Spicy Thai Basil Stir-fry: Easy Weeknight Recipe

Updated at: 10/01/2025

Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this Spicy Thai Basil Stir-fry! This recipe delivers the authentic tastes of Thailand, bursting with the fragrant aroma of basil, the subtle sweetness of bell peppers, and a fiery kick from chili flakes. It's the perfect weeknight dinner solution when you're short on time but still want a healthy and satisfying meal. Forget takeout – this recipe is easy enough for even beginner cooks to master, and the results are restaurant-worthy.

We'll use readily available ingredients to create a dish packed with fresh flavors and textures. From perfectly tender chicken or tofu to vibrant vegetables, every bite is a delightful explosion of taste. Ready to experience the deliciousness? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this incredibly simple yet satisfying Spicy Thai Basil Stir-fry.

Tools Needed

  • Mortar and pestle
  • Knife
  • Frying pan

Ingredients

  • Garlic: 4-5 cloves
  • Small chili (e.g., bird's eye chili): 3
  • Large chili (e.g., mild chili): 3, roughly chopped
  • Zucchini
  • Pork and beef (or other protein)
  • Oyster sauce
  • Fish sauce (or soy sauce)
  • Sugar
  • Thai and Italian basil
  • Oil
  • Brown rice (or other rice/noodles)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce

  • Mince garlic and small chilies using a mortar and pestle. Roughly chop the large chilies.
  • Cut zucchini into uneven chunks for better searing.
  • Prepare your protein (pork and beef mix used in the example).
  • Combine oyster sauce, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sugar for the stir-fry sauce.
Mince garlic and small chilies using a mortar and pestle. Roughly chop the large chilies.Prepare your protein (pork and beef mix used in the example).Combine oyster sauce, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sugar for the stir-fry sauce.
Prepare Ingredients and Sauce

Step 2. Stir-fry the Meat and Vegetables

  • Heat oil in a pan. Add the chili and garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add the meat to the pan and stir-fry until cooked.
  • Add zucchini and stir-fry until slightly softened.
Heat oil in a pan. Add the chili and garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.Add the meat to the pan and stir-fry until cooked.Add zucchini and stir-fry until slightly softened.
Stir-fry the Meat and Vegetables

Step 3. Add Sauce and Herbs

  • Pour the stir-fry sauce over the ingredients and toss to combine.
  • Add Thai and Italian basil and stir briefly.
Pour the stir-fry sauce over the ingredients and toss to combine.
Add Sauce and Herbs

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve over brown rice (or other preferred starch).
Serve over brown rice (or other preferred starch).
Serve

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

Tips

  • Less is more when it comes to stir-fries. Don't overcrowd the pan or use too many ingredients.
  • Cut vegetables into uneven shapes to maximize surface area and ensure even cooking.
  • Use a variety of chilies for a balanced level of spice and color.
  • Basil adds a unique Thai accent. Use it generously.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use different protein in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, pork, or even chickpeas work well as substitutes for chicken or tofu.

2. How can I adjust the spice level?

Start with less chili flakes and add more to taste. If you prefer less heat, omit them entirely or use a milder chili.


This Spicy Thai Basil Stir-fry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss of complicated cooking. Its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time make it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!