Craving a quick, flavorful, and authentic Thai dish? Look no further than this recipe for Stir-Fried Basil with Preserved Eggs, a culinary delight that bursts with vibrant tastes and textures. The salty, creamy preserved eggs perfectly complement the fragrant basil and spicy chili, creating a harmonious blend of savory and spicy notes. This recipe is surprisingly simple to execute, even for novice cooks, utilizing readily available ingredients to deliver a restaurant-quality meal in minutes. The unique combination of ingredients offers a delightful contrast – the soft, yielding egg against the crisp-tender vegetables and fragrant basil.
This recipe is a testament to the beauty of Thai cuisine: quick preparation, maximum flavor. Get ready to experience the magic of this beloved dish as we guide you through each step of the process, transforming simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- Century eggs: 10-4
- Minced chicken: 300 grams
- Basil leaves
- Garlic: 5 cloves (Chinese garlic) or 1 head (Thai garlic)
- Dried chili peppers
- Oyster sauce
- Sugar
- Pepper
- Soy sauce (dark & light)
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Fry Century Eggs
- Crack the century eggs neatly and fry them until golden brown.
- Prepare the minced chicken.
- Pick, wash, and prepare basil leaves. (Red basil is recommended).
- Finely chop the garlic and chili peppers.
- Fry the century eggs, turning them to cook both sides. No need to coat in flour.
Step 2. Stir-fry Chicken and Season
- Heat oil in a pan. Add the fried century eggs, then add the minced chicken. Stir-fry until cooked.
- Add the chopped garlic and chili peppers. Stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce (light and dark), oyster sauce, sugar, and pepper. Stir-fry until well combined.
Step 3. Add Basil and Combine
- Add the basil leaves. Stir-fry until wilted but still vibrant green.
Step 4. Final Touches
- Add the fried century eggs and stir-fry until all ingredients are well combined. Do not overcook.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Growing your own basil is recommended for a fresher taste.
- Do not add water; keep the stir-fry dry for best results.
- Add basil leaves towards the end to maintain their color and texture.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the preserved eggs?
While preserved eggs are key to the authentic flavor, you can try soft-boiled eggs as a substitute. The flavor will be different, but it will still be a tasty dish.
2. How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness is adjustable. Use less chili if you prefer a milder dish, or add more for extra heat. Start with less and add more to taste.
3. What kind of basil should I use?
Thai basil is ideal for its distinct licorice-like flavor. If unavailable, sweet basil can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different.
This Stir-Fried Basil with Preserved Eggs and Minced Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to experience the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. The quick cooking time and simple ingredients make it perfect for a weeknight meal, yet the delicious result feels special enough for a weekend treat. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!