Craving a vibrant and flavorful explosion in your mouth? Then look no further than this incredibly delicious Thai stir-fried beef with dried chili and basil. This dish is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by bold Thai flavors. The fragrant basil, the satisfying crunch of vegetables, and the tender, succulent beef combine to create a culinary experience that's both quick to prepare and incredibly rewarding. Imagine the aromatic steam rising from a plate piled high with perfectly cooked beef, glistening with a rich, savory sauce.
The key to this recipe lies in the balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour notes – a hallmark of authentic Thai cooking. This perfectly balanced stir-fry is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. To learn how to recreate this tantalizing Thai treat at home, follow the detailed step-by-step instructions in the recipe below.
Tools Needed
- Wok or frying pan
Ingredients
- Beef
- Dried chilies
- Basil leaves
- Soy sauce
- Fish sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sugar
- Garlic
- Cooking oil
- Other seasonings (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Cook the Beef
- Prepare the beef by slicing it into thin strips. Marinate with soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar and garlic.
- Heat the cooking oil in a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until cooked through but still tender.
Step 2. Add the Chili
- Add dried chilies and stir-fry briefly.
Step 3. Finish with Basil and Seasoning
- Stir in basil leaves. Season with additional soy sauce, fish sauce or sugar to taste.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use thin slices of beef for faster and even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of dried chilies according to your spice preference.
- Add the basil leaves at the end to preserve their freshness and aroma.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?
Yes! Chicken, pork, or even tofu work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used, but use about half the amount. The flavor will be slightly different.
3. How can I control the spice level?
Start with fewer chilies and add more to taste. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder dish.
This Thai stir-fried beef with chili and basil is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The vibrant flavors and textures are sure to impress your friends and family, leaving them wanting more. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!