Pad Krapow Pla, or stir-fried fish balls with holy basil, is a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that's surprisingly quick and easy to make at home. This simple yet satisfying recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, combining the bouncy chewiness of fish balls with the aromatic punch of holy basil and a touch of fiery chili. It's a perfect weeknight meal, offering a delicious departure from routine dinners while requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time. The intense aroma alone is enough to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a bustling Thai street food stall.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times – this dish is all about simplicity and bold flavor. We’ll guide you through each step, from expertly prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and fragrant. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Thailand? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delicious Pad Krapow Pla together.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Wok or frying pan
Ingredients
- Fish balls: 500 grams
- Holy basil leaves
- Dried chilies: 10 pieces (adjust to taste)
- Garlic: 1 head (Thai garlic preferred)
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sweet soy sauce: a little
- Fish sauce: a little
- White sugar: a pinch (optional)
- Vegetable oil: a little
- Water: moderate amount
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatics and Sauce
- Pound the chilies and garlic using a mortar and pestle.
- Heat a little vegetable oil in a wok or frying pan. Stir-fry the pounded chilies and garlic until fragrant.
- Add oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and fish sauce.
- Add a pinch of white sugar (optional).
Step 2. Cook the Fish Balls
- Add a moderate amount of water.
- Add the fish balls to the wok and stir-fry in the sauce until cooked and the water reduces.
Step 3. Add Chili and Herbs
- Add young chili peppers (green or red).
- Finish with holy basil leaves.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- To check if fish balls are fresh, look for the absence of water and mucus in the packaging. Old fish balls will have a sour taste.
- Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.
- If using chili peppers instead of dried chilies, reduce the amount accordingly.
- The amount of water added should be enough to cook the fish balls without making the dish too watery.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the fish balls?
Yes! You can use other protein sources like shrimp, chicken, or even tofu. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have fresh holy basil?
Dried holy basil can be used, but the flavor will be slightly less intense. Use about half the amount called for in the recipe.
3. How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili or omit it entirely. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice at the end to balance the flavors.
So there you have it – a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful Pad Krapow Pla that's sure to become a new weeknight favorite. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy the delicious results of your Thai cooking adventure!