This recipe transports you to the heart of Thailand with its vibrant flavors and aromatic fragrance. Stir-fried minced pork with holy basil (Pad Krapao Moo) is a beloved national dish, known for its quick preparation and explosive taste. The combination of savory minced pork, fragrant holy basil, fiery chilies, and a touch of sweetness creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a dish perfect for a weeknight meal, satisfying yet surprisingly easy to execute. The key lies in the balance of flavors and the quick, high-heat stir-fry technique.
This authentic Pad Krapao Moo recipe will guide you through every step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of textures and flavors. We’ll uncover the secrets to achieving that irresistible wok hei, that smoky char that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide to creating this incredible stir-fry.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Pan
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chili: 7-8 pieces
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves
- Holy Basil leaves
- Bamboo shoots
- Pork loin
- Oyster sauce
- Fish sauce
- Sugar
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Pound chili and garlic until fine.
- Wash and pick holy basil leaves.
- Boil bamboo shoots with 2 teaspoons of salt for 5-10 minutes, then wash and drain.
- Mince the pork loin.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Pork
- Heat oil in a pan, add pounded chili and garlic, stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add minced pork and stir-fry until cooked.
Step 3. Add Vegetables and Seasoning
- Add bamboo shoots and stir-fry.
- Add oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.
- Add holy basil leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
Step 4. Serve
- Turn off heat and serve.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spiciness level.
- The recipe uses a specific type of basil with large leaves. Adjust the amount based on your basil.
- The taste relies on oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar; no need for additional seasoning.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the holy basil?
While holy basil is key to the authentic flavor, you can try Thai basil as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. What if I don't have a wok?
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan will work just fine. Just make sure it gets hot enough to properly sear the meat.
So there you have it – Mom's authentic Stir-fried Minced Pork with Holy Basil, a dish bursting with flavor and ready in minutes. This recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Thai cuisine. Enjoy this flavorful journey to Thailand, right from your own kitchen!