the pork belly is crispy before adding it to the wok.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork belly?

While pork belly gives the best crispy texture, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even pork loin, though the crispiness might be less pronounced. You'll need to adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. What if I don't have fresh holy basil?

Dried holy basil can be used as a substitute, but the flavour will be slightly less intense. You can also experiment with Thai basil or even regular basil in a pinch.

3. How do I make the pork belly extra crispy?

Ensure the pork belly is completely dry before cooking. A high cooking temperature and proper drying time are crucial for achieving maximum crispiness. You can also pat the pork dry with paper towels after cooking to remove excess oil.


This Pad Krapao Moo Grob recipe delivers a flavour explosion in every bite, showcasing the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and spicy. With a little practice, you'll be mastering this iconic Thai dish and impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and unforgettable taste of this easy-to-make yet incredibly rewarding recipe!